Peel Beach Gears Up for Fiery Festival of Folklore

Peel Beach is about to get seriously lit this weekend — and not just because the sun might make an appearance.

That’s right, the Oie Voaldyn Fire and Folk Festival is back with a bang (and actual fireworks), celebrating all things Celtic, Viking, and unapologetically Manx.

Named after the traditional Manx customs marking the eve of May, when the island bids farewell to winter and cautiously welcomes summer, Oie Voaldyn is your one-stop folklore fiesta.

Think live music, ancient myths, big flames and kids in adorable costumes. Yes, please.

Last year’s event sadly fizzled out thanks to a lack of sponsorship, but like any good Manx legend, it wasn’t gone for good.

This time round, local jewellery legends Element Isle (based at Tynwald Mills in St John’s) have swooped in to save the day – and the festival is now sparkling back to life on Sunday, May 4.

Festivities will kick off from 2pm this Sunday.

While you soak up the sounds, you’ll also find storytelling taking place on the beach and the ‘Cod and Castle’ craft tent flinging open its flaps for anyone feeling creative.

From 4 to 5pm, the island’s youngest seasonal spirits take centre stage during the ‘Oie Voaldyn Beg’, a joyful parade of kids dressed as winter and summer, marching from Fenella Beach to Weatherglass Corner in full costume.

At 6pm, some familiar Manx folklore faces will be making an appearance, with the likes of Fynoderee, Teeval, Tarroo Ushtey, Glashtyn and even the legendary Moddey Dhoo turning up to say hello.

The main event begins at 9pm, when a ceremonial fire will be lit on Peel Hill to mark the festival’s fiery finale.

As the flames rise, the sky will be lit up again at 10pm with a full firework display – just in case things weren’t dramatic enough already.

Festival organiser John Shakespeare said: ‘We want people to experience the magic of Oie Voaldyn and become part of something really special.’

He added that the festival is a family-friendly event with something for everyone, whether you’re into Manx music, language, culture, or just like setting your Sunday night ablaze in style.