The Obby Oss: Padstow's Ancient May Day Ritual

Every year on May 1st, the fishing town of Padstow erupts into one of the oldest and strangest celebrations in Britain. The Obby Oss — the "Hobby Horse" — dances through the streets from midnight until the following midnight, and the whole town dances with it.

There are two Osses: the Old Oss (also called the "Original" or "Red") and the Blue Ribbon Oss (the "Peace" Oss). Each is a great circular frame covered in black tarpaulin, with a snapping wooden head and a terrifying mask. Inside, a dancer whirls and lunges, making the Oss seem to have a life of its own.

The origins are lost in prehistory. Some believe it's a Celtic fertility ritual. Some say it commemorates a French raid that the Oss drove away. Some think it's connected to the hobby horses that once accompanied Morris dancers. The truth is, nobody really knows — and Padstow doesn't care.

The day begins at midnight with the "Night Song" sung beneath the maypole. By dawn, the town is packed with thousands of visitors and former residents who return every year for this one day. The pubs serve pints of 'Obby Oss' beer. Children wear red and white or blue and white depending on which Oss they follow.

Throughout the day, the Osses dance to the hypnotic "May Song":

"Unite and unite and let us all unite, for summer is acome unto day..."

As evening falls, both Osses meet at the maypole for a final dance, and as the song fades, the Osses "die" until next May.

Source: Padstow Old Cornwall Society, folk custom archives, and the Victoria and Albert Museum folk traditions collection. Traditional community celebration documented for cultural preservation.