Padstow May Day (or 'Obby 'Oss Day) is a traditional event held annually on 1st May in Padstow. The celebration involves various festivities, including processions, dancing, singing, and performances of the "Obby 'Oss", which is believed to date back centuries.

During the Padstow May Day celebrations, the town is adorned with colourful decorations, and locals and visitors alike participate in the festivities. The highlight of the event is the appearance of the two "Obby 'Osses" named the "Old 'Oss" and the "Blue Ribbon 'Oss." There is dancing through the streets, accompanied by people playing traditional tunes on accordians to a strong beat on the drums.

The exact origins of Padstow May Day, also known as 'Obby 'Oss Day, are somewhat unclear, as is the case with many ancient traditions. However, it's widely believed to have pagan roots. It has been celebrated for generations as a way to welcome the arrival of spring and ensure good luck for the community. The event has become an important part of Padstow's cultural heritage and attracts tourists from all over the world who come to witness the unique festivities.

One theory suggests that the celebration is linked to the Celtic festival of Beltane, which marked the beginning of summer and was associated with fertility rites and rituals to ensure a good harvest. Another theory suggests it could be connected to the ancient tradition of welcoming the arrival of spring and driving away evil spirits.

The "Obby 'Oss" itself, a central figure in the festivities, is often interpreted as a symbolic representation of a fertility symbol, possibly representing a horse goddess. The tradition of parading through the streets with a horse figure is found in various forms in other cultures as well.

Over time, Padstow May Day evolved into a unique celebration with its own set of customs and rituals, blending elements of pagan tradition with Christian influences. Regardless of its precise origins, the event has become deeply ingrained in the cultural identity of Padstow and is celebrated with enthusiasm and joy by locals and visitors alike.

What are the timings of Padstow Mayday?

The timings of Padstow May Day can vary slightly from year to year and depend on specific event schedules. However, here is a general outline of the typical timings for the festivities:

The evening before Padstow May Day, often referred to as "May Eve," is a time of anticipation and preparation for the festivities that will take place the following day. While specific customs and activities may vary, there are several traditions associated with May Eve in Padstow:

Decoration of the town: In the days leading up to May Eve, the town of Padstow is decorated with colorful banners, ribbons, and greenery. Buildings may be adorned with flowers, and maypoles might be erected in preparation for the dancing that will take place on May Day.

Gathering of participants: Locals involved in the May Day celebrations may gather in the evening to finalize plans and preparations for the next day's events. This could involve coordinating procession routes, practicing traditional songs and dances, and ensuring that costumes and props are ready.

Community gatherings: May Eve may also be a time for community gatherings and socializing. Residents and visitors alike might come together for meals, drinks, and entertainment, fostering a sense of camaraderie and excitement for the upcoming festivities.

Early morning: The day often begins with preparations for the celebrations, including dressing in traditional costumes, decorating the town, and finalizing plans for the processions and other activities.

Morning: The official start of the Padstow May Day celebrations occurs in the morning, with the first processions setting off through the streets of the town. Usually the Childrens' oss makes it's appearance at 07:30 or 08:00 on one of Paddstow's residential streets outside of the old town, the Blue Ribbon oss makes it's first appearance at 10:00 from Padstow Institute and the Old oss at 11:00 from the Golden Lion.

During the day there are number of further processions from various venues across the town. These processions are accompanied by musicians playing traditional tunes on accordions, drums, and other instruments.

Dancing and Singing: As the processions move through the town, participants engage in lively dancing and singing. The atmosphere is vibrant and energetic, with locals and visitors joining in the festivities. The Osses make many appearances throughout the day from various venues, but they do not meet until much later in the day.

Public House Visits: Throughout the day, the "Obby 'Osses" and their followers visit various public houses in Padstow, where they perform traditional dances and songs. This is a chance for locals and visitors to enjoy the festivities together and share in the sense of community spirit.

Decorations: The town of Padstow is adorned with colourful decorations, including flowers (bluebells and cowslips), ribbons, and bunting. Buildings are decorated with greenery and other symbols of spring.

Midday: The morning procession continues, with participants dancing and singing through the streets. This lively atmosphere typically continues into the midday hours, with various performances and activities taking place at designated locations throughout the town.

Afternoon: There is no traditional Maypole dancing with Morris dancers as occurs in many English villages, but a coming together of the two Osses for their first time of the day at the Maypole around 18:00.

