We had a wonderful Beltane event with beautiful weather, bountiful blossom on the trees, wonderful live music, poetry and plenty of dancing around our new maypole. Plus a Nature Reserve walk, seed and plant swap, kids activities and story telling with the St Ives Library with Fred on his accordian. Phil Heasman together with his street organ ‘Rosamundo’ and a bevy of scarecrows greeted everyone on their arrival. The Scarecrows were all made at a workshop the previous week with over 25 scarecrows made.
A beautiful arch was made and covered with spring flowers which made a wonderful entrance to a magical world where it felt like we had gone back in time.
Beltane Maypole
There was a wonderful mix of musicians and performances from Global Jamming, Jo Doyle & Natasha Jones, the Petty Criminals, the orchard’s own band – the Core-chestra and Rosana Cox doing some poetry. The maypole recently made by Phoebe Sampson was enjoyed and danced around many times.
As the evening drew closer a fire was lit and marshmallows handed around, a hot stew and plenty of cake was available from the Core Cafe and the orchard’s own cider plus ales from the local Mine brewery were enjoyed at the bar.
We were very lucky to have two talented photographers there:
This was written by Robin of the Hood Photography when he shared some of his photos of the day:
Beltane at St Ives Community Orchard – 3rd May 2025 
On a beautiful spring day, the St Ives Community Orchard came alive with colour, music, and tradition as we celebrated Beltane—an ancient festival marking the height of spring and the coming of summer. The day was filled with joy, community spirit, vibrant costumes, dancing, and ritual. From maypole dances to fire symbolism, it was a heartfelt celebration of nature, renewal, and connection.
I had the pleasure of photographing the event, and I’m excited to share a selection of moments that capture the energy and beauty of the day. Every town would benefit massively from a community orchard.
Here are some of his photos:
West Penwith Photography also took some stunning photos and wrote this: Saturday brought a wonderfully relaxed family Beltane celebration at the St Ives Community Orchard & Nature Reserve, which looked stunning in full spring bloom. With a traditional Maypole, lively music, and plenty of cider, the day had all the makings of a perfect seasonal gathering.
More photos from various people:
Phil & Rosamundo the street organ in our new rock teaching garden greeting people on arrival.
