Salisbury St George’s Day Celebrations

St George’s feast is celebrated particularly enthusiastically in the ancient city of Salisbury, where Sarum Morris lead the festivities, sometimes with Christopher the Giant and always with Hob-Nob, a rather sinister dragon hobby-horse figure with snapping jaws and sharp teeth who clears the way ahead. There have been giants in processions in the city since medieval times (you can still see the fragile retired figures of the original figures of old Christopher and Hob-Nob in the Museum) and Morris Dancers have been active there since the sixteenth century. Christopher towers over the crowds and dancers below. The day starts with a procession from the Guildhall, led by local Civic dignitaries accompanied by the dancers and other performers; later in the day expect a play of George & the Dragon and plenty of other related entertainments.

Helpful Hints

The event takes place on a Sunday near to St George’s Day rather than always on 23rd April itself. In 2024 it should be on Sunday April 28th.

Click here for Sarum Morris’ Facebook page : https://www.facebook.com/sarummorris/

Click here for the city Council : http://www.salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk

Click here for the Museum’s information about Hob Nob and Christopher: http://www.salisburymuseum.org.uk/collections/medieval-salisbury/giant-and-hob-nob