The torch will stop off in Penzance, Helston and Truro, as well as Cornish villages including Bugle and Stenalees, near St Austell. Malcolm Bell, from Visit Cornwall, said: "The great thing about the route is that we have the iconic start at Land's End, and the opportunity to showcase places like St Michael's Mount. But I am equally delighted for villages like Bugle and Stenalees. It will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for villagers to celebrate such a worldwide event."

Cornish destinations

Land's End
Sennen
Newlyn
Penzance
Marazion
Rosudgeon
Ashton
Breage
Helston
Falmouth
Truro
Newquay
St Stephen
Trewoon
St Austell
Stenalees
Bugle
Lanivet
Bodmin
Liskeard
Saltash

As part of the celebrations visitors will be able to see Kernocopia - a Cultural Olympiad project and Cornwall’s contribution to the Opening Ceremony at Weymouth and Portland, venue for the 2012 Olympic sailing events. Titled ‘Battle for the Winds’ Cornwall’s sporting treasures will be celebrated with a striking performance piece of live outdoor theatre, created from working with the sports community in Cornwall through a residency programme including rowing inspired physical theatre, surfing inspired songs, wrestling inspired films, hurling inspired poetry and sailing inspired dances.

The Battle for the Winds will be performed to a local, regional, national and international audience as part of the Olypmic Torch Relay route in Cornwall, at the Weymouth & Portland Olympic Opening Ceremony and at cultural and sporting events in Cornwall throughout 2012 .

Council leader Alec Robertson said: "Millions of people already visit Cornwall every year, attracted by the opportunity to learn about our ancient past, with its industrial heritage, at the same time as enjoying our wonderful beaches, gardens and coastal walks, a marvellous array of festivals, arts and cultural events and our restaurants offering the fresh Cornish produce. The decision to choose Cornwall as the starting point for the 2012 celebrations offers us a wonderful opportunity to showcase the very best we have to offer and it is an opportunity that we will grasp with both hands."

St Ives Food & Drink Festival       

What’s it all about?

Taste, try, meet, buy, and enjoy the finest flavours and tastes that Cornwall has to offer and see some of the best chefs in the county giving cooking demonstrations in one of the best food and drink destinations anywhere in the UK.

What happens?

The festival is a celebration of local produce and talent with events hosted across St Ives throughout the festival showcasing local chefs, culinary experts and a wide variety of local beverages and food. A Producers Market on West Pier features some of Cornwall's leading food and drink producers displaying and selling their produce.

How can you take part?

With everything from wine and cider producers, to chocolate and cheese makers, fruit and vegetable growers and meat, chutneys, curry and bread all produced in Cornwall you’ll find plenty to delight your taste buds. During the festival some of the town's nationally renowned bars, restaurants and cafés host events such as wine and cheese tastings, fish barbeques and prepare special menus inspired by local produce. You can also take part in coastal walks foraging for edible plants on the way, learn more about the history of St Ives’ fishing industry and find out about old Cornish recipes on guided walks around the town and you can test your culinary knowledge at the food quiz.

Did you know?

In the mid-1800s the exports of pilchards from Cornwall amounted to over 122 million fish while the greatest number ever taken in one catch was an unbelievable 16 million fish at St Ives in 1868.

Location:

St Ives, west Cornwall    - www.stivesfoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk

Often referred to as the gateway to Cornwall, Launceston is the Duchy’s ancient capital. Nestling under the watchful gaze of a fine Norman castle, the town plays host to a festival celebrating the very best in poetry, prose and performing arts.

What happens?

The June bank holiday weekend promises to be lively. The world-class programme features poetry readings, live music, bestselling authors, independent cinema, dramatic presentations and creative writing workshops.

How can you take part?

With most events taking place in Launceston’s historic core, it will be easy to walk from one event to another. Saturday daytime features puppet shows, pirate re-enactments, storytelling and live music – great for the family and all free to watch. Cartoon artists will turn the young (and young at heart) into budding Cap’n Jacks. The evening sees acoustic pop / folk group Black Galleon headline a night of poetry and music.

For those with a more literary bent, former poet laureate Sir Andrew Motion headlines the festival on the Monday. He will read from his new novel and latest poetry, as well as taking questions from the audience. Book fans can share lunch, conversation and drinks with authors such as Patrick Gale, D M Thomas and Katherine Swift.

Did you know?

Launceston son Charles Causley is often described as the best poet laureate the nation never had. Roger McGough, in his poem Two for Charles, said “He sits at the foot of England and tickles its toes!”

More info:

The festival was established in 2006 and embraces the places, people, history, culture and industry connected to this very Cornish river. With its diverse mix of events taking place at dozens of locations around the water, the festival gives a real chance to engage with life on the river and discover some of its fascinating history.