Evening: The celebrations may start to wind down in the evening, with the final processions and performances taking place before dusk. However, some events and activities may continue into the evening hours, depending on the schedule for that year.

Night: The Padstow May Day celebrations traditionally conclude with a sense of community spirit and camaraderie, as participants and spectators come together to reflect on the day's festivities and perhaps enjoy additional social gatherings or entertainment.

What songs are sung on Padstow Mayday?

During Padstow May Day celebrations, several traditional songs are sung by participants as they parade through the streets and visit various locations in the town. Some of the most well-known songs associated with Padstow May Day include:

The May Day song is sung at the beginning of Padstow May Day celebrations to signal the start of the day's festivities. The lyrics for Padstow Original 'Obby 'Oss party typically go like this:

This day I wake to greet The Day,
The gentle blossom first of May,
I wind a garland in my hair
And cast away, begone dull care!

For May it is a 'coming in
And louder shall the echo win;
A measure from this joyful day
A toast then lads to 1st of May.

For outside the "Lion" the crowds assemble,
From the mighty to the humble,
Adorned with flowers and full of delight,
Anxiously awaiting the clock to strike.

Hark! it strikes and out they come!
The old 'oss party complete with drum.
Never a spectacle more supreme
Even for our gracious Queen.

All day round the town they dance
Followed by crowds from far and near.
Always fearing the old 'oss glance
As he bolts, the crowd to clear.

But too soon the shadows creep,
The birds and flowers prepare to sleep,
May Day is drawing to a close,
One last look round and sweet repose.

What are words to the Nightgale / Farewell song?

Now fare thee well, my dearest dear,
And we'll meet again some other year,
And we'll have another May Day
And we'll have another May Day.

We'll go down to yonder old mill,
Where the streams of love forever fill,
And we'll have another May Day
And we'll have another May Day.

We'll go down to yonder old shore,
Where the waves of love forever pour,
And we'll have another May Day
And we'll have another May Day.

We'll go down to yonder old glen,
Where the love of women comes to men,
And we'll have another May Day
And we'll have another May Day.

We'll go down to yonder old dell,
Where the love of women casts its spell,
And we'll have another May Day
And we'll have another May Day.

We'll go down to yonder old lea,
Where the love of women comes to me,
And we'll have another May Day
And we'll have another May Day.

These verses capture the wistful and nostalgic tone of the song, often sung as a farewell or closing piece during the Padstow May Day celebrations.

Where is the stable of the Blue Ribbon oss?

The Blue Ribbon 'Oss, also known as the Peace 'Oss, is one of the two main hobby horses (osses) that participate in the Padstow May Day celebrations in Cornwall, England. The Blue Ribbon 'Oss is associated with one of the two factions that take part in the festivities, with the other being the Old 'Oss. While the exact "home" of the Blue Ribbon 'Oss may not be a physical location, it is traditionally associated with the Harbour area of Padstow. During the May Day celebrations, the Blue Ribbon 'Oss emerges from its "stable" or starting point within the town and joins the procession through the streets, dancing and interacting with the crowd. The Padstow May Day celebrations are deeply rooted in the local community, and the Blue Ribbon 'Oss, like the Old 'Oss, is an important symbol of the town's cultural heritage. While it doesn't have a fixed physical residence, the Blue Ribbon 'Oss is an integral part of the festivities and is cherished by locals and visitors alike.

Where is the stable of the Old oss?

The Padstow Old 'Oss, also known simply as the Old 'Oss, is one of the two main hobby horses (osses) that participate in the Padstow May Day celebrations in Cornwall, England. The Old 'Oss is associated with one of the two factions that take part in the festivities, with the other being the Blue Ribbon 'Oss. The "home" of the Padstow Old 'Oss is traditionally located in the area of the town known as "The Golden Lion," a historic pub in Padstow. The Old 'Oss emerges from its "stable" or starting point within the Golden Lion pub at the beginning of the May Day celebrations. From there, it joins the procession through the streets, dancing and interacting with the crowd. The Padstow May Day celebrations are deeply rooted in the local community, and the Old 'Oss holds a special significance as a symbol of the town's cultural heritage. While it doesn't have a fixed physical residence outside of the May Day festivities, the Golden Lion pub serves as its traditional starting point, making it an important landmark in the event's proceedings.

