Celebrate Cornish Culture: 10 Must-Attend Events This Year

Cornwall is buzzing with excitement as it marks the 10th anniversary of Cornish people being recognised as a national minority.

From exhibitions and concerts to wrestling and traditional dances, Cornwall Council has lined up an array of events to celebrate this milestone. Residents and visitors alike are invited to delve into the vibrant Cornish culture through these specially curated events.

A Decade of Recognition

On 24 April 2014, Cornish people were officially recognised as a national minority under the European Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities. This recognition places the Cornish alongside other recognised groups such as the Scots, Welsh, and Irish, affirming their right to maintain and develop their distinct culture and identity.

Cultural Revival

Recent years have witnessed a significant revival in Cornish culture, particularly in the adoption of the Cornish language. More than 200 enthusiasts annually enrol in Kernewek language classes, and over 8,000 schoolchildren enjoy learning through the Go Cornish for Primary Schools programme. These educational initiatives are bolstered by increased identification with Cornish heritage, as reflected in the latest Census data.

A Year of Cultural Celebrations

To celebrate the anniversary, Cornwall Council highlights 10 not-to-be-missed events that showcase the unique Cornish culture:

1. The Cornish Treasures exhibition at Kresen Kernow runs from now through to July. Visit it to find out about Cornish cultural heritage, from wrestling to food and music.
2. On 27 April, a Cornish language concert will take place at Redruth Chapel. This includes a youth orchestra and eight singer-songwriters, all performing new music.
3. During Speak Cornish Week in June, various events featuring Cornish singing will take place across Cornwall, from singing for young families in libraries to singing old favourites in pubs.
4. In July, Endelienta, an arts organisation in St Endellion, will bring together Cornish performers for a residency to create a new work. This will then be performed in a concert.
5. Also in July, there will be chances to experience Cornish wrestling in Bodmin and nearby.
6. August will see Cornish music and dance featured at the Lorient Festival in Brittany, France. More than 900,000 visitors attend the festival each year.
7. In September, the annual Gorsedh Kernow bardic ceremony will take place in Callington.
8. The Cornish County Gig Championships also get underway in September in Newquay.
9. Lowender, a Cornish music and dance festival, takes place in Redruth in October.
10. Cornish food will be celebrated as part of a project called More than just pasties in Redruth.

Council Support

Following the 2023 Devolution Deal, which included £500,000 funding for Cornish cultural and language projects, these events have received significant support from the Council. This backing not only enhances the visibility of Cornish culture but also ensures its preservation for future generations.

Councillor Dick Cole, Chair of the Cornish Minority Working Group, emphasised the importance of these celebrations, “Cornwall and Cornish people have a unique identity, which we need to cherish and protect into the future. The 10-year anniversary is certainly worth celebrating and I encourage everyone to support these brilliant events that keep our traditions alive.”

Join the Celebrations

Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, participating in these events offers a chance to experience the rich and unique culture of Cornwall. Don’t miss out on these fabulous opportunities to engage with Cornish heritage throughout the year.