Happy St. Piran's Day!
St. Piran’s Day (March 5th) is the national day of Cornwall, celebrating St. Piran, the patron saint of Cornwall and tin miners. The day is marked with processions, parades, and Cornish cultural events, all featuring the black-and-white St. Piran’s flag—a symbol of Cornwall’s identity.
Who Was St. Piran?
Legend says that St. Piran was an Irish abbot who, after being thrown into the sea with a millstone around his neck (as punishment for performing miracles), miraculously floated across to Cornwall. He landed near **Perranporth** and built a small chapel in the dunes. There, he discovered tin smelting when a black rock in his fire leaked a pure white metal—hence the inspiration for the Cornish flag: a white cross on a black field (symbolizing tin flowing from the dark earth). My Great great Grandfather, Thomas Tinney, emigrated to Canada about 1860, as a boy, whith his family.
How is St. Piran’s Day Celebrated?
- Parades and Processions – The biggest events happen in Truro, Penzance, and Perranporth, where crowds wave flags, sing Cornish songs, and celebrate their heritage.
- The Perranporth Pilgrimage – A traditional walk to St. Piran’s Oratory in the dunes.
- Cornish Music and Dance – Choirs and bands play traditional Cornish tunes.
- Feasting on Cornish Delights – Expect plenty of Cornish pasties, cream teas, and a few pints of Tribute or Doom Bar ale!
St. Piran’s Day is a joyous celebration of Cornish identity, language, and heritage—a day when Cornwall’s past and future come together in proud festivity.
Gool Peran Lowen! 🎉