What is Padstow Mayday?

Padstow May Day (or 'Obby 'Oss Day) is a traditional event held annually on May 1st in Padstow, Cornwall, United Kingdom. The celebration involves various festivities, including processions, dancing, singing, and the performance of the "Obby 'Oss" (Hobby Horse), which is a unique custom believed to date back centuries. During the Padstow May Day celebrations, the town is adorned with colorful decorations, and locals and visitors alike participate in the festivities. The highlight of the event is the appearance of the two "Obby 'Osses" named the "Old 'Oss" and the "Blue Ribbon 'Oss." These are horse-shaped costumes worn by individuals who dance through the streets, accompanied by musicians playing traditional tunes. The exact origins of Padstow May Day are uncertain, but it is thought to have pagan roots and has been celebrated for generations as a way to welcome the arrival of spring and ensure good luck for the community. The event has become an important part of Padstow's cultural heritage and attracts tourists from all over the world who come to witness the unique festivities.

What are the origins of Padstow Mayday

The exact origins of Padstow May Day, also known as 'Obby 'Oss Day, are somewhat unclear, as is the case with many ancient traditions. However, it's widely believed to have pagan roots, possibly dating back centuries. One theory suggests that the celebration is linked to the Celtic festival of Beltane, which marked the beginning of summer and was associated with fertility rites and rituals to ensure a good harvest. Another theory suggests it could be connected to the ancient tradition of welcoming the arrival of spring and driving away evil spirits. The "Obby 'Oss" itself, a central figure in the festivities, is often interpreted as a symbolic representation of a fertility symbol, possibly representing a horse goddess. The tradition of parading through the streets with a horse figure is found in various forms in other cultures as well. Over time, Padstow May Day evolved into a unique celebration with its own set of customs and rituals, blending elements of pagan tradition with Christian influences. Regardless of its precise origins, the event has become deeply ingrained in the cultural identity of Padstow and is celebrated with enthusiasm and joy by locals and visitors alike.

How is Padstow Mayday celebrated?

Padstow May Day, or 'Obby 'Oss Day, is celebrated with a series of unique and colorful traditions that have been passed down through generations. Here's an overview of how the day is typically celebrated: Processions: The day begins early in the morning with processions through the streets of Padstow. There are two main processions, each associated with a different "Obby 'Oss" (Hobby Horse) - the "Old 'Oss" and the "Blue Ribbon 'Oss." These processions are accompanied by musicians playing traditional tunes on accordions, drums, and other instruments. Dancing and Singing: As the processions move through the town, participants engage in lively dancing and singing. The atmosphere is vibrant and energetic, with locals and visitors joining in the festivities. Maypole Dancing: Maypole dancing is often part of the celebration, where ribbons attached to a tall pole are woven together by dancers in intricate patterns. This tradition is a symbol of fertility and the coming of spring. Public House Visits: Throughout the day, the "Obby 'Osses" and their followers visit various public houses in Padstow, where they perform traditional dances and songs. This is a chance for locals and visitors to enjoy the festivities together and share in the sense of community spirit. Decorations: The town of Padstow is adorned with colorful decorations, including flowers, ribbons, and bunting. Buildings are often decorated with greenery and other symbols of spring. Crowning of the May Queen: In some years, a May Queen may be crowned as part of the celebrations. The May Queen, often a young girl chosen from the local community, symbolizes youth, fertility, and the renewal of life. Overall, Padstow May Day is a joyous and lively celebration that brings together people of all ages to welcome the arrival of spring and celebrate the unique cultural heritage of the town.

What songs are sung on Padstow Mayday?

During Padstow May Day celebrations, several traditional songs are sung by participants as they parade through the streets and visit various locations in the town. Some of the most well-known songs associated with Padstow May Day include: "Padstow May Song" (commonly known as "Padstow Farewell" or "The Nightingale"): This is perhaps the most iconic song associated with the Padstow May Day festivities. It is sung during the processions and embodies the spirit of the event. "Morning Song": This song is often sung at the beginning of the day's celebrations, signaling the start of the festivities and welcoming the arrival of spring. "The Nightingale": This song is also known as "Sweet Nightingale" or "Pleasant and Delightful." It is a traditional folk song that is often sung during Padstow May Day celebrations. "The May Song": This song celebrates the month of May and is often sung during May Day festivities across the UK, including in Padstow. "Trelawny": While not specific to Padstow May Day, "Trelawny" is a popular Cornish anthem that celebrates Cornish identity and pride. It may be sung during the celebrations as a nod to Cornwall's heritage. These songs, along with others, contribute to the festive atmosphere of Padstow May Day and help to create a sense of community and tradition among participants and spectators alike.

