Montol is Penzance’s midwinter celebration, held on the winter solstice (21 December). A lantern procession winds through the town’s streets, Guise dancers in traditional costumes perform ancient rituals, bonfires are lit on the promenade, and the Mock Mayor of Penzance holds court from the balcony of the Union Hotel.
The festival revives old Cornish midwinter traditions - chalking, wassailing, Guise dancing - that had largely died out by the 20th century. Community groups, schools, and local artists build the lanterns in workshops during the weeks before. By late afternoon the procession forms on Chapel Street and moves through the town centre to the waterfront, where the bonfire is lit and music continues into the evening.
The Guise dancers are the centrepiece - masked and costumed figures performing traditional steps that predate any written record. The Mock Mayor ceremony is a piece of satire that changes each year, and the Cornish language is used throughout the announcements and songs.
Visitor Information
When: 21 December (winter solstice). The procession typically starts around 4pm as darkness falls. Bonfires and music continue until late evening.
Cost: Free to attend. Some workshops and ticketed events run in the days beforehand - check the website.
Getting there: Penzance is on the main GWR line from London Paddington. The festival is centred on Chapel Street and the Promenade - both walkable from the train station in 5 minutes.
Where to Stay
December in Penzance is quieter than summer, so availability is usually good. The Blue House sleeps six across three bedrooms, dog-friendly with sea views. Song of the Sea sleeps five with a BBQ and town centre access. Mackerel Sky is a three-bedroom cottage in central Penzance, walkable to the festival route.
