Ely Eel Day

Ely Eel Day is an annual celebration observed by people from Ely, Cambridgeshire to celebrate the city's namesake — the eel. The celebrations start with a parade which begins from Cross Green outside Ely Cathedral and proceeds through the city to the Jubilee Gardens, passing by the Market Square and along the River Great Ouse at Ely's Waterside.[1]

The celebrations following the parade include an eel throwing competition. The competition does not use real eels. Originally competitors were given socks rolled into some tights with rice in the end to weight it down[2] but now the competition uses specially made toy eels. Other events on Eel Day include an annual competition for Town Criers.[3]

It is traditional for any couples marrying that weekend to be named 'the King of Eels' and 'the Queen of Eels'. Legend goes that eels bring good luck for married life. Accordingly, the City of Ely will send couples married that weekend a hamper of eels each year on their anniversary. As part of the Eel Parade, the Queen of Eels must march ahead of the various floats and processions on a carriage, wearing a crown of (live) eels.

Eel Day is traditionally held on the Saturday, of the May Bank Holiday weekend.[4]