Cornish Gorsedd / Gorsedh Kernow

The Cornish Gorsedd is an annual assembly of bards, in which Cornish language and culture are celebrated in a similar fashion to the National Eisteddfod of Wales. Founded over 100 years ago, the ceremonies are held at a different location in the county each year so that everyone gets a turn to have one on their doorstep. The Cornish bards wear special blue robes with much symbolic regalia and decoration, and there are bards from the fields of literature, music, sports and leisure ,and social and economic activities, who have all contributed to the Cornish identity. New bards are proposed and seconded by existing members and their candidature is debated by the Gorsedd Council, before their acceptance into the Order as part of the Gorsedd. The day begins with the sounding of the Horn of the Nation and the following ceremony involves blessings, offerings of fruits of the earth, commemoration of deceased bards and the initiation of new ones, speeches, awards, music and song. Suitably Cornish refreshments will be available!

Helpful Hints

The ceremony is held on the first Saturday in September each year, and the location varies annually. Other events are organised to fit in around the ceremony on the Saturday including literary festivities and concerts. All are welcome to attend – you don’t need to be invited or a member of any organisation to come along.

In 2024 it should be on Saturday September 7th- location yet to be announced.

Click here for the event website: http://gorsedhkernow.org.uk

and here for the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/gorsedhkernow/