Welcome to St Paul's Churchyard in Covent Garden, London. The diarist Samuel Pepys noted seeing "Mr Punch" near here in May 1662: a plaque has been put up at the front of the church to commemorate this. Since 1976 this has become the location of an annual May Fayre and Puppet Festival. Come and enjoy the performance ...

STREET PROCESSION

Traditionally this event starts with a colourful procession, led by a brass band, which starts and ends in the churchyard

One of the organisers ... a ventriloquist?

The band gets into full swing ...

... followed by Punch and friends

Marching through Covent Garden's streets

The band's as quiet as a whistle (maybe) ...

... and is modest about its ability!

Give the performers a hand!

Is he Punch drunk?

Mind your fingers!

CHURCH SERVICE

In most years there is a special church service which involves the Punch and Judy puppeteers.
Note that there is no puppet service in 2008 because this event coincides with the Christian festival of Pentecost.

Oye! Oye! Oye! Come into church ...

... where Rev Mark Oakley leads the service

Punch joins the congregation - repenting for his sins?

This double act gives an unsual lesson

Hats off to the Superior Band

Today the church attendance has doubled!

The choir leaves at the end of the service

MUSIC & DANCE

Traditional entertainment at this event often includes Morris dancing and folk music

Maypole dancing is sometimes performed in front of the church

Puppet performances take part in the garden throughout the afternoon.
The space nearest to the front is reserved for children, but adults can enjoy the shows as well.