Falmouth’s St Piran’s Parade began around 15 years ago with the aim of giving local children the opportunity to connect with their heritage through song, dance and storytelling. 

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Vicki Ferguson was one of three people who wanted to get the celebrations off the ground, and the team has since been joined by various people who have felt passionate about putting Cornish heritage and culture at the centre of the community. This year’s celebration also happens to be Vicki’s final year overseeing the event; we’re sure you will all join us in thanking her for her dedication to celebrating our patron saint, and Cornwall as a whole.

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The event on Wednesday, 5th March, will start on the Moor at 9.30am, with crowds expected to gather to enjoy Cornish music and performances by Swamp Circus. 

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At 10am, the parade will begin, led by the mayor, with children dancing and walkers marching along Webber Street and the Prince of Wales Pier, before returning to Market Street, where the parade will walk and chant their way to King Charles Church. The church will be serving refreshments - a suitably Cornish snack of a saffron bun and a glass of squash! - before a storytelling session unveiling the life and work of Saint Piran. There will also be a brief introduction to Kernewek, and the singing of the famous Cornish anthem, Trelawny.

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It is the first year the children have been given the opportunity to put their writing skills to the test in a new poetry competition, and there have been a huge number of entries. The presentation of prizes will take place in the church. All pieces of poetry will be on display in the library foyer for parents and members of the community to admire.

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Everybody of all ages and abilities are invited to join the parade. Bring a flag to wave and a raucous voice to chant, and, most importantly, have fun! 

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