HELSTON FLORA DAY 2024 IS ON WEDNESDAY 8 MAY 2024. THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST TRADITIONAL CORNISH EVENTS 2024 YOU CAN EXPERIENCE. DISCOVER THIS COLOURFUL CORNISH CELEBRATION WITH DANCING IN THE STREETS WITH US…
Cornwall is home to a plethora of unique traditions but Flora Day has to be right up there with the most energetic and beautiful. Officially known as Helston Flora Day 2024 due to the buzzing town that it takes place in, it is one of the most eagerly anticipated spring events in the far western reaches of Cornwall.
Hundreds of couples dressed up to the nines dance through the streets. There are dramatic re-enactments of St George slaying the dragon. As the name suggests, flowers adorn the streets wherever you look and there’s music in the air at every turn. Welcome to the best Cornish Flora Day 2024 in the Duchy!
Flora Day has a rich history that’s been in dispute for years, with some people saying it is rooted in Christian tradition whereas others claim it actually comes from a legend. This legend tells the story of a dragon who dropped a big rock on the town but the locals survived and celebrated by dancing in the streets and having a wild time. However it started, Flora Day is now about chasing out the winter and welcoming in the springtime with bluebells, bright flowers and green leaves.
Tens of thousands of people come along to see the Helstonians in full swing. At the 2023 Helston Flora Day, there were so many people packed in so many roads to see the dancers taking their elegant turns. It’s a lively festival, full of dance and cheer across town, with a traditional atmosphere and plenty of parties going on.
The Helston Town Band adds upbeat live music and one of the big highlights is the ‘Helston Furry Dance’ which winds its way in and out of local houses. Gents wear top hats and tails and ladies wear their best gowns. Definitely catch the famous dance that begins on the dot of 12 midday. There are also early morning dances at the Guildhall, a dance that takes place at 5pm, loads of talented children who also get into the fun throughout the day, a grand procession, tons of stalls and a fairground.
Flora Day is usually held on 8 May unless that date falls on a Sunday or a Monday. If it does then it’s moved to the Saturday before. Well, it was moved in 2023, so it took place on Friday 5 May due to the King’s Coronation. But in 2024, we’re back on traditional track as it takes place on Werdnesday 8 May 2024.
Expect a colourful and traditional affair that’s so much fun to watch and feel a part of. You don’t want to miss the fun if you’re in town around this date. Bloom as bright as a Helstonian in May 2024!