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September • Staffordshire, England

Abbots Bromley Horn Dance

Dating back to at least 1226, the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance is one of the oldest surviving English folk traditions. Held every September in Staffordshire, six men carrying massive reindeer antlers dance through the village accompanied by characters like Maid Marian and a Hobby Horse. Today we're debating the power of folklore—why do we keep these bizarre, ancient rituals alive in the age of the internet? Is it about heritage, or just an excuse for a village party?

Abbots Bromley Horn Dance Lesson Visual

Speaking Discussion

  • Why do you think a village would continue a dance for 800 years without stopping?
  • Is folklore important for a modern national identity, or is it just a tourist attraction?
  • How does your culture preserve its ancient rituals and old stories?
  • If you saw six men dancing with reindeer antlers in your street, what would your first reaction be?
  • Do you think small-town traditions are under threat from global digital culture?

Activity 1: The Festival Founder

You are a Community Leader. Your town has no traditions. Invent a "Bizarre" new ritual that people will still be doing in 500 years. Explain it using the word "Heritage".

Activity 2: Rapid Fire Debate

Justify your answer in 30 seconds:

  • "Old traditions are more important than new technology."
  • "English folk dancing is the most eccentric thing in Europe."
  • "Folklore is the DNA of a country."