What is ‘Lafrowda’?

Lafrowda is the ancient name for the church lands where St Just in Penwith stands today. More recently, it has come to stand for community co-operation, celebrating local heritage, and a showcase for some of the finest artistic, theatrical and musical talent around.

How long has Lafrowda existed?

The first Lafrowda Festival took place in 1996. It has developed from a music festival into a two week community arts festival.

When does Lafrowda Day take place and what happens?

Lafrowda Day is always the third Saturday in July. The roads are closed, the decorations go up. From hip hop to harmony, from folk to funk, we’ve twelve hours of free entertainment to suit every taste and, of course, three spectacular processions. All this, and street performers, stalls, refreshments, bouncy castles, and a great family-friendly atmosphere.

How much does Lafrowda Day cost?

Once again we’re doing it all – the workshop programmes, the festival week and the big day for under £20,000. We are fortunate to have a very generous community, and benefit from hundreds of hours of volunteer time. Approximately half our expenditure goes on the educational programme. The remainder is for the festival and covers performers’ fees, administration, printing, security, insurance, licences, staging, etc.

Where does the money come from?

We have funding from St Just Town Council, and local sponsors and advertisers, supplemented by street collections, fees from stall-holders, fundraising events and in-kind donations. Contributions from the schools, grants and donations fund the education programme.

What sort of organisation is the Lafrowda Festival?

The Lafrowda Festival is a registered charity whose objects are to advance education in art and culture in the St Just and surrounding area. We run educational workshops in which the processional sculptures, banners and lanterns are made, where local schools and community groups work with professional artists.

What happens during Festival Fortnight?

Lafrowda provides an opportunity for local groups to showcase the wealth of creative talent in the St Just area. A wide range of organisations take part and there is something happening every day, from music and comedy to drama and dance. See www.lafrowda-festival.co.uk for details of this year’s programme as they become available.

Who runs the Lafrowda Festival/Lafrowda Day?

The Festival is run by a committee of volunteers. The chair of the Trustees and the organising committee is Jonathan Hancock. We have a core team of around ten, supported by scores of volunteers and well-wishers. The festival is run in close consultation with relevant local authorities.

Where do I get further information?

Media enquiries – Kevin Godden:  press@lafrowda-festival.co.uk
General enquiries – email to info@lafrowda-festival.co.uk