A Cornish Sea Shanty Festival is a vibrant celebration of Cornwall’s rich maritime heritage, brought to life through rousing songs, traditional music, and a strong sense of community spirit.
Sailors once sang sea shanties to maintain rhythm and high morale while working aboard ships.
Today, they’re sung with passion and pride to keep our coastal culture alive.
At a festival like ours on The Lizard Peninsula, you’ll hear everything from heart-thumping harmonies to tear-jerking ballads, performed by local shanty groups and special guests.
It’s a chance to sing along, tap your feet, and soak up the salty soul of Cornwall.
But it’s not just about the music — it’s about people coming together in the spirit of community.
You’ll find family-friendly, live performances, local food and drink, lots of laughter, and a strong sense of togetherness .
Whether you’re a lifelong local or visiting for the first time, a Cornish Sea Shanty Festival is a joyful, unforgettable way to celebrate Cornwall’s seafaring past — and its thriving creative present.
The Lizard Sea Shanty Festival isn’t just another music event — it’s a celebration of community, culture, and Cornwall’s proud maritime spirit at the very edge of the land in the southernmost part of Britain.
“Our festival is for everyone, which is why we’ve taken extra care to make it accessible — from step-free pathways to friendly support on hand.
We aim to create a welcoming space for all.”
The Lizard Sea Shanty Festival wouldn’t be what it is today without the support of our wonderful sponsors. St Austell Breweries have been with us since we first set sail in 2023, standing proudly by our side as the festival has grown from strength to strength.
In their own words:
“St Austell Brewery is proud to sponsor the Lizard Sea Shanty Festival – a brilliant local event supporting an incredible cause. With deep roots in the South West, we’re always keen to celebrate the community spirit, coastal heritage and vital work of The Lizard RNLI Lifeboat Station, The Community Group and Landewednack Primary School.”
This year, we are thrilled to welcome Cornish Cottages aboard as a key sponsor. Their 40+ years of experience in local holiday letting and unwavering commitment to supporting community initiatives make them the perfect partner as we continue to celebrate Cornwall’s music, culture, and coastal spirit.
This year, we have been joined by many local businesses who have chosen to support our event, and we couldn’t be more grateful.
Every sponsor – from the largest company to the smallest local shop – plays a part in bringing people together, celebrating the best of The Lizard, and helping us take sea shanties and Cornish culture into schools, care homes, and the wider community.
Run by volunteers with passion and heart. Every penny raised goes back into the festival and the local area.
Set in the unique landscape of The Lizard Peninsula, our festival is rooted in local history, storytelling, and genuine hospitality.
We believe that everyone deserves to experience the joy of sea shanties, regardless of income or background.
As part of our new community outreach programme we are taking the joy on shanties into residential care homes and schools on The Lizard Peninsula
Locals, visitors, solos, duets, small and large groups, beginners and seasoned singers. It’s not about perfection — it’s about connection.