What are the words to the Padstow May song?

The Padstow May Song, also known as "Padstow Farewell" or "The Nightingale," is a traditional folk song associated with the May Day celebrations in Padstow, Cornwall. The lyrics vary slightly depending on the version being sung, but here are the commonly known verses: Oh! Where be going, I can't tell But to the maypole, pipers play Oh! I'll farewell my own true love And all the rest for another day And we were up long before the day-o To welcome in the summer, to welcome in the May-o For summer is a-coming in And winter's gone away-o Unite and unite and let us all unite For summer is a-coming and the winter's gone to flight And we'll all go together in the merry green wood To chase the wild boar and the wily brown hare Unite and unite and let us all unite For summer is a-coming and the winter's gone to flight And we'll all go together in the merry green wood To chase the wild boar and the wily brown hare I danced all night and I danced all day Oh! Give me a penny and I'll go away I danced round the tree and I danced on the ground Oh! It's little Sir John with his natty greyhound Oh! Where be going, I can't tell But to the maypole, pipers play Oh! I'll farewell my own true love And all the rest for another day These are just some of the verses commonly sung during Padstow May Day celebrations. The song is usually accompanied by lively music and dancing as participants parade through the streets of Padstow.

What are the words to the Padstow morning song?

The Padstow Morning Song, also known as "The Morning Song" or "Morning Carillon," is often sung at the beginning of Padstow May Day celebrations to signal the start of the day's festivities. The lyrics typically go like this: Wake up, wake up, you sleepy-head It's dawning now, the day's no longer dead And yonder waits the world with joyous tread To greet the dawn and welcome in the May-o This song, with its cheerful and uplifting tone, sets the mood for the day's celebrations and encourages everyone to wake up and join in the festivities. It's often sung as part of the traditional rituals that mark the beginning of Padstow May Day in Cornwall.

What are words to the Nightgale / Farewell song?

Now fare thee well, my dearest dear, And we'll meet again some other year, And we'll have another May Day And we'll have another May Day. We'll go down to yonder old mill, Where the streams of love forever fill, And we'll have another May Day And we'll have another May Day. We'll go down to yonder old shore, Where the waves of love forever pour, And we'll have another May Day And we'll have another May Day. We'll go down to yonder old glen, Where the love of women comes to men, And we'll have another May Day And we'll have another May Day. We'll go down to yonder old dell, Where the love of women casts its spell, And we'll have another May Day And we'll have another May Day. We'll go down to yonder old lea, Where the love of women comes to me, And we'll have another May Day And we'll have another May Day. These verses capture the wistful and nostalgic tone of the song, often sung as a farewell or closing piece during the Padstow May Day celebrations.

What happens the evening before Padstow Mayday?

The evening before Padstow May Day, often referred to as "May Eve," is a time of anticipation and preparation for the festivities that will take place the following day. While specific customs and activities may vary, there are several traditions associated with May Eve in Padstow: Decoration of the town: In the days leading up to May Eve, the town of Padstow is decorated with colorful banners, ribbons, and greenery. Buildings may be adorned with flowers, and maypoles might be erected in preparation for the dancing that will take place on May Day. Gathering of participants: Locals involved in the May Day celebrations may gather in the evening to finalize plans and preparations for the next day's events. This could involve coordinating procession routes, practicing traditional songs and dances, and ensuring that costumes and props are ready. Community gatherings: May Eve may also be a time for community gatherings and socializing. Residents and visitors alike might come together for meals, drinks, and entertainment, fostering a sense of camaraderie and excitement for the upcoming festivities. Bonfires: In some areas, bonfires are lit on May Eve as part of traditional May Day celebrations. While this may not be a specific custom in Padstow, it is a practice observed in other regions to welcome the arrival of spring and ward off evil spirits. Overall, May Eve in Padstow sets the stage for the joyous and lively celebrations that will take place on May Day, with locals and visitors alike eagerly anticipating the start of the festivities.

