- Categories:
- Cultural
- Tags:
- Cultural HolidaysFun
- Where:
- United Kingdom
- Date change rule:
- Second Monday of January
- Holiday emoji:
- 🚜
Plough Monday kicks off the agricultural season every second Monday of January, a centuries-old British tradition. Join in the revelry as communities revive Morris dancing, parade decorated plows, and celebrate the land. Discover its unique history and how to participate in this vibrant cultural observance.
Want to sponsor Plough Monday? Learn how
Expected Plough Monday Deals
While specific Plough Monday promotions are rare due to its regional nature, history shows local pubs and heritage sites often embrace the spirit of the day. Expect traditional British fare and real ale specials at establishments like Greene King or Wetherspoons. Agricultural supply stores might offer small discounts on tools or seeds, and rural craft markets could feature themed goods. Historic farms and museums, such as those managed by the National Trust, may host special events or demonstrations. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as January approaches.
Platform Guide for Plough Monday
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #PloughMonday. Share photos and videos of Morris dancers, decorated plows, and community celebrations.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #PloughMonday. Film short clips of traditional dances, folk music, or the quirky customs associated with the day.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #PloughMonday. Share news, event announcements, and historical facts about this unique British tradition.
Plough Monday Hero
The Morris Dancer
History of Plough Monday
The origins of Plough Monday go back to East Anglia and the East Midlands, where the celebrations were popular. Traditionally, Plough Monday was when workers returned to the farm after an unpaid Christmas holiday since agricultural work was scarce in winter. They walked around asking for ‘donations’ from better-off neighbors — someone like the village Squire. Farmworkers would shout “Penny for the plowboys!” while dragging a plow around. In attempts to disguise themselves, workers blackened their faces with soot. Villagers unwilling to donate faced the possibility of having their gardens plowed.
Entire villages would join in the fun. The plowboys often came with a colorful entourage too. One of the most popular characters was The Fool – a person dressed like an animal carrying a pig’s bladder on the end of a stick. Sometimes, Molly dancers would also accompany the workers to entertain for money. All the dancers blackened their faces with soot — preventing future employers from recognizing them. In the past, communities performed a series of plays on Plough Monday — similar to Christmas Mummers Plays. The performances were popular in the East Midlands, Lincolnshire, and Nottinghamshire. Story elements usually depicted the death and resurrection of the primary characters.
Plow Day takes place on the first Monday after Epiphany (January 6) or the Twelfth Night. Today, the observance is primarily associated with Molly dancing and plays. The best place to catch the festivities is at Maldon in Essex every year. Places like Exeter and Durham cathedrals also conduct a Blessing the Plough service on the Sunday before Plough Monday.
Plough Monday timeline
Farmers resume work on Plough Monday after the church blesses their plows.
Plough Monday customs decline in most U.K. towns.
Straw Bears or men dressed in layers of straw are popular fixtures at Plough Monday.
The town of Balsham revives Plough Monday as homage to its rural traditions.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Plough Monday
Local businesses, especially those in rural communities, can authentically celebrate Plough Monday by embracing its cultural significance. Pubs can host folk music nights, serve traditional seasonal dishes, or offer discounts to local farming communities. Craft shops might feature artisanal goods related to agriculture or British folklore. Even small retailers can create window displays that reflect the themes of the day, perhaps showcasing local produce or historical farming tools, fostering a sense of community and heritage.
Plough Monday FAQs
When is Plough Monday?
In 2027, Plough Monday will be observed on Monday, January 11, continuing the ancient British tradition. This date signals the return to work for farm laborers after the Christmas break.
What are the origins of Plough Monday?
The tradition of Plough Monday emerged as a way for agricultural laborers to solicit money from landowners and villagers before resuming work. The custom involved parading a plow through villages, often accompanied by music and dancing, with revelers sometimes blackening their faces.
How widely is Plough Monday celebrated today?
Though not a national observance, the spirit of Plough Monday is kept alive through dedicated folk groups and local heritage societies. These groups ensure the unique customs, music, and dances associated with the day continue to be passed down through generations.
Is Plough Monday a public holiday?
Despite its historical significance in agricultural communities, Plough Monday remains a working day for most people in the UK. Its celebration is driven by cultural enthusiasts and local groups dedicated to preserving heritage.
Plough Monday Activities
Attend Plough Monday festivities
Visit smaller towns like Maldon, Durham, and Exeter for glimpses of traditional celebrations. It’s a great chance to visit some of the more offbeat places in Britain.
Make a farmer happy
Drop by a farmers’ market and shop for some fresh produce. While you’re there, maybe buy your local farmers some coffee and muffins too.
Visit a farm
Take the family for a fun day or weekend trip to a farm. You’ll come back with a renewed appreciation for food, how it’s grown, and the people who grow them.
5 Intriguing Facts About Plough Monday
It had a Christian origin
Plows would be blessed and candles lit in churches as an invocation of blessings for farmers.
The farm workers wore disguises
Not only did they apply soot on their faces, but the younger ones would also put on women’s clothing and stuff themselves with straws in order to look like women.
Dancing was part of the festivities
The plow workers would engage in Molly dancing — which is a form of English folk dance — while wearing outlandish costumes.
It was disapproved
In the 19th Century, Plough Monday was looked upon as a ‘degrading custom’ that was promoting “criminal activity.”
It had two key caricatures
There was the ‘Bessy’ who was a man dressed to look ridiculous in women’s clothing and the ‘fool’ who wore animal skins; their task was to solicit money.
Why We Love Plough Monday
Keeping tradition alive
We love seeing old traditions survive. Too many have died out, and it feels like we’re losing parts of ourselves with them.
Gratitude for farmworkers
Fun antics aside, Plough Monday is a reminder to appreciate people who toil with the soil. Theirs is a difficult job — possibly one of the toughest there is.
It brings people together
Plough Monday involves everyone — no matter your background. We love quirky festivals that bring communities together.
Plough Monday dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | January 13 | Monday |
| 2026 | January 12 | Monday |
| 2027 | January 11 | Monday |
| 2028 | January 10 | Monday |
| 2029 | January 8 | Monday |
Social Media Tips for Plough Monday
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