Padstow May Day or 'Obby' Oss Day as it is known outside of Padstow is the biggest day of the year for the local community. It takes place annually on the 1st May or the 2nd May if the 1st falls on a Sunday and it is not unusual for more than 30,000 people to be crammed into this quaint town.

The historical origins of Obby Oss have many conflicting theories which have been lost in the midst of time but it is thought to celebrate the arrival of spring and may even have been an ancient fertility festival.

Padstonians from all over the world return to their childhood roots to celebrate with their family and friends on this important day. Those born in the town traditionally dress in white, with family loyalties dictating whether they follow the original Oss coloured red, or the peace Oss coloured blue. Both Oss' are similar in appearance and perform a dancing ritual accompanied by a fascinating folk song which is unique to the area around Padstow; the narrow streets and the harbour.

The local community spend the night before decorating the town's streets with flags, flowers and greenery complete with a festive maypole. The celebrations start at 10am with the blue Oss making its first appearance from its stable, followed at 11am by the appearance of the red Odd from its home. The celebrations continue all day until the Oss' finally go to bed around 10pm.

If you are interested in joining in the festivities this year, Cornish Horizons Holiday Cottages based in Padstow have a great selection of properties available to book NOW!

18 Glynn Road is a gorgeous four star gold property situated in Padstow which sleeps six people. This beautifully presented property offers the perfect holiday accommodation for any time of the year. To the rear of the property is a sheltered patio area to enjoy, which makes the ideal space for barbecues or relaxing with a glass of wine in the summertime. W/c 26th April (which covers Wednesday 1st May) is currently priced at £499. The hyperlink for this webpage on our website is: http://www.cornishhorizons.co.uk/properties/padstowarea/18_glynn_road

Mayflower Cottage is an attractive three star gold property which sleeps four people and is only a 10 minute walk into Padstow; situated in a quiet setting with the benefit of allocated parking and boasting a south facing patio garden offering views across open countryside. The cottage has modern furnishings, a very well equipped kitchen and tasteful, comfortable accommodation throughout. W/c 26th April (which covers Wednesday 1st May) is currently priced at £415. The hyperlink for this webpage on our website is: http://www.cornishhorizons.co.uk/properties/padstowtown/mayflower_cottage

Both these magnificent properties have a selection of weeks available throughout 2013, to book visit www.cornishhorizons.co.uk, call 01841 533331 or email cottages@cornishhorizons.co.uk.

For PR or Press enquiries contact Catherine Coad on above or catherine@cornishhorzions.co.uk.

Cornish Horizons Holiday Cottages is a family-run cottage letting agency based in Padstow, Cornwall. With a portfolio of over 200 properties covering the North Coast of Cornwall and surrounding areas.