Around 400 school children from 14 local schools have been practicing their songs and dances, ready to perform at this year’s Launceston Children’s Parade. The parade was added to Launceston’s regular St Piran’s celebrations in 2019, when children from local schools were given the opportunity to participate in this huge community event for the first time. A way to ensure each child feels better connected to their Cornish roots and home town, it is always a joy to watch, and has grown year-on-year. 

This year, the children will be joined by residents from The Park, whose sing and sign choir will be performing during the event. 

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The Mayor of Launceston, Helen Bailey, town councillors and invited dignitaries will follow standard bearer Isabelle Gribble, who is set to lead the parade through the town centre. Piper Keith Sutherland will ring in the celebrations as the parade approaches.

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The parade will set off from the castle entrance at 10am on Wednesday, 5th March, and will make its way up to the Square. Promoted and organised by Launceston Town Council, all residents and visitors are encouraged to gather and watch the parade - make sure you’ve got your best singing voices on to belt out Trelawny too! 

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Dances will include Mr Martin’s Reel, as well as the Lanson Dance, first performed for His Majesty the King and the Queen Consort during their royal visit as the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall in 2022. 

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A spokesperson for Launceston Town Council said: “ The parade is the culmination of the Town Council working closely with local schools and organisations to ensure, not only providing a fun day to remember, but also promoting the sense and importance of Cornish heritage.

“Kernow Bys Vyken!”

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