Thanks to the continuing work of Old Cornwall Societies, the tradition
of lighting ‘beacon’ bonfires on Midsummer’ Eve (23rd June) has remained
a strong Cornish tradition. Originally lit as a form of Pagan ceremony,
the tradition was later adopted by the church for ‘Golowan’ or Gol – Jowan
(Feast of St John). The Beacons lit on Midsummer’s Eve can be seen each
year across Cornwall, from Chapel Carn Brea to Kit Hill, a spectacular
piece of living history. Information taken from - ‘The Cornish Midsummer
Eve Bonfire Celebrations’ Cyril Noall (2003).