What happens?

The ten day festival is a not-for-profit community festival which encompasses over 150 events ranging from music and drama, arts and heritage to gig racing, swimming and wildlife walks. Throughout the festival you’ll find a range of diverse entertainment, including jazz bands playing on the harbour in St Mawes, film screenings on ferries moored offshore and, of course, plenty of seafood to sample.

How can you take part?

All the action takes place in Falmouth, Truro and around the Roseland Peninsula and thousands of people flock to the area where there are simply loads of events to take part in. Pick up tips from celebrity chefs demonstrating seafood recipes, watch a street theatre performance, listen to a traditional male voice choir, dance the night away to Celtic music or you could even take part in the Castle to Castle swim across the Fal Estuary.

Did you know?

In 2011 the festival raised over £75,000 for charity.  Falmouth harbour is the third largest natural harbour in the world and its strategic location led to the town being established as one of the most important packet ship ports in the UK. From 1689 up until the late 1800s ships from Falmouth carried mail packets to and from British embassies and outposts around the world.

Info:

www.falriverfestival.co.uk  Location: Around the Fal River.

During this event artists and crafts people all over Cornwall throw open the doors to their studios for a week at the beginning of the summer. The event showcases the best art the county has to offer, breaking the mould of traditional Cornish art with visitors able to see a range of contemporary work from the diverse pool of resident artists in the county.

What happens?

The unique event – the brainchild of Creative Skills, a professional development organisation for all creative industries practitioners in Cornwall - takes art lovers on a tour of the unseen Cornwall, visiting working artists in remote cottages and chapels, beachside studios and historic buildings, quite often far from the tourist trail.

How can you take part?

This is an opportunity to meet the artists behind the work, discuss their influences and inspirations and buy their work directly. And whether you’re an art lover or just a curious beginner, the event is an enriching experience for both you and the artists.

Did you know?

In 2011 a record 205 artists and crafts people took part in the event, showcasing the huge range of talent living and working in Cornwall.  Outside London, there are more working artists in Cornwall than anywhere else in the country. For an extensive reference log on to www.cornwallartists.org

Info:

Programme details are available from Tourist Information Centres throughout Cornwall, or visit the Open Studios website to download a programme. - www.creativeskills.org.uk  

Location: Venues all over Cornwall 

For three days each year the dedicated showground at Wadebridge is transformed into a living town, bustling with life, energy, agriculture, entertainment and trade. It is a significant event on the Cornish calendar with around 130,000 people attending.

What happens?

This has been Cornwall’s showcase since it was first held back in 1793 and as you’d expect from a county show, a fascinating glimpse into rural life in the county. Apart from the livestock judging, there is the famous flower tent decked out with wonderful displays from individuals and local nurseries. The main ring offers a full three days of entertainment featuring different headline acts each year, plus show jumping and a fast and furious inter-hunt relay.

There is also a full programme of entertainment and demonstrations in the countryside area, alongside Cornish heritage and Cornish wrestling. You’ll find busy marquees dedicated to goats and rare breeds, cage birds and poultry, bees and rabbits, there’s a major dog show, a traditional steam fair, the Cornwall Festival of Dance, forestry and if that’s not enough then there’s the motor fair, agricultural machinery, crafts, health and beauty, a big funfair ... in fact, something for all the family.

How can you take part?

The show is well attended and there can be traffic queues entering the main car parks, which are plentiful, to the showground. The advice is to get there early. There are simply loads of stalls selling fantastic local food and drink for you to sample straight from the suppliers, a chance to see some sheep shearing close at hand, you can browse the many trade stands (over 1,000 of them), listen to live music and during the three days the show often gets a visit from a member of the royal family.

Did you know?

The Royal Cornwall Show is regarded as one of the last true major agricultural shows in the UK.  The first show held near the Red Lion Inn in Truro over 200 years ago was just a ploughing match between local farmers.

Info:

Opening times/admission www.royalcornwallshow.org/

Location: Wadebridge. Sat nav: PL27 7JE PL27 7JEPL27 7JE PLPLPLPLPLPL27 7JE

The Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival was founded in 2003 by Falmouth Shout, a group of singers whose mission is to keep alive the history of Tall Ships and the days of sail by performing sea shanties, songs of the sea and Cornish songs. The Festival’s aims are to raise money for the RNLI and to preserve and promote the maritime heritage of the area.

What happens?

In common with other Celtic nations, Cornish people love singing and music and song has always been an important part of the county’s culture. Whether it be miner, fishermen or farmer, after the work was done, there were always stories to tell, songs to sing and a few pints to drink. The Sea Shanty Festival provides a platform where that heritage of storytelling through song comes alive with live performances by dozens of groups from all over Cornwall, the UK, Holland and France.

