Helston Flora Day (also known as the Furry Dance) is an annual festival of dancing and merriment which celebrates the coming of spring-time. Its origins aren't totally clear but it certainly dates back beyond Christian times.

It takes place this year (2010) on Saturday 8th May.

The opening dance takes place at 7am and the festivities build throughout the day to include an enactment of St. George slaying the dragon, a children's dance at 10am, principal dance at noon (the 'main event'), and finally the Flora Dance at 5pm.

The dancers dress in Elizabethan finery and are lead through the town's streets and gardens by Helston Town Band.

Arguably the highlight of the West Cornwall social calendar, this is a buzzing event that attracts Kernowphiles from around the world.

Due to the extreme popularity of Helston Flora Day, visitors are advised to park outside the town or use public transport.

And please, beware the Spingo! (notoriously potent local Ale.)