A dragon is set to awaken Somerset’s imagination on a county-wide journey.
A seven-foot beast is at the heart of plans for Somerset Day 2026, designed to help celebrate the county’s identity, folklore, and creativity.
The Journey of the Somerset Dragon will see it tour towns and villages across Somerset from March to May 2026, gathering communities together in the lead-up to Somerset Day weekend on May 9 and May 10.
Nigel Muers-Raby, CEO of Passion for Somerset, said: "Somerset Day is about belonging, pride and shared identity.
"The Journey of the Somerset Dragon is a powerful way to bring communities together, spark imagination and celebrate everything that makes Somerset special – from our folklore and landscapes to our people and creativity."
The dragon has been designed, created and constructed by students at Taunton College, as part of a major collaboration between University Centre Somerset College Group and Passion for Somerset CIC in partnership with Eurilait Ltd, the Journey of the Dragon’s principal partner.
Ed Leahy, managing director of Eurilait, said: "As a Somerset‑based company, we are extremely proud to sponsor the Journey of the Somerset Dragon, a celebration that brings our community together and truly makes Somerset shine.
"The spirit behind this journey reflects our own corporate values.
"Among our five core behaviours, we encourage every colleague to be collaborative, brave, and passionate, to challenge themselves and each other, and to continuously develop and thrive.
"Supporting initiatives like this reinforces our commitment to building a confident, empowered team that drives our success together, while proudly celebrating our Somerset roots."
Each stop along the dragon's route will feature a free public event with performances and creative activities that bring communities together.
The project also includes a county-wide dragon naming campaign, hosted by BBC Radio Somerset.
People will be invited to suggest a name and explain why it should be chosen, with the chosen name being revealed on Somerset Day, set for Monday, May 11, at a special event hosted by BBC Radio Somerset.
Running alongside the dragon’s journey is an educational project for primary schools called The Tail of the Dragon.
Schools will receive a free illustrated storybook and classroom resources exploring Somerset’s heritage and encouraging creativity and storytelling.
Jen Mellows, principal of Taunton College, said: "This collaboration gives our students a unique opportunity to work on a major cultural project with real impact.
"Designing and building the Somerset dragon allows them to showcase their creativity and skills while contributing to a lasting symbol of Somerset pride."
Serin Brown added: "By reaching every primary school in Somerset, The Tail of the Dragon ensures that children across the county can be part of Somerset Day.
"The storybook and education pack are designed to inspire curiosity, creativity and a sense of place, helping young people connect with their local heritage in a meaningful way."