How can you take part?

Described as the largest free festival of maritime music on the planet, the three day event kicks off on the Friday evening with singing on Custom House Quay and in Events Square, continuing at several other venues in town until late! It’s a great way to soak up the true atmosphere of Falmouth’s seafaring past and you’ll find it hard to stop your feet tapping along to the infectious rhythms.

Did you know?

The word Shanty probably derived from the French verb to sing “chanter”. With the rhythmic beat keeping the teamwork synchronized, singing shanties helped sailors go about their tasks on board like hauling ropes or raising the anchor.

Info:

www.falmouthshout.com/

Location: Falmouth 

In the late 1800s, Golowan was one of the last surviving midsummer festivals practiced in Cornwall. Traditionally, blazing tar barrels were paraded around the town’s streets and bonfires were lit on the surrounding hills which could be seen all around Mounts Bay and beyond. In the 1890s the authorities in Penzance outlawed the festival due to the increasing fire risk and the centuries’ old festival died out. Revived in 1991, The Golowan Festival has today become the most colourful community festival in the South West, blending Cornish tradition with contemporary imagery and ritual.

What happens?

The festival brings the past and present together in a community celebration of the traditional midsummer Feast of St. John. The ten day festival attracts hundreds of local, national and international artists in a celebration of music and the performing arts along with plenty of entertaining events for the whole family.

How can you take part?

The festival is one big spectacle and to say there is a lot to see and do is probably an understatement. Listen to traditional music played by the Golowan Band, don’t miss Penglaz, the Penzance ‘Obby ‘Oss that makes an appearance on St John’s Eve and you can take part in the Serpent Dances when everyone joins hands and snakes through the streets. There’s also the Quay Fair where you’ll find stalls selling local food, arts and crafts, the fun Mock Mayor Elections and the Summer Fire celebrations featuring a spectacular firework display. One of the highlights of the festival is Mazey Day when the streets of Penzance are decorated with greenery and locals and school children dressed in colourful costumes parade around the town carrying spectacular sculptures based on local themes including giant fish, ships and pirates.

Did you know?

In 2011 the festival broke the record for the largest number of pirates in one place at the same time, as recognised by the Guinness Book of Records. 8, 734 people arrived on Penzance seafront dressed as Pirates smashing the previous record of 6,166.

For the 2012 Olympic year, Penzance will be hosting the very first Golowan Games. On 24th June, the GOLympics will be held in its very own state-of-the-art stadium, the Penzance Prom.  The organisers are looking for suggestions for the daftest, whackiest games that you would like to see, or, better still, take part in. Look out for Cornish wrestling, the pasty eating race, tossing the hay bale, crazy raft racing, three-legged racing, welly wanging, and much, much more.

Info:

www.golowan.org

Location: Penzance

 

The West of England Bandsmen's festival was established in 1912 when the gramophone was in its infancy and the wireless had not been invented. Back then, live performances were the only opportunity of enjoying music and it was against this backdrop that the idea of a band contest was greeted with such enthusiasm. Now this annual event attracts over 20 bands from all over Cornwall and beyond.

What happens?

For one day, silver bands, brass bands and youth bands descend on the aptly named village of Bugle right in the middle of Cornwall’s clay mining area to compete for the festival’s prestigious awards. Bands are not only judged on their test pieces but also on their standard of marching and overall appearance and bearing.

How can you take part?

The morning of the contest day you can watch the march to the contest ground, initially introduced at the inaugural Festival in 1912 and retained as a popular feature ever since. Throughout the day the open air festival rings out to the stirring sounds of marches, hymns and overtures making it a perfect day out for music lovers. Take a picnic and enjoy the unique atmosphere of one of the most famous brass band contests in the world.

Did you know?

The Royal Trophy, which is awarded to the Championship Section winners, was presented to the Festival in 1913, by the late Duke of Windsor, then Prince of Wales and Duke of Cornwall, and to this day is the only trophy with a royal connection in the brass band world.

Info:

www.webf.co.uk/ 

Location: Bugle, St Austell  

First J-Class Regatta in the UK since the rebirth of the class hosted by the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club in Falmouth. This will be the first time in history that more than four of these imposing yachts will race together in a fleet.

What happens?

Races will be held in Falmouth bay and along the coastline. Around eight J Class yachts, each 140 feet in length, weighing around 200 tons and with a crew of up to thirty are expecting to be ready and prepared to race in June. Enthusiasts from around the world will be coming to Falmouth to view the yachts and watch the racing, which will be reported live around the world. This will be a yachting event not to be missed.

How can you take part?

