Mevagissey Shanty Festival is run entirely by volunteers, brought together by a shared love of the sea, shanty singing and Mevagissey. Each year, we create a joyful weekend of shanties, with talented groups singing for the sheer pleasure of it — while also supporting our local economy during the quieter months and raising funds for projects that benefit our community.

Over one lively weekend, 20 venues across Mevagissey and neighbouring Pentewan ring out with song. We believe shanties are for everyone, so all performances are free to attend.

In Mevagissey, everything happens within 150 metres of the harbour and our Keltek Brewery–sponsored main stage marquee, creating the friendly, close-knit buzz that makes the festival feel so special. In Pentewan, venues are just an easy stroll apart on flat ground, and a free shanty shuttle bus runs between the two villages so you can enjoy it all.

It’s a celebration of song, sea and the unique spirit of Mevagissey.

Mevagissey Shanty Festival — proudly for One and All. Onan hag oll.

St Ives Shanty Shout is organised in collaboration with the Edward Hain Centre.

St Ives Shanty Shout was started in 2016 by members of Bamaluz Bootleggers. They invited some friends to come and sing with them and raise some money for a good cause. 

Bamaluz Bootleggers might not sing together anymore and venues have come and gone along the way, but the core idea proved to be very popular and is now an annual event.