Originally a small fishing village, the most westerly town of Cornwall, Penzance, has grown over the centuries into a large, vibrant town and an exceedingly popular tourist destination.
The annual Golowan Festival takes place in Penzance in mid June, offering an eclectic programme of open-air theatre, musical performances and a vibrant fun fair. The event runs for a full week and encompasses the quirky Mazey Day Parades where locals and tourists can witness colourfully decorated floats and be entertained by a host of street performers including musicians, storytellers and choirs.
Many visitors pay a special visit for the Newlyn Fish Festival held on the late-August bank holiday weekend. Celebrating Cornwall’s rich fishing heritage and associated culture, the event features produce stalls, RNLI demonstrations and plenty of live musical entertainment.
In December, Penzance’s Montol Festival comprises six days of events celebrating Cornish traditions and the midwinter solstice. Visitors will be treated to a collection of carol concerts, mummers’ plays (traditional English folk performances), lantern and mask-making workshops, and strolling bands.
All year round, Penzance’s charming Acorn Theatre plays host to a range of creative performances including theatre, dance, music, films and choirs. Occupying a beautiful former Wesleyan Methodist chapel, the venue holds a special place in the hearts of locals and regular visitors alike.
Fans of digging up historical curiosities about Cornwall should pay a visit to Penlee House Gallery and Museum, where fascinating exhibits tell stories of Cornish heritage as well as offering talented artists a platform to showcase their work.
Thu 5th Dec, 2024
The Acorn, Penzance
£17 — £19
Fri 6th Dec, 2024
Morrab Library, Penzance
£15 — £15
Fri 6th Dec, 2024
Morrab Library, Penzance
£15 — £15
Fri 6th Dec, 2024
The Acorn, Penzance
£20 — £25
Sat 7th Dec, 2024
The Acorn, Penzance
Sun 8th Dec, 2024
Geevor Mine, Penzance
Sat 7th Dec, 2024 — Sun 8th Dec, 2024
Newlyn School of Art, Penzance
£75 — £75
Book NowSat 7th Dec, 2024 — Sun 8th Dec, 2024
Newlyn School of Art, Penzance
£75 — £75
Book NowSun 8th Dec, 2024
The Acorn, Penzance
£18 — £20
Wed 11th Dec, 2024
The Acorn, Penzance
£15 — £18
Fri 13th Dec, 2024
The Acorn, Penzance
£15 — £17
Sat 14th Dec, 2024
The Acorn, Penzance
£20 — £25
Sun 15th Dec, 2024
St Thomas' Church, Penzance
Fri 29th Nov, 2024 — Sun 15th Dec, 2024
Trengwainton Garden, Penzance
£0 — £8
Book NowSun 15th Dec, 2024
The Acorn, Penzance
£9 — £12
Mon 16th Dec, 2024
The Artist Reseidence, Penzance
£20 — £20
Wed 18th Dec, 2024
High Street Methodist Church, Penzance
Fri 20th Dec, 2024
Morrab Library, Penzance
£10 — £10
Fri 20th Dec, 2024
Morrab Library, Penzance
£10 — £10
Wed 18th Dec, 2024 — Fri 20th Dec, 2024
The Acorn, Penzance
£13 — £15