Taking place every June, this fabulously noisy event welcomes shanty bands and singers from all over Europe and the UK to perform on stages throughout the seaside town of Falmouth. It’s a free event and perfect for families, as you can wander through the town at your own pace and really soak up the festival atmosphere.
Sea shanties were originally work songs used on Clipper ships and trading vessels as they travelled across the globe. They brought a sense of comradeship, and the rhythm often went in line with heavy chores, such as hauling in rope. Ship men would also complain to each other through shanties about working conditions, as they could not be told off by Officers because they would say ‘it was a song they had learnt’. There is a great history and tradition around these songs and the festival is a celebration of them.
The hub of the festival is on Events Square in the centre of the town, but take a stroll and you’ll stumble across groups performing outside pubs, on quays and on the high street. There are fab places to eat and drink (take a look here for more information) whilst there are great independent shops to be found throughout Falmouth.
This year’s festival will take place from Friday 14th to Sunday 16th June 2024.
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