Exeter Morris 75th Anniversary Day of Dance

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Celebrating 75 Years of Exeter Morris

Exeter Morris, the oldest established Morris dancing side in Devon, will mark the 75th anniversary of its formation with a vibrant Day of Dance in Exeter on Saturday 30 May 2026, with Exeter Cathedral Green as the main hub for performances throughout the day.

The celebration will bring together 16 Morris sides from the Southwest, showcasing an array of traditional dance styles, featuring Appalachian Clog, Border, Cotswold, North West Clog and Rapper, at locations throughout the city centre. The event promises a colourful, energetic spectacle for residents and visitors alike as Exeter Morris celebrates three quarters of a century of dance, music and community.

A Full Day of Music, Movement and Colour

Across several central Exeter locations, audiences will be treated to a rolling programme of performances from morning through late afternoon. Each Morris side will bring its own distinctive tradition and style, offering spectators an unusually rich opportunity to experience the full breadth of Morris and related traditional dance.

Celebrating 75 Years of Exeter Morris

Formed in 1951, Exeter Morris has been a familiar and much loved presence at local events, festivals and celebrations for generations. The 75th anniversary offers a chance both to honour the side's history and to share the joy of Morris dancing with a wider audience.

Simon Read, the Squire of Exeter Morris, said:
"What a way to celebrate 75 years of dancing. Exeter Morris have 15 sides, over 200 dancers and musicians, coming to our anniversary day of dance. It promises to be a spectacle of colour and sound."

Bringing Traditional Dance into the Heart of Exeter

With bright costumes, live music, and the lively rhythm of bells, sticks and swords, the Day of Dance is expected to draw visitors into the city centre and contribute to a festive atmosphere that showcases Exeter's cultural vibrancy.