The restoration of the original old J’s and the construction in Europe of new full sized sailing replicas, is the rebirth of a once largely forgotten class and spectators will be the first in the UK to view this wonderful fleet. The waters around the bay offer exciting courses for the competitors and spectators will have a grandstand view from the many headlands surrounding the course.

Did you know?

In their heyday during the 1930s, the beautiful J Class yachts were the ultimate sailing vessels, reserved for the wealthy elite and idolised by the general public. King George V owned one and was a regular competitor in his yacht Britannia.

Info:

www.jclassfalmouthregatta.com/  

Location: Falmouth bay

2012 will see the return of the prestigious Pendennis Cup, run by local superyacht yard Pendennis every 2 years. There is 4 days of competitive racing for magnificent superyachts out on the waters of Falmouth Bay.

What happens?

Each morning, up to 14 yachts get ready to race in Falmouth Bay.  The 2012 fleet classic and modern sailing yachts totalling a remarkable 450m + in length overall. The largest yacht is Athos which, at 62m, will be an exciting challenger to last year's Cup winner Adela (55.5m). 

The four days of racing are organised by the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club, with the daily battles taking place against the beautiful backdrop of the coastline surrounding the area running from Gull Rock situated off the Roseland Peninsula in the North to the Manacles which are located by the Lizard Peninsula further south. The entrance to the harbour overlooked by the castles of Pendennis and St Mawes will provide a striking finish line for each race. 

How can you take part?

The best vantage points to see the racing is from Pendennis Point and St Anthony Head across the water. The yachts will be moored at Port Pendennis Marina throughout the week and are easily seen from Events Square or from the viewing gallery at the Maritime Museum. The race office on Events Square can give you an overview of the participating yachts, a daily update on the performance of the yachts and the race conditions and they will be screening footage from the previous days' racing.     

Did you know?

• The largest yacht is Athos which, at 62m, an exciting challenger to last year's Cup winner Adela (55.5m) and Mariquita is one of the oldest participants, built in 1911.  You can also expect to see more modern yachts from the Dubois fleet. 
• Pendennis is one of the world’s leading superyacht builders, with a heritage spanning 23 years including over 100 major refit projects and 30 custom new build yachts. 

Info:

www.thependenniscup.com 

Location: Falmouth 

Mousehole’s biennial Sea Salts and Sail Festival revives old traditions and celebrates the heritage of West Cornwall's most famous fishing village, providing a day out for all the family.         

What happens?

The Festival includes traditional maritime craft displays, sea-food cookery demonstrations, heritage walks, tin smelting, historic maritime photo exhibitions and traditional Cornish music. The highlight of the festival (weather permitting) is that on both Saturday and Sunday traditional fishing vessels sail around the bay, unfurling their colourful sails, bringing a poetic insight into what the bay looked like a century ago when all fishing boats relied on the power of the wind to get them out to their fishing grounds.

How can you take part?

This festival really does highlight some fascinating aspects of Cornish heritage and visitors get an insight into many local crafts and traditions. Local chefs from the popular restaurants in Mousehole show off their skills cooking various fish dishes, there are demonstrations in the art of making crab pots in the old traditional way with willow and an evocative exhibition of photographs and memorabilia of Mousehole from 1800’s to present day are on display at the Sunday School. And after you’ve watched the woodturning and kipper smoking get your feet into walking mode by taking a guided tour around the historic village. During the festival live music including male voice choirs, folk bands and sea shanties adds the authentic soundtrack.

Did you know?

It’s believed that Mousehole was the inspiration for Dylan Thomas’s play Under Milk Wood. The author spent his honeymoon in the village in 1938.

Info:

www.seasalts.co.uk             

Location: Mousehole, Penzance           

Lafrowda Festival is an annual event celebrating community arts and first took place in 1996 developing from a music festival into what is now a two week community arts festival. Lafrowda is the ancient name for the church lands where the village of St Just in Penwith stands today. More recently, it has come to stand for community co-operation, a celebration of  local heritage, and a showcase for some of the finest artistic, theatrical and musical talent in the area.

What happens?

A wide range of organisations take part in the festival and there is something happening every day, from music and comedy to drama and dance. One of the highlights of the fortnight is Lafrowda Day takes place on the third Saturday in July. The roads are closed and decorations go up. From hip hop to harmony, from folk to funk, there are twelve hours of free entertainment to suit every taste along with street performers, stalls, refreshments, bouncy castles and, of course, three spectacular processions.

How can you take part?

St just in Penwith is a village full of tradition and Cornish character and with its great family-friendly atmosphere you’ll find lots of events to attend during the festival. There are quizzes, themed workshops, a talent show, dance competitions and live theatre as well as performances by local brass bands, groups and choirs plus an open mike night for comics and singers in the local pub.

