May day will soon be here and so too will Obby Oss day in Padstow. This old tradition celebrates the arrival of Spring and may even be an ancient fertility festival. Those born in Padstow traditionally dress in white, with family loyalties dictating whether they follow the 'Red'/original Oss, or the 'Blue'/peace Oss. Both Oss' are similar in appearance and perform a dancing ritual accompanied by an hypnotic folk song around the town. Each Oss is lead by a group of followers as they make their way through the narrow streets and around the harbour. The festivities start at 10am with the 'Blue' Oss making its first appearance from its stable, followed at 11am by the appearance of the 'Red' Oss from its home. Celebrations go on all day until the Oss' finally go to bed after 10pm.
Friday 25 April 2008
May Day - Obby Oss
May day will soon be here and so too will Obby Oss day in Padstow. This old tradition celebrates the arrival of Spring and may even be an ancient fertility festival. Those born in Padstow traditionally dress in white, with family loyalties dictating whether they follow the 'Red'/original Oss, or the 'Blue'/peace Oss. Both Oss' are similar in appearance and perform a dancing ritual accompanied by an hypnotic folk song around the town. Each Oss is lead by a group of followers as they make their way through the narrow streets and around the harbour. The festivities start at 10am with the 'Blue' Oss making its first appearance from its stable, followed at 11am by the appearance of the 'Red' Oss from its home. Celebrations go on all day until the Oss' finally go to bed after 10pm.
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