Fire, Beasts, and Midwinter Misrule: Thousands Flock to Montol Festival in Penzance

The streets of Penzance came alive on Saturday, 21st December, as thousands of masked revellers gathered for the Montol Festival, a vibrant celebration of the midwinter solstice, Cornish traditions, and Old Christmas customs. Despite heavy rain and strengthening winds ahead of a midnight weather warning, the event drew an enthusiastic crowd, making it one of the most successful in the festival’s 17-year history.

A Tradition Rooted in Cornish Heritage

First launched in 2007 under the leadership of Simon Reed and the Cornish Culture Association, Montol Festival has evolved into a cornerstone of Penzance’s cultural calendar. Now overseen by the Montol Organising Committee, the festival reimagines traditional midwinter customs once practised across Cornwall, particularly in and around Penzance.

This year, the festival received a boost from Penzance Council, which awarded £5,000 in grant funding to support its organisation. Mayor Stephen Reynolds highlighted the event’s significance:

“Montol Festival has become a highlight of the year for the town, bringing our community together to celebrate the midwinter solstice in Penzance’s own inimitable way. Penzance Council is committed to promoting, supporting, and nurturing the distinct cultural heritage and identity of our Parish, so we are proud to once again provide funding to help make Montol happen.

“The team behind the festival have worked so hard to make it bigger and more inclusive than ever this year, so a big thank you to them for all their efforts and enduring community spirit.”

Parades, Beasts, and a Battle of Kings

The festivities began early in the afternoon as iconic ‘Beasts’ and ‘Osses,’ including Pen Hood, Maw Bras, and Alargh Du, roamed the town alongside Morris sides and carol singers. However, the real spectacle unfolded at sunset.

At 4:22pm, the Sundowner Parade began, braving torrential rain as 10-year-old Mock Mayor of Penzance Herbie led the way alongside the Raffidy Dumitz Band, Tros an Treys, and numerous Osses. The parade was capped with the Summoning of the Sun Ceremony, featuring a dramatic battle between the Oak and Holly Kings.

The evening’s main event, “The Progress of the Sun,” saw a large procession led by the giant crow ‘Old Ned.’ Illuminated musicians, Guise Guilds, and members of the public followed the parade from Greenmarket to the Princess May Recreation Ground for the climactic Burning of the Sun.

A Growing Celebration

The Guise Guilds, integral to the Montol Festival, continue to expand each year. With their roots in 19th-century traditions, the guilds bring friends together in themed costumes. Notable guilds include The Cornmarket Revellers, The ‘Gyptians, The Physicians, and recent additions such as The Frolicking Fishy Folk and The Coddiwomplers.

After the fiery spectacle at the recreation ground, festivities continued in the town centre with more guise and Morris dancing. The evening concluded with Tas Nadelik’s Parade and the Progress of the Mock torch-lit procession. The grand finale featured the traditional Chalking the Mock, rounding off a night filled with laughter, dance, and a touch of midwinter misrule.

The Montol Festival has once again proven its place as a unique celebration of Cornish heritage, delighting locals and visitors alike.

Photos: All Photos & Videos Credited to Penzance Council