Did you know?

At the centre of the village is a Plain-an-Gwarry, an outdoor amphitheatre used in medieval times for performing mystery plays, which now revived, are staged at certain times of the year.

Info:

www.lafrowda-festival.co.uk/

Location: St. Just in Penwith, West Cornwall 

Cornwall’s biggest one day agricultural show has been held annually since the early 1800s on the Feast Day of St Stythians Church, the nearest Monday following the 10th July. The show originally started as a competition between local parishioners to see who could grow the best vegetables, raise the finest cattle and breed the greatest horses. Today the purpose built showground provides a full day out for the whole family.

What happens?

Thousands of people descend on the large showground between Truro and Helston to enjoy musical entertainment, food courts, craft stalls, shopping opportunities around the Showground, a fairground, animals of all sorts including rare breeds, a dog show and dog agility competitions and craft and cookery competitions in the Domestic Marquee. In the Horticultural Marquee, there are splendid flower arrangements and displays of a very high standard.

How can you take part?

This is a show with plenty to see and do. The Taste of Cornwall is the marquee to see and, more importantly, to sample and buy truly local food, drink and produce. Kids will love the fur and feather section full of cute rabbits and clucking chickens. Watch the boundless enthusiasm of the dogs in the agility competition as they literally bounce around the courses. In the Countryside Area you can see craftsmen such as blacksmiths, weavers and beekeepers using traditional skills.  The ever popular Horse Section features approximately sixty classes catering for most equestrian enthusiasts and throughout the day there’s an assortment of entertainment, such as an accordion band, school jazz orchestra, local choirs and line dancing.

Did you know? 

The earliest record of the show comes from a report on the West Briton newspaper of the period which writes “The fair was abundantly supplied with cattle of the best quality and breed, better than we ever witnessed at any former exhibition. There was great competition in horses and especially in colts many of which would have done honour to the first exhibition in the kingdom”

Info:

www.stithiansshow.org.uk 

Location: Stithians
 

One of the UK’s most talked about festivals that attracts a phenomenal mix of celebrities, art lovers, book worms and fun loving party goers. Described as a literary festival, but with the feel of a garden party, mixed eclectically with music, a one-minute disco and an alternative flower show!

What happens?

An incredible array of performers have appeared at Port Eliot over the years – drawn by the festival’s laid-back approach, colourful atmosphere and friendly vibe. Previous festivals have included Jarvis Cocker, Dominic West, surprise visits by Kate Winslet and film programmes curated by Martin Scorsese.  The Port Eliot Festival has also developed a reputation for fantastic food, with the likes of Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, Moro, Skye Gyngell, Rose Prince, Daniel de la Falaise, Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen chefs and Angela Hartnett cooking at the festival over the years.

How can you take part?

The four-day Port Eliot Festival is a magical combination of books, food, music, art, comedy, fashion, films, flowers, wildlife and water, which defies categorisation. Held in the spectacular grounds of the ancient Port Eliot estate in south east Cornwall (the oldest continually inhabited dwelling in the UK), the festival provides inspiration and surprises for all ages at every turn. Over the years new areas have been added, broadening the appeal to younger audiences and others who might never have considered coming to a literary festival before – including the immensely popular Cabaret Tent (where you’ll dance late into the night), the Caught by the River stage and the enchanting House of Fairy Tales.

Did you know?

The first year, 2003, the festival had 17 paying punters and three times as many performers, artists and crew. Word quickly spread among young writers that at last here was a festival at which they could do what they wanted. The following year 1,000 people attended. The rest is, as they say, history.

Info:

www.porteliotfestival.com  

Location: St Germans, Saltash 

A Literary Festival for the local community, its main attractions aren't TV celebrities but interesting people with interesting things to say. With eighty events in small venues, there is something for everyone with a tremendous ‘buzz’ guaranteed!

What happens?

Located at a variety of venues in central Penzance, the five day festival features talks on a wide range of subjects by best-selling writers, panel discussions on topics such as crime writing and writing for children and there’s a variety of workshops where you can pick up tips on novel writing, drama, poetry writing and writing to enhance well-being. In the Cornish tradition there are some wonderful story-tellers in the line-up too. There’ll be authors in conversation, poetry performances and readings, storytelling, a Poetry Picnic, a Big Read, a literary lunch, and lots of events for children.

How can you take part?

A literary festival is all about words. Even if your interests are specialized ones – art, gardens, photography, archaeology, travel, local history, engineering, social reform – you’ll find something for you at this festival. The festival contributors are interesting people who have interesting stories to tell and an interesting take on life. Because the festival’s venues are small, it’s easy for members of the audience to ask questions and contribute to discussions making for a very informal and lively atmosphere.

Did you know?

