About Us
Event We Like!
St Piran's Day 5th March
When - Saturday 3rd - Monday 5th March 2012
Where - Various locations including Bodmin, Perranporth, Redruth & Truro (check out your local Tourist Information Centres for a list of activities)
What's it all about?
Legend tells us how Piran, a Christian from heathen Ireland, was cast into the sea tied to a millstone on the order of the Irish King who was suspicious of Piran's miraculous powers. Although the sea was treacherous Piran survived by floating on the millstone, the stormy seas calming as he reached the shores of Cornwall. Some say Piran eventually made land at Perranporth beach, and where he began to build an oratory to promote Christianity. The oratory is now preserved in the towans (sand dunes) at Perran Sands. Piran is perhaps most famous for his accidental discovery of tin and it was this discovery that earned Piran the title Patron Saint of ‘Tinners', The story of the tin also forms the basis of the Cornish flag, the white hot tin on the black of the ore.
Here in Cornwall, St Piran's day celebrations have continued to grow in popularity; there's even been a call for it to be a Bank Holiday. The annual St Piran Play on Perran Sands is a highlight with hundreds of people making a pilgrimage to the site of the oratory itself, now buried in sand for preservation.
Why do I like it?
Because young and old can join in the celebrations and learn about Cornwall's Patron Saint and its ancient history.
Street parades, music and performances - Free