What are the timings of Padstow Mayday

The timings of Padstow May Day, also known as 'Obby 'Oss Day, can vary slightly from year to year and depend on specific event schedules. However, here is a general outline of the typical timings for the day's festivities: Early morning: The day often begins with preparations for the celebrations, including dressing in traditional costumes, decorating the town, and finalizing plans for the processions and other activities. Morning: The official start of the Padstow May Day celebrations usually occurs in the morning, with the first processions setting off through the streets of the town. This can vary depending on the specific events planned for that year but often begins around 8 or 9 a.m. Midday: The morning procession continues, with participants dancing and singing through the streets. This lively atmosphere typically continues into the midday hours, with various performances and activities taking place at designated locations throughout the town. Afternoon: The festivities continue into the afternoon, with more processions, music, and dancing. Maypole dancing and other traditional activities may also be part of the afternoon's events. Evening: The celebrations may start to wind down in the evening, with the final processions and performances taking place before dusk. However, some events and activities may continue into the evening hours, depending on the schedule for that year. Night: The Padstow May Day celebrations traditionally conclude with a sense of community spirit and camaraderie, as participants and spectators come together to reflect on the day's festivities and perhaps enjoy additional social gatherings or entertainment. While these timings provide a general overview of the day's events, it's essential to check the specific schedule for Padstow May Day celebrations in any given year, as timings and activities may vary.

Where can I hear the Padstow May song?

You can hear recordings of the Padstow May Song, also known as "Padstow Farewell" or "The Nightingale," in various places. Here are a few suggestions: Online streaming platforms: Websites like YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Music often have recordings of traditional folk songs, including the Padstow May Song. You can search for the song by its title or keywords related to Padstow May Day celebrations. Folk music collections: Many folk music collections and archives feature recordings of traditional songs from different regions, including those associated with May Day celebrations. Check online databases or visit local libraries or music stores to find albums or compilations that include the Padstow May Song. Local events and performances: If you're in or near Padstow during the May Day celebrations, you may have the opportunity to hear the Padstow May Song performed live. Keep an eye out for local events, concerts, or performances that feature traditional folk music and May Day festivities. Community groups and organizations: Community groups, choirs, or folk music societies in Cornwall or other regions with strong ties to May Day traditions may perform the Padstow May Song at their events or gatherings. Consider reaching out to these groups to inquire about upcoming performances or recordings. By exploring these avenues, you should be able to find recordings of the Padstow May Song and experience its lively and festive atmosphere.

What is the earliest record of Padstow Mayday?

The first recorded mention of Padstow May Day, or 'Obby 'Oss Day, dates back to the early 19th century. One of the earliest written accounts of the festivities is found in a letter written by a visitor to Padstow in 1803, which describes witnessing the May Day celebrations and the dancing of the 'Obby 'Oss. While this is one of the earliest documented references to the Padstow May Day celebrations, it's worth noting that the tradition likely predates written records and may have been practiced for centuries before that. The origins of the event are thought to have pagan roots, with some elements of the celebration possibly dating back even further. Since the 19th century, Padstow May Day has continued to be celebrated annually, with the traditions evolving and adapting over time while still retaining their unique cultural significance. The event has become an important part of Padstow's identity and continues to attract visitors from around the world who come to witness the colorful and lively festivities.

How did Tregaskis try to stop Mayday?

There isn't a specific record of someone named Tregaskis trying to stop Padstow May Day. However, there was a period during the mid-19th century when attempts were made to suppress or reform the May Day celebrations in Padstow, as well as in other parts of Cornwall and England. During the Victorian era, there was a movement towards reforming or abolishing various traditional customs and festivities, including May Day celebrations, which were often seen as rowdy or pagan in nature. Some local authorities and religious leaders sought to discourage or regulate these events, viewing them as incompatible with Victorian values or moral standards. Efforts to suppress or modify May Day celebrations in Padstow and other areas typically involved interventions by local authorities, church officials, or community leaders. These efforts might have included imposing restrictions on the activities associated with May Day, discouraging participation through public statements or sermons, or attempting to replace traditional customs with more sanitized or religiously-oriented alternatives. While there may have been individuals named Tregaskis involved in these efforts in Padstow or neighboring areas, without specific historical records, it's challenging to provide details about their actions or motivations. However, it's clear that despite attempts to suppress or reform them, cherished part of the town's cultural heritage.