Penzance’s’ literary numerous connections include number 25 Chapel Street where Maria Branwell, mother of Charlotte, Anne and Emily Bronte once lived, the ancient Admiral Benbow Inn, inspiration for the first few pages of the famous seafaring novel Treasure Island and the Union Hotel where Charles Dickens used to enjoy a drink.

Info:

www.pz-litfest.org.uk

Location: Penzance

Now in its fourth decade, the former Wadebridge, now titled the Cornwall Folk Festival, runs over three days in early August during the summer Bank Holiday mixing local talent with acts from further afield to produce a varied programme of events to suit all tastes. The event draws musicians and fans alike from all over the UK to experience unique Cornish and Celtic musical heritage and dance culture.

What happens?

The festival takes place at various venues in Wadebridge and the whole town is alive to the sound of music. Not only is there an international line up of folk from Cornwall and Brittany to Africa and the USA but you’ll also find singers and instrument workshops, street entertainment, tune sharing sessions and children’s games and face painting.

How can you take part?

Get in the groove and join in the fun at concerts, ceilidhs, sessions and workshops. Cornwall benefits from some of the best weather in the UK but the Folk Festival differs from all others in that there’s the added advantage of all venues being undercover and in the warm. So if it's raining outside there's no problem as you can kick back and listen to some great folk music whilst sampling local Cornish food and enjoying a wide choice of Cornish real ales and ciders.

Did you know?

Wadebridge is home to the Sir John Betjeman centre housed in the old railway station where you’ll find a room dedicated to then former poet laureate with many items of interest about the his life and times spent in Cornwall. Then town is also a hub for the famous Camel Trail one of most successful recreational multi use trails in the UK.

Info:

Web: www.wadebridgefolk.co.uk  Email: millways@btinternet.com 

Location: Wadebridge

Cornwall’s only surf, skate and music festival takes place at two locations. Newquay’s famous Fistral Beach is the main hive and focal point of the Relentless Energy Drink Boardmasters which sees all the action including the surf, skate and BMX competitions and Watergate Bay is home to the music festival.

What happens?

The beachfront at Fistral is transformed into an entertainment hub with activities including surfing, featuring the Men’s Pro 6 star WQS surfing competition, men’s 3 star and women’s 6 star longboarding competition along with the Vans Summer Session Vert skate and BMX mini ramp competitions. The music festival at Watergate Bay has seven stages and in the past has played host to bands such as Leftfield, Plan B, Example, Cypress Hill, Fatboy Slim, Groove Armada and The Streets.

How can you take part?

At Fistral beach during the day there is a host of competitions that are free to watch. You can shop until your heart’s content at the Fistral retail village and there’s the option of quenching your thirst at the Relentless Energy Drink Beach Bar. At Watergate, camping is available just a few minutes walk from the music festival where you can soak up the sea air with your fellow festival-goers in a great, fun and friendly atmosphere.  There’s also range of adrenaline rides on site as well as a classical fairground featuring all your childhood favourites including Coconut Shy, Wave Swinger, Cork Shooter and of course Dodgems.

Did you know?

Surfing initially came to Cornwall after WWI when returning servicemen, having learnt the sport from their South African and Australian comrades, used heavy boards like coffin lids to ride the waves around the coast.

Info:

www.boardmasters.co.uk       

Location: Fistral Beach and Watergate Bay, Newquay   

Henri Lloyd Falmouth Week has grown into the largest sailing regatta in the south west with more than 450 yachts racing over eight days along with a lively programme of shore side events. Overlooking the third largest natural harbour in the world and surrounded by the picturesque beauty of the Carrick Roads waterways, Roseland Peninsula and South Cornish coastline, Falmouth’s amphitheatre-like setting is the ideal locale for visitors to enjoy the spectacle.

What happens?

The week starts with the Falmouth Classics, which sees 150 classic yachts racing in Carrick Roads and Falmouth Bay. This is followed by six days of match racing for keelboats, traditional craft and dinghies in the waters off Falmouth Bay, the Carrick Roads and the harbour. Wednesday is Champagne Day, a race for the big yachts with a 25 mile coastal course finishing in the inner harbour, whilst smaller boats race in the Carrick Roads.

How can you take part?

Apart from watching the exciting sailing on the water, on the shore there are activities to keep everyone entertained from a marching carnival and a firework display to themed party nights and samba bands. In Events Square there’s  daytime artists and Cornish crafts market while in the evening you’ll find a great line up of music acts. There are daily live performances on the Prince of Wales pier featuring music, street theatre and dance, you’ll find a local market in the marquee on The Moor and you can take a fascinating guided history walk around Falmouth. Take a trip on the water to watch the evening gig boat racing close at hand or for the more gung-ho show off your athletic side in The Trident Swim Challenge from Gyllynvase Beach. Activities for the kids include free rock pooling sessions and special events at the National Maritime Museum, Gyllyngdune Gardens, and Pendennis Castle.

