Calendar of unusual Customs and Traditions in England, Scotland and Wales JULY

July A long time ago the year was marked out with special days which marked the passing year. These were days of celebrations where people would do things, eat things or make things which they would not normally do. See also folk, facts and sayings about July Whitstable Oyster Festival and Blessing of the Waters Whitstable, Kent. Held over the period which includes St James Day (25th July) - St James being the Patron Saint of Oysters and Oyster Fisheries. More information Swan Upping (last Monday) River Thames The Dyers and Vintner's Companies have the right, established in medieval times, to keep swans on the Thames River. Every year the Queen's Swan Keeper and Swan Markers from the two livery companies row in skiffs along the river to mark the cygnets (baby swans). Find out more about Swan Upping World Toe-Wrestling Championships Held at the Bentley Bridge Inn in Derbyshire every July Well-Dressing Derbyshire May - September Well dressing is one of Derbyshire's and the Peak District's best known, most popular and colourful customs. It dates back hundreds of years, and though there have been religious associations, the true origins remain unknown. Click here to find out more