The Cornish Traditional Year Paperback Book by Simon Reed

The Cornish language plays a vital role in preserving the identity of the Cornish people, and equally essential is understanding and practicing our unique Cornish calendar. This book offers a comprehensive exploration of the annual cycle that holds a significant place in our cultural heritage. By coming together to celebrate these traditions, we strengthen our communities and foster a positive sense of identity. Embracing, reviving, or preserving this heritage is a meaningful step toward securing the future of Cornish culture for the 21st century and beyond.

Edition: Paperback Demy 138 x 216mm
Pagination: 141 pages, plus 12 pages of photographic plates (18 photographs by Jane Cox and Phil Green). 16 line drawings and figures, 12 by Gemma Gary, 4 by other artists.

Contents:

Introduction

Golowan, Midsummer fires and the feasts of Peter and John
Tansys Golowan – The Cornish Midsummer Carol
Late Survivals and Revivals
The Old Cornwall Bonfire Ceremony

Lammas – Goel Est

Guldize – The Cornish Harvest Festival

Allantide – The Cornish festival of Magic and Apples The Parish Feast

Nadelik – The Cornish Christmas
The Mock or Cornish Yule Log
Guise, or Geese Dancing
Christmas Food
Padstow Mummers’ Days
The Cornish Carol or “Curl”
The Cornish Christmas Bush or Bunch
Robin’s Alight
The Candle Dance
Montol
Wassailing
Childermas
Lanterns
Tom Bawcock’s Eve – The Mousehole Feast
New Year
Twelfth Night

Candlemas, Nickanan Night, and Shrovetide

St Piran’s Day and other Miners’ Holidays

The Cornish May Traditions
Padstow ‘Obby ‘Oss
Polperro May Day
Fowey
The Furry Dance – Helston
May Horns, Pee Weeps and other May Customs
St Germans May Tree Fair

Quarter Days, Minor Holidays and other Feast Days

Mock Mayors and Sham leaders

The Wobbly Wheel of the Cornish Year