'Obby 'Oss festival
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Padstow, in Cornwall, UK is internationally famous for its traditional 'Obby 'Oss festival (slang for Hobby Horse festival). Held annually on 1 May, its origins are unclear, but most likely stems from an ancient fertility rite, perhaps the Celtic festival of Beltane. The festival starts at midnight on May Eve when Padstonians sing the "Morning Song".
In the morning, the town is dressed with greenery, flowers and flags with the centrepoint being the maypole. The climax arrives when male dancers cavort through the town dressed as one of two 'Obby 'Osses, the "Old" and the "Blue Ribbon" 'Obby 'Osses. As the name suggests the costumes are stylised recreations of horses. Accompanied by drums and accordions and prodded on by acolytes known as "Teasers", each 'Oss is adorned by a gruesome mask and black frame-hung cape under which they try to catch young maidens as they pass through the town.
The celebrations continue throughout the day until finally at midnight, the crowd sings of the 'Obby 'Oss death, until its resurrection the following May Eve.
