Obby Oss

Obby Oss, which takes place in Padstow on the first of May, is one of the oldest surviving festivals in the UK, with origins in Pagan fertility rites. Padstow’s narrow streets and ancient harbour are extravagantly decorated with flowers, flags and greenery, the focal point of which is a tall and colourful maypole. A grand procession of dancers, accompanied by musicians, follows two faintly terrifying human beings, dressed as horses, as they journey through town pretending to try to grab young maidens. This bizarre dance culminates with the townsfolk joining together around the maypole to sing Padstow’s own unique may song.