The traditional folk custom known as 'Obby 'Oss took place in Padstow, Cornwall, on May 1.

Newsflare member Robert1 captured all the excitement from the festival that involves locals following two processions around the area.

They explained: "The 'Obby 'Oss (hobby horse) is duplicated in a blue and red version each with followers in blue or red garb and each 'Oss has a home in different parts of the town. To take part in the processions one should be Padstow born.

"Padstow natives return from the four corners of the earth to celebrate each Mayday. The tradition involves the hypnotic and melodious tune of "Summer is a Cumming" sung and danced to the accompaniment of accordions and drums as the mysterious Oss gyrates rhythmically through the narrow streets and lanes of the town.

"The history of the 'Obby 'Oss is lost in time but probably stems from pagan fertility rites. To get caught under the 'Oss was a sure sign of a coming pregnancy.

"A very large number of sightseers showed up with the good weather and Bank holiday timing this year."

Ancient traditional May Day festivities in the ancient Cornish Harbour town of Padstow. Performed on the 1st of May 2023.

The Obby Oss is duplicated in a blue and red version each with followers in blue or red garb and each "Oss" has a home in different parts of the town. To take part in the processions one should be Padstow born.

Padstow natives return from the four corners of the earth to celebrate each Mayday. The tradition involves the hypnotic and melodious tune of "Summer is a cumming" sung and danced to the accompaniment of accordions and drums as the mysterious "Oss" gyrates rhythmically through the narrow streets and lanes of the town.

The history of the Obby Oss is lost in time but probably stems from pagan fertility rites. To get caught under the Oss was a sure sign of a coming pregnancy.

The Oss is paraded to the older folks homes in the town. The origins of this festival are lost in time.

A very large number of sightseers showed up with the good weather and Bank holiday timing this year.




Obby Oss May Day traditional festivities in England. Padstow Cornwall involving costume music and dancing through the streetss. UK