Golowan is the Cornish-language word for Midsummer celebrations in Cornwall.
The tradition is especially associated with west Cornwall and Penzance, where historical festivities began around St John’s Eve on 23 June. Celebrations traditionally included bonfires, fireworks, dancing, music and a fair held around Midsummer Day, the feast of Saint John the Baptist, on 24 June.
Golowan was widespread before the late 19th century, particularly in the Penwith area. Some related Cornish bonfire customs were revived during the 20th century, including ceremonies at St Ives in 1929. In Penzance, the modern Golowan Festival was revived in 1991 as an arts and culture event, with Mazey Day becoming its best-known centerpiece.
The answer is Cornwall, not neighboring Devon or Dorset. Cumbria is also in England but lies much farther north and has its own regional traditions. Golowan belongs to Cornwall’s distinct Celtic cultural and linguistic heritage, even though its midsummer fires resemble celebrations found across Europe.