St DAVIDS is all set to celebrate its annual Pilgrim Parade on May 29, with the return of the much-loved giant puppet of Dewi Sant. The event promises to be a spectacular one, with a medieval marketplace, traditional skills demos, guided walks, film screenings, and performances.
The parade is part of the Ancient Connections project, which celebrates the historical and future links between north Wexford and north Pembrokeshire. The project is coming to a close, and the parade will also mark the launch of the Wexford-Pembrokeshire Pilgrim Way.
Last year, the St David puppet stole the show at the parade, and this year, the 3m-tall puppet will make its way through the town alongside a new 6m-long sea monster. Created by Small Theatre, the giant puppet is sure to delight visitors of all ages.
According to Rowan Matthiessen, Ancient Connections Project Manager, “The Fayre is going to be an absolute feast for the senses and should be a fantastic bank-holiday day out for all the family. Small World Theatre never fails to disappoint in creating something fun and engaging for all.”
The medieval event will showcase some of the finest wares the area has to offer, including award-winning food and drink made from locally sourced ingredients. Visitors can also look forward to surprise pop-up performances by mischief makers, meandering minstrels, and holy relic sellers.
The parade will be led by colourful costumes created by pupils from Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi, and will culminate at the grounds of St Davids Cathedral. Along the way, Saint David will visit the giant bee skeps created by artist Bedwyr Williams.
Other highlights of the event include guided pilgrim walks, a massed choir performance in the Cathedral led by Span Arts’ choir Côr Pawb, a traditional skills demonstration marquee run by the Tywi Centre, and a programme of artists’ films and documentaries screened in the vaults of the Bishop’s Palace.
The day will end with an open-air concert of ancient music from Wales and the Celtic nations, performed by renowned folk musicians Julie Murphy, Ceri Rhys Matthews, and Jess Ward.
Ancient Connections is funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Ireland Wales co-operation programme and led by Pembrokeshire County Council, together with partners Wexford County Council, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, and Visit Wexford.
