Clowns in Church
On the first Sunday in February there is a church service held every year at a Holy Trinity Church in Dalston, East London, where the congregation is comprised almost completely of CLOWNS.Clowns appear in full motley and slap for the Grimaldi Memorial Service, to which the public are warmly invited.The Clowns transferred to Holy Trinity in 1959. It is here that the occasion has grown to its present proportions; the Church packed to bursting point and the proceedings covered by all the media. The event really came into its own when in February 1967 Clown Smokey succeeded in gaining permission for Clowns to attend in full motley. Clowns from all over the World, irrespective of religious convictions, attended in full "slap" (make-up and costume). They give thanks for the gift of laughter and honour the "father" of present day Clowns, Joseph Grimaldi. After the Service it is traditional for the Clowns to entertain the public in the adjacent school.
A summer celebration was also inaugurated by the residents of Islington. This occurs during the children's half term (either the last week of May or the first week of June). The date also coincides with Joey's death and burial, but is far from a gloomy affair; the sun usually shines on a festive outdoor occasion, full of fun and laughter.
http://woodlands-junior.kent.sch.uk/customs/curious/index.htm#strawbear