Fire & Folk Summer Event Announced at The Story of Emily in St Ive

Folk music, flaming feasts and Cornish legends come together at The Story of Emily

A brand new summer event is coming to St Ive near Liskeard, as Fire & Folk makes its debut at The Story of Emily on Saturday 2nd August.

Set against the backdrop of The Rectory and War Rooms, Fire & Folk promises a midsummer celebration full of folklore, music, food and games, blending Cornish tradition with South African hospitality.

Live music and folklore-inspired dancing

One of the headline performances will be from the WAD, an all-female Morris side from Falmouth. Their bold choreography draws on the story of Joan the Wad, the torch-bearing Queen of the Cornish Piskies, and brings folklore-inspired energy to the day.

Folk band Black Friday will also take to the stage. Known for their lively, foot-stomping sets, the group blend their own music with folk classics from The Pogues and Flogging Molly. With roots in St Germans and a strong following across the UK and Europe, they’re expected to bring plenty of energy to the party.

Open-fire food and vintage fairground games

Alongside the music and dancing, guests can enjoy a fireside feast with flavours rooted in South African cooking, all cooked slowly over open flames. It’s designed to be shared with friends and enjoyed outdoors.

Families and visitors of all ages can take part in vintage fairground games throughout the afternoon, including coconut shies and splat-the-rat.

As dusk falls, stories will be shared by firelight in a relaxed, celebratory setting.

What the organisers say

“Fire & Folk brings people together for a midsummer celebration – storytelling, culture, community, and connection. It’s a way to honour the height of summer, rooted in place and rich with energy. From music and dance to fire-cooked food and folklore, there’s something here for everyone,” said Martin Lovell, General Manager at The Story of Emily.

Admission and booking info

Fire & Folk is included in the standard admission to The Story of Emily. Annual Pass and Neighbour Pass holders can attend at no extra cost.

Ticket prices:

• Day Pass: £25 adult | £12 child (5–17) | Under 5s free

• Annual Pass: £35 adult | £15 child (5–17) | Under 5s free

• Family Passes: See options on their website

Booking is strongly advised, and visitors planning to explore The Rectory or War Rooms are encouraged to book separate time slots in advance.

📷Credit: Connor @folktographic

📷Credit: Connor @folktographic

📷Credit: Connor @folktographic

📷Credit: Connor @folktographic