Did you know?

Falmouth harbour is the third deepest in the world and has been the starting and ending point of many famous voyages. Darwin’s HMS Beagle returned from famous survey voyage around the world at Falmouth and Sir Francis Chichester set off from the harbour on his record breaking single-handed voyage around the world.

Info:

www.falmouthweek.co.uk/

 Location: Falmouth

Henri Lloyd Falmouth Week 2010 from smart exposure on Vimeo.

This long established rally sees the coming together of almost one hundred full size and miniature steam engines from all over the country.

What happens?

For three days stunning showmen’s engines with their gleaming twisted brass, road rollers, ploughing engines, heavy haulage road locomotives and agricultural traction engines descend on the showground. Lots of steam engine crews having fun driving around the site and showing what the engines were designed to do.

How can you take part?

There is something for all the family with trade stands, a model and craft marquee, vintage cars, tractors, commercial vehicles, steam cars, military vehicles, motorcycles, heavy horses and stationary engines. There is a working and rural section which shows how farm work used to be done in days gone by with a number of demonstrations including wood sawing and threshing, mainly driven by steam. In the main ring you can watch working horse demonstrations, hawking displays and a dog agility show and you can even have a go in the sheaf pitching contest. Brass bands, choirs, Morris men and cloggers provide the music and there is also an old time fun fair along with entertainers around the site to keep the children happy.

Did you know?

The first rally, attended by just six steam engines, took place in 1955 when the nearest full scale rally at that time was over 200 miles away at Andover. Stithians Showground is a purpose built site that also hosts the local agricultural show, the VW Owners Club rally and the Young Farmers County fair.

Info:

www.weses.co.uk

Location: Stithians Showground between Redruth and Falmouth.

For one week each August the usually tranquil town of Fowey attracts thousands of visitors who flock there for the Fowey Royal Regatta, one of Britain’s premier sailing events. It is also a fun-filled week for all the family – sailors and landlubbers alike.

What happens?

One of the highlights is always an amazing display over the harbour by the Red Arrows who have been making an annual appearance at the regatta for over 30 years. Other main events include the Carnival with a colourful parade of floats, walkers in fancy dress and marching bands, a fantastic firework displays over the river, live music on the Town Quay, and of course racing on the water every day – not only the serious stuff, but raft and gig racing as well.

How can you take part?

Over the many years the Regatta has been running, the regatta has attracted many visitors, including Queen Victoria, Prince Albert and Queen Elizabeth II and is recommended as a must see event by Debrett’s, the authority on all matters of taste. Fowey’s location, perched above a magnificent harbour, provides a natural arena to watch the sailing from and in the town’s winding old streets you’ll find plenty of activities to entertain. There’s the traditional crowning of the carnival queen followed by the floral dance, you can compete in the crab catching and swimming competitions, experience the giant pasty ceremony, get caught up in the exuberance of the carnival, watch the magical torch light dinghy procession on the water and spend the evenings on the harbour listening to performances ranging from The Last Night of the Proms to rock.

Did you know?

Fowey’s famous 8 foot long giant pasty ceremoniously makes its way over the harbour from Polruan to the town quay in Fowey by boat, accompanied by the Fowey Town Band, a ramshackle bunch of less than musical musicians. The magnificent culinary offering is then cut and distributed to all the children present.

Info:

www.foweyroyalregatta.co.uk

www.rfyc-fowey.org.uk/

A very simple, back-to-basics competition with no wetsuits, no leashes and no swim fins. A bit of wood and a swimsuit is all you need.

What happens?

The World Bellyboard Championship is held on the first Sunday in September. Organised and hosted by the National Trust, it is a celebration of all things connected with the art of riding traditional wooden boards. No wetsuits, only bathing costumes are allowed which means many competitors arrive in glorious fancy dress and there are several hotly contested heats including the fun Expressions Sessions and the more serious Championship competition. Judges look for the length of ride, wave selection, change of direction, style and the most radical manoeuvres in the most critical part of the wave.

How can you take part?

Whether you plunge into the ocean to take part, spectate from the fantastic setting at Chapel Porth beach or join in the Belly Boarding bake off competition where you can enter your specially made themed cake, a great day of fun and frolics by the sea is guaranteed. You don’t even need to bring money as the entry fee is free!

Did you know? 

Belly boarding is a common sight around the Cornish coast. Riders lay down on their stomachs while riding the waves as opposed to more mainstream surfing when the aim is to stand up      

Info:

www.bellyboarding.co.uk

Location: St Agnes  

Started in 1978, the St Ives September Festival lasts for fifteen days offering a wide range of music, arts and literature events in locations throughout the town, attracting visitors from far and wide.

