Padstow’s ‘Obby ‘Oss May Day falls on Saturday 1 May 2027. The town always celebrates on 1 May, moving to 2 May only when the first falls on a Sunday, so the day is fixed even though the 2027 road, parking and procession notices have not been published yet.
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.
Visitor information
Date: Saturday 1 May 2027. Timings and routes for the day are announced by the town closer to May.
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 Echoes of Padstow community archive preserves the history and participants’ accounts. Nearer the day, the town publishes road closures, accessible viewing points and the first appearance of each ‘Oss.
Where to stay
See Padstow visitor information and browse places to stay near Padstow.
