Every Spring, the harbour town of Padstow bursts into life with one of Britain’s most unique and captivating folk traditions.
The historic May Day celebration, Obby Oss Day, has been filling the streets with music, dancing and spectacle for generations, with the focal point being the ceremonial “oss” figures that weave their way through the town.
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This isn’t a typical celebration and the “hobby horse” isn’t the simple toy version you might imagine. It’s a large, elaborate costume, consisting of a circular frame draped in fabric with a stylised horse’s head. The dancer inside moves through the streets in a dramatic, theatrical way.
Town atmosphere and decorations
In the days leading up to Obby Oss day, the town undergoes a remarkable transformation.
Adorned with ribbons and decorations to mark May Day; the Maypole is the centrepiece, with the streets decorated in greenery, flowers, flags and garlands to create an almost magical setting. Every corner of Padstow comes alive with anticipation, with thousands of people gathering including families, visitors and locals who all contribute to the sense of occasion.
A local historian once described it as “Christmas and birthdays and everything rolled into one” for most locals, capturing just how important the day is to community spirit. Strengthening connections between generations, the occasion ensures Padstow’s ancient heritage will live on in the future.
History and origins
Padstow Obby Oss Day is one of Britain’s oldest surviving folk traditions, with roots stretching back centuries. No one knows exactly how it began, but many historians believe it may have grown out of ancient pagan rituals celebrating the arrival of summer. It’s often tied to Beltane, a Celtic festival of fertility, renewal and changing seasons.
The focal point of the Oss has led to theories around “horse magic”. Once essential to everyday life, including for farming, transport and trade, horses’ importance may have elevated them into symbolic figures within seasonal rituals.
According to folklore, if a woman was caught underneath the Oss, this brought good luck; in particular, she might marry or have a child within a year. Although it isn’t taken literally by most people today, it still reflects older beliefs about this time of year being linked to renewal.
There are two different types of horse; the Red or Old Oss is considered the original and more traditional. Closely linked to deep-rooted local customs, it has been included since the event’s earliest recorded history.
The Blue or Peace Oss dates from the 19th century and is believed to have been connected to the Temperance Movement, which aimed to curb heavy drinking.
Today, loyalty to Red or Blue is often passed down through families, adding a strong sense of heritage, identity and belonging.
The Oss performance and ritual
For most visitors, the fun starts at 10am on May Day itself. From this point onwards, the town remains alive with non-stop activities.
The highlight of the day is the dramatic emergence of the Osses from their overnight “stables”, each taking to the narrow streets, accompanied by musicians and followers who wear white clothing often decorated with flowers, ribbons and sashes in either red or blue, depending on their allegiance.
The symbolic attire creates a powerful sense of unity and community identity. The white garments of local participants makes it easy to spot those who have grown up with the tradition, distinguishing them from visitors who are watching in awe and embracing the spirit of the day.
Despite the historic rivalry between the two Osses, the overall atmosphere is friendly and welcoming – whether you’re a lifelong resident or visiting for the celebrations. Their performance is playful, yet steeped in ritual, blending entertainment with echoes of ancient tradition.
Music and The May Song
Music is the heartbeat of the celebration, with both Oss parties having their own bands comprising of accordions and drums.
Central to the celebration is the traditional May Song, a Cornish folk song sung by crowds throughout the day and evening:
“Unite and unite and let us all unite,
For Summer is a come unto day,
And wither we are going we will all unite,
In the merry morning of May.”
Regarded as one of the most emotional moments of the day, the song brings together people of all generations in a shared experience.
Traditions and modern practice
Like many longstanding customs, the celebration has evolved over time. One example is the tradition of the Oss’s “snappy jaws”, once used to collect coins from the crowd to fund celebrations. Today, the money raised is typically donated to charity, reflecting a more modern approach.
Despite subtle changes, the essence of the event remains intact, representing a proud and living part of Padstow history passed down through generations. A celebration that remains deeply meaningful to locals, it welcomes visitors who come to experience the magical atmosphere.
