Padstow’s ‘Obby ‘Oss May Day is provisionally dated for Saturday 1 May 2027. The town celebrates on 1 May, moving to 2 May when the first falls on a Sunday, but local road, parking and procession notices for 2027 are not yet published.
The established tradition centres on two groups, the Old ‘Oss and Blue Ribbon ‘Oss. Each horse moves through the streets with a Teaser, musicians, singers and followers, returning to its own stable between rounds.
Current status
Provisional date: Saturday 1 May 2027. The annual date rule supports the day, while timings and routes still need an edition-specific announcement.
Venue: Streets across central Padstow. This is a moving community tradition rather than a performance on one enclosed site.
Admission: Free to watch from public streets. There is no general event ticket, although local collections may take place.
Visitor planning: Padstow’s narrow streets become very crowded on the day. Use the council’s 2027 travel and safety notices when they appear, and follow stewards’ directions.
The community archive preserves the history and participants’ accounts; check a current organiser notice for road closures, accessible viewing and the first appearance of each ‘Oss.
Where to stay
See Padstow visitor information and browse places to stay near Padstow.
