Montol is Penzance’s midwinter celebration, held on the winter solstice. A lantern procession winds through the town’s streets, Guise dancers in traditional costumes perform ancient rituals, bonfires are lit, and the Mock Mayor of Penzance holds court.
The festival revives old Cornish midwinter traditions that had largely died out, bringing them back with energy, creativity, and genuine community spirit. It’s atmospheric, slightly strange, and completely captivating — especially as darkness falls and the lanterns light up the narrow streets.
A brilliant reason to visit Cornwall in winter. Free to attend.