What’s on in Cornwall this May
springtime is in full swing in cornwall…
The sun is beginning to shine, the flowers are in bloom, the evenings are longer and the beaches are still crowd-less. May is the perfect time to explore all that Cornwall has to offer. This month The Duchy is brimming with exciting events.
Here is our carefully-curated list of things to do in Cornwall this May.
📷 : Steph Strings
3rd May 2023: Steph Strings at The Cornish Bank
Where: The Cornish Bank, Falmouth
Head over to the eclectic Cornish Bank at the beginning of May and be treated to the soulful tunes of Australian singer-songwriter, Steph Strings. Her music focuses on percussion alongside Celtic, blues and coastal fingerstyle indie-rock. With influences from the John Butler Trio and Kim Churchill, she is sure to warm the heart and eardrums.
5th May 2023: Helston Flora Day
Where: Helston town centre
This famous annual festival, held in the market town of Helston, has its origins in pre-Christian ancient spring festivals. The focus of the day is the dances that take place through the streets of the town and the performance of the famous Hal an Tow pageant.
Dancing begins at an eye-watering 7am with gentlemen wearing shirts and ties and the ladies in light summer dresses. Later on the dresses get more elaborate, from children wearing flower crowns to ladies decked out in ball gowns. The event is free and family friendly but does get busy, so arrive early to secure your viewing spot!
6th-8th May 2023: Celebrate the King’s Coronation with an afternoon tea
Where: The Greenbank, Falmouth
Looking to celebrate our new King’s Coronation in style? Join us at the scenic Water’s Edge restaurant to celebrate with a decadent afternoon tea. Delve into three tiers of delicious sweet and savoury treats, with a Coronation twist, and raise your cup of tea as toast to our new monarch.
📷 : St Ives festival
12-14TH MAY 2023: ST IVES FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL
Where: Porthminster Beach, St Ives
One of the first big food festivals of the season, the St Ives Food and Drink Festival is an awesome culinary extravaganza that’s super popular among foodies.
Set in the picturesque seaside town of St Ives, you’ll discover live entertainment, incredible ocean views, and world-class grub. Catch demos from top-notch Cornish chefs like Emily Scott, Ben Prior, and Jack Stein, alongside tons of food and drink stalls to choose from. With live music from artists like The Scribes, Molly Hocking, and Our Atlantic Roots, it’s not one to miss!
Day time entry is free but tickets are required for evening music sessions.
12th-20th May 2023: Fowey Festival of Art & Literature
Where: Various locations in Fowey
If art and literature is more your cup of tea, then head over to Fowey this May for this cultural extravaganza.
With a programme of exciting talks, interviews, workshops and even guided walks to enjoy, this is sure to be an enlightening and enriching weekend. Speakers include British historian, Professor Kate Williams, politicians Sir Vince Cable and Ann Widdicombe and authors such as Raynor Winn, Veronica Henry and Fern Britton.
Entertainment from the Fisherman’s Friends and comedian, Johnny Cowling, will also help to make it a festival to remember!
📷 : Minack theatre
19th May 2023: This Is The Kit at The Minack
Where: The Minack, Porthcurno
If you’re into sweet folk rock melodies and panoramic coastal views, then you won’t want to miss this one. After selling out the evening show, due to popular demand, This is the Kit have agreed to do an afternoon show at this breath-taking venue.
Expect to be serenaded by the floaty tunes from this talented quintet, whilst drinking in the unbeatable backdrop.
21st May 2023: RACE FOR LIFE IN FALMOUTH
Where: Gyllyngvase beach, Falmouth
This annual 5k run begins at Falmouth’s Gyllyngvase beach and loops around taking in views of Pendennis and the Falmouth seafront. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or you’ve never done a 5k before, it’s all for a good cause as all of the entry money goes towards raising funds for Cancer Research UK. Dust those running trainers off and jog on!
27th May 2023: The Alverton’s Summer Garden Sessions
Where: The Alverton, Truro
The end of May is when The Alverton’s famous Summer Garden Sessions kick off. This year they’re running nine Summer Sessions out on the sunshine-filled terrace, featuring talented local acoustic musicians. Bask in the natural beauty of our private gardens, dine al fresco on the sun-drenched terrace and listen to fantastic live music with a G&T in hand. Tickets are £15 per person and include a tipple on arrival, the entertainment and a mezze plate.
The first artist to perform is Jenny Bishop, performing from 5.30pm on Saturday 27th May. Discover more and how to book your ticket here.
