Flora Day

Flora Day History

Flora Day showcases the cultural heritage and spirit of Helston, Cornwall. As one of the most ancient and unique traditions in the region, it provides an opportunity for revellers to appreciate the advent of spring through a series of festive events. Key aspects of the day include the majestic Furry Dance, the grand processions, and the ceremonial decoration of the town with fresh flowers and greenery.

Flora Day is believed to have its origins in pagan celebrations dating back to pre-Christian times. In 1543, it was described as the "bringing in the May flowers" by the Welsh poet, Tudur Aled. Over the centuries, the festival has evolved to incorporate time-honoured customs that appeal to the people of the United Kingdom. Today, Flora Day serves as a vibrant reminder of the nation's rich past and offers Helston citizens the opportunity to honour local customs while engaging in cheerful festivities with family, friends, and visitors alike.

In the United Kingdom, Flora Day festivities commence with the early morning dance and continue with the children's dance, the midday dance, and the evening dance. At each stage, dancers follow a specific route through the town, visiting private premises and decorated homes in a captivating display of tradition and unity. The iconic Furry Dance serves as a key highlight of the day and features hundreds of participants, dressed in their finest attire, dancing in step through the streets of Helston. Flora Day is celebrated annually on May 8th or the nearest weekday if it falls on a weekend or Bank Holiday.

Flora Day Facts

• Helston's symbolic flower is the lily of the valley. It is a woodland flowering plant that has bell-shaped white flowers.
• Music performed on this day is provided by Helston's own town band. It's said that the members of the band play from memory as the notes for their music were never written down.
• A common tradition held on this day is the colourful pageant known as Hal an Tow. It tells the history of Helston using different characters like St. George and St. Michael. It also tells about the challenges of the Spanish Armada.
• Men participating in the dance traditionally wear morning suits with tails, accompanied by a white shirt, a bow tie, and a top hat. Women wear long, elegant dresses with gloves and hats. The children wear white outfits during their dance performance.
• One of the main highlights of Flora Day is the famous "Furry Dance" (or "Flora Dance"), a traditional Cornish dance performed by townsfolk in colorful costumes and accompanied by live music from a brass band.
• The Lily of the Valley is a traditional flower associated with Flora Day, often worn by participants and displayed throughout the town. It is chosen for its beautiful fragrance and appearance, symbolizing the arrival of spring and the renewal of life.

In the News and Trending for Flora Day

Flora Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Learn more about the Flora Day festival dances.
• Browse a gallery of the festival. See how the festival and its traditions have persisted over the years.
• Watch the 2023 Flora Day festival if you missed it.
• Read The Little Book of Cornwall, a fact-packed compendium of snippets and trivia about various aspects of Cornish history, culture, and landscape.
• Head to The Blue Anchor, the famous 15th-century pub in Helston, for a pint of locally brewed ale. It's a popular spot to relax and enjoy the atmosphere after the festivities.