Montol takes place in Penzance every year on 21 December, which places the 2026 festival on Monday 21 December. The organiser describes it as a re-imagining of West Cornwall’s midwinter customs, with guise dancing, music, processions, strange beasts and the Ceremony of the Sun.
The festival began in 2007. Its official history explains that it draws on Christmas and midwinter customs once found in West Cornwall while deliberately creating a modern community event rather than claiming an unchanged ancient ceremony.
Visitor information
Date: Monday 21 December 2026.
Location: Central Penzance. The detailed map, route and timetable currently available on the official site are labelled 2025 and should not be treated as the 2026 schedule.
Admission: The main street festival is free to attend. Check individual associated workshops or indoor events once the 2026 programme is published.
Programme status: The date and recurring festival elements are confirmed. Exact parade times, meeting points and 2026 workshop details are not yet published.
Use the official timetable page close to the day because the festival components are community-led and the route can change.
Future timings must be checked against that year’s programme.
Where to stay
See Penzance visitor information and browse places to stay near Penzance.
