Plough Monday

Plough Monday is celebrated this year on January 13th. This lively day falls on the first Monday after January 6th, which Christians recognize as the Twelfth Night. Originating from old British harvest customs, Plough Monday signifies the beginning of the farming season. Traditionally, it was a joyous occasion for farm laborers who paraded through villages with a plow, entertaining with songs and dances. The aim? To collect funds. Those who weren’t generous risked having their gardens plowed over. Revelers often smeared soot on their faces to hide their identities. While this unique festival nearly vanished in the 18th century, it still persists in regions like East Anglia and the East Midlands.

History of Plough Monday

The roots of Plough Monday are found in East Anglia and the East Midlands, where it was once a widespread celebration. This day marked the return of laborers to the fields following their unpaid Christmas break, as there was little farm work to be done in winter. They would go around seeking ‘donations’ from wealthier neighbors, like the village Squire, shouting “Penny for the plowboys!” as they dragged a plow. To conceal their identities, they blackened their faces with soot. Those villagers who refused to contribute risked having their gardens plowed in jest. The plowboys were often accompanied by a colorful crew, including The Fool, a character dressed like an animal and wielding a pig’s bladder on a stick. Molly dancers, who also painted their faces with soot, sometimes joined the group to perform and earn money. In earlier times, communities performed plays on Plough Monday, akin to Christmas Mummers Plays, which were popular in the East Midlands, Lincolnshire, and Nottinghamshire. These plays often depicted the death and rebirth of main characters.

Plough Monday is held on the first Monday after Epiphany (January 6th) or the Twelfth Night. Today, it’s mostly associated with Molly dancing and plays. Maldon in Essex is one of the best places to experience the celebrations annually. Additionally, Exeter and Durham cathedrals host a Blessing the Plough service on the Sunday before Plough Monday.

Plough Monday Timeline

1400s: After church blessings, farmers resume work with their plows on Plough Monday.
1800s: Plough Monday traditions decline in most UK towns.
1800s: The Whittlesey Straw Bear Festival features men dressed in straw, becoming popular at Plough Monday.
1972: Balsham revives Plough Monday to honor its rural heritage.

Plough Monday Activities

Join the festivities: Visit smaller towns like Maldon, Durham, and Exeter to witness traditional celebrations and explore some of Britain’s unique locales.
Support local farmers: Stop by a farmers’ market for fresh produce and perhaps treat your local farmers to coffee and muffins.
Farm visit: Plan a fun day or weekend trip to a farm with your family to gain a deeper appreciation for how food is grown and the people who grow it.

5 Intriguing Facts About Plough Monday

Christian origins: Plows were blessed and candles lit in churches to invoke blessings for farmers.
Disguises worn: Farm workers not only sooted their faces but also dressed in women’s clothing with straws to appear as women.
Dancing included: Workers participated in Molly dancing, a form of English folk dance, in eccentric costumes.
Disapproval faced: In the 19th century, Plough Monday was considered a ‘degrading custom’ promoting “criminal activity.”
Two key characters: ‘Bessy’ was a man in women’s attire, while the ‘Fool’ wore animal skins; both solicited money.

Why We Love Plough Monday

Tradition preservation: It’s heartening to see old traditions endure, as many have faded, taking parts of our heritage with them.
Gratitude for farmworkers: Beyond the fun antics, Plough Monday is a time to appreciate those who toil the soil, doing one of the toughest jobs.
Community bonding: This quirky festival unites people from all walks of life.

Plough Monday Dates