Celebrate Beltane in Style: St Ives Hosts Spectacular May Day Festivities

St Ives is set to come alive with the vibrant traditions of Beltane this May Day weekend. The historic town has announced a series of events to be held at St Ives Community Orchard & Nature Reserve on Saturday, 4th May, and at the Guildhall on Bank Holiday Monday, 6th May.

Beltane Traditions Rekindled

This year, the celebration will feature the enchanting May Horns and traditional May Pole dancing, marking the arrival of spring with rituals that have deep historical roots in Celtic festivities. These events are organised by St Ives Rotary Club and supported by St Ives Town Council, ensuring a community-focused celebration.

The Day’s Festivities

The festivities will begin at 11:45 with a performance by the Community Choir on the Ramp, setting a melodious start to the day. At noon, the May Queen and King will be chosen by a panel of esteemed judges, including the Chairman of the Rotary, the Mayor, and a member of the town council.

Following the crowning, the celebration will continue with two children blowing the May Horns, a signal of the seasonal transition and a call to rejoice in the community spirit.

Dance and Music

The highlight of the day will undoubtedly be the Maypole Dance, performed by the children of Nancledra School. Set against the backdrop of the Forecourt, with a live band positioned on the Ramp, this traditional dance promises to be a visual and musical spectacle. The Maypole, a symbol of fertility and the season’s bounty, will then be ceremonially carried to West Pier.

The final dance of the day is scheduled to take place at Chy an Chy, just before reaching the Sloop. This will lead into a procession back to the Guildhall, expected to arrive around 2:10 PM.

A Community Effort

The entire day’s events are not just a celebration of spring but also a showcase of St Ives’ community spirit and cultural heritage. Residents and visitors are encouraged to participate and immerse themselves in the festivities that make St Ives a unique place to celebrate May Day. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience one of Cornwall’s most picturesque settings come alive with the joy and vibrancy of Beltane.

Full details can be found on St Ives town council’s website.