May Bank Holiday inspiration

What’s better than a May Bank Holiday? Having two of them of course! The month of May is a popular one in Cornwall, for locals and holiday makers alike. The weather shows signs of improving, the flowers are blossoming and warmer times are nigh…and what’s more it’s still on the quieter side of Summer. We have put together some pointers on what to do in the region during this promising month…

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1. Padstow May Day

May Day (or ‘Obby ‘Oss Day as it is known) is the biggest day in Padstow’s calendar. It is not unusual to see 30,000 people crammed into this little town on the day when Padstonians from all over the world return to their roots. Locals spend the night decorating the town’s streets with flags, flowers and greenery complete with a maypole, and a parade of dancers clad in costumes decorated with ribbons and sprays of cowslips and bluebells line the streets and follow the blue and red ‘osses’ (horses). This is then followed by singing the traditional May Song. It is a day full of fun and frolics and takes place annually on 1st May (2nd May if the 1st falls on a Sunday). I must go for those staying in the Padstow area.

2. May at the Minack Theatre

Shows and events at the Minack Theatre near Porthcurno are now in full swing, and with a wealth of entertainment to enjoy as well as stunning sea views why wouldn’t you visit this amazing venue this May bank holiday? The British Theatre Academy brings their West End Smash Hit production of 13: The Musical to Minack between 5-7th May, featuring talented young performers from the West End’s, Matilda, Mary Poppins, Les Miserables, Billy Elliot and The Sound Of Music. Or how about Jesus Christ Superstar! Featuring well known songs such as ‘Gethsemane’, ‘I Don’t Know How to Love Him’ and ‘Superstar’, this iconic rock-opera needs no introduction as it takes you on an emotional journey of Jesus’ final days and is on from 28th May.

3. Groundwork: International Art in Cornwall

‘Groundwork’ project bringing international art and artists to Cornwall, organised by the Helston-based Cornubian Arts and Science Trust in partnership with Kestle Barton GalleryNewlyn Art Gallery & The Exchange and Tate St Ives Gallery. This May, it presents a season of exceptional international contemporary art in locations across West Cornwall, with a focus on place and an emphasis on moving image, sound and performance. The programme of exhibitions and events unfolding from May to September includes presentations of important new commissions and acclaimed works by internationally celebrated artists. Take a look the website to see if there is something to be enjoyed near you this month.

4. Bluebells in Cornwall

Take your pick of gardens to visit in the region this May and experience breathtaking carpets of bluebells in Cornwall. Tehidy Country Park near Hayle, Penrose Estate near Helston and Glendurgan Garden, Falmouth are all beautiful at this time of year.

5. Watch a Surfing Competition!

Watch the cream of British surfing at the 44th English National Surf Championships held over the Bank Holiday weekend at Watergate Bay. With junior, women’s, mens and longboarding titles up for grabs it’s sure to be a spectacle for spectators. Could be a great day out for those staying in Newquay!

This is just a handful of exciting events and activities taking place across the region this month, so take your pick and say hooray for May!