What happens?

With a full programme of exhibitions, concerts, poetry, walks, talks, workshops, comedy, theatre, plays, stories and film, you can expect a varied mix of performers and artists on the guest list which in the past have included Barbara Dickson, Seth Lakeman, George Melly and Elkie Brooks. There are lots of free entry art exhibitions along with dancers, musicians, shanty crews and performers who entertain in the town’s streets and pubs.  Locally themed plays and musical shows are put on in the theatre, walking tours taking in the area’s history take place throughout the festival and there are drop-in art classes led by professional artists in mediums such as textiles and life drawing.

How can you take part?

St Ives provides the perfect backdrop to this well established festival that has simply dozens of events for visitors to enjoy.  The numerous art classes are a great way to learn something new from some of the country’s leading artists, an eclectic mix of live music from some of the UK’s top singers and bands along with upcoming comedians will keep you entertained, the art talks at the Leach Pottery and Hepworth Gardens give a real insight to St Ives as one of the world’s leading centres for art and the guided walking tours reveal the areas’ social history with a few local ghosts thrown in for good measure.

Did you know?

There are only four Tate Gallery’s in the world and one of them is right here in St Ives. Opened in 1993 in recognition of the international importance of art in Cornwall and St. Ives in particular, the impressive gallery holds hundreds of works produced by the St. Ives School from the late 1800's through to the 21st century.

Info:

www.stivesseptemberfestival.co.uk

Location: St Ives  

The award-winning Veuve Clicquot Polo on the Beach event takes place at Watergate Bay near Newquay, with the promise of speed and excitement featuring some of the country’s top professional polo players.

What happens?

As the first autumn swells begin to pound the beach, surfers give way to ponies for Polo on the Beach - an exhibition match between two teams of top international players. Six professional polo players, one umpire and around thirty horses take to the sands of the famous surfing beach to play four fast-paced chukkas (periods of play lasting six and a half minutes) in a small arena measuring 100m by 50m.

How can you take part?

The match starts at 6.30pm and to help spectators soak up the atmosphere the Veuve Clicquot champagne bar and beach barbeque will be open on the beach from 3pm. Fast, furious and exciting, Polo on the Beach is more intimate than most other polo tournaments as spectators get to all see the action up close and can meet the players afterwards. If you know nothing about the game, don't worry as during the match expert commentators explain the rules and strategy of the game, while summarising the action for the spectators. With its friendly atmosphere, beach barbeque and free entry, the event breaks down the stereotypical view of polo as an elitist sport for the wealthy and is a unique event in Cornwall’s calendar.

* All details are based on the 2011 event.

Did you know? 

Polo dates back to the 5th century BC when Persian cavalry units used the game as a training exercise.

Info:

www.watergatebay.co.uk/events.htm

Location: Watergate Bay, Newquay

Newquay Fish Festival has been running for a decade and gives Newquay an opportunity to showcase one of its hidden gems …its harbour. Growing in popularity each year the festival attracts thousands of visitors over the weekend who sample delicious fish dishes, watch local chefs rustle up amazing food from local produce and enjoy entertainment from Last Night of the Proms to local groups.

What happens?

The practical cookery demonstrations by local chefs are undoubtedly the highlight of the festival, with hotels and restaurants promoting local fresh fish and shellfish and locally available produce. In addition to the purely ‘fish’ related elements, the festival has a number of trade stands promoting Cornish produce and crafts, together with a hospitality area and a range of entertainment from local choirs and bands to a sandcastle competition and ‘fishy’ encounters organised by the town’s Blue Reef Aquarium.

How can you take part?

The food, craft and arts tents bring together the best of Cornwall's local produce where you can sample everything from traditional pasties and Cornish cakes to curry, crepes and chocolate fountains while on the harbour quay there’s an all-day fish barbecue serving fresh battered fish available free for a small donation to the Fisherman's Mission. There’s a chance to taste the results of the flamboyant cookery demonstrations, learn how to fillet a fish, listen to a few sea shanties, watch some street theatre and dancing on the harbour and join in the open air ‘Songs of Praise’ at the harbour on Sunday evening which ends the festival.

Did you know?

Newquay’s Huer’s Hut, a white washed centuries old building perched on the cliff above the harbour, was once used to spot pilchard shoals out to sea. The Huer would then alert fishermen of their arrival by shouting “Heva, Heva”

Info:

www.newquayfishfestival.co.uk/

Location: Newquay 
 

Watch a short video from the 2010 festival, please note the dates at the end of the film are from 2010, this year it's held from September 14-16.