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From family festivals to sporting events, here are some upcoming events in Devon to enjoy during your next staycation.

What could be better than enjoying live music in Devon and letting your hair down with a cold beverage in hand?

Make the most of your South West holiday by experiencing one of these Devon festivals or events during your stay. Festivals in the South West seem to be a way of life for the locals!

Read on to discover some of the most anticipated events happening in Devon throughout the year…


Use our quick links to jump to a different month of the year:


March

Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival – Spring Weekend

Dates: 1st – 2nd March 2024

Info: One for literary enthusiasts’ calendars. Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival’s Spring Weekend will host talks from Marcus du Sautoy, Sir Robert Niblett and Clive Myrie, to name a few.

Catch these inspiring talks, attend readings and conversations and even live music. There will be a Waterstones pop-up bookshop and book signings too.

Where: Multiple venues across Budleigh Salterton.

Accommodation: These Exmouth Cottages are all perfectly located to attend the Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival.

Daffodil Day at Hartland Abbey

Dates: 10th March 2024

Info: What better way to welcome Spring than with a day at Hartland Abbey?

The annual event allows visitors to explore the home’s large collection of daffodils, many of which were planted 150 years ago! And this year is extra special – it’s Mothering Sunday!

There are a variety of trails to follow, whether you fancy a stroll through the woodlands, Walled Gardens, or down to the beach. There is even a wooden summerhouse with a log fire, perfect for chillier days!

After exploring, grab a bite to eat at the Old Kitchen Tea Rooms, where you can enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of homemade cake.

Where: Hartland Abbey, Hartland, Bideford

Accommodation: Book a stay at one of these holiday cottages in Hartland and enjoy a Mother’s Day in Devon.


May

Toby’s Garden Festival

Dates: 3rd – 4th May 2024

Info: A lifelong gardener and host of a weekly gardening show on BBC Radio Devon, Toby Buckland is the founder of this lovely Devon festival.

The event takes place over two days at the historic and imposing manor house, Powderham Castle, located just a few miles from Dawlish and Exmouth.

The festival plays host to expert gardening talks in the castle’s historic Dining Room, as well as a Country Gardener Talks Tent.

Attend practical workshops, browse the array of nurseries exhibiting here as well as arts and crafts stalls.

Where: Powderham Castle, near Dawlish, EX6 8JQ

Accommodation: Find Dawlish holiday cottages in and around Dawlish.

 

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The Brixham Pirate Festival

Dates: 4th – 6th May 2024

Info: Ever fancied dressing up as a pirate for the day? Well, then this is the right festival in Devon for you! The Brixham Pirate Festival is exactly what you expect it to be.

Watch re-enactments with swords and guns of battling pirate ships, and even step aboard a real pirate ship! The Atyla is the only wooden ship of its kind that uses traditional sailing techniques with some engine assistance.

Where: Brixham, South Devon, TQ5 8DY

Accommodation: Find your ideal Brixham holiday cottage in and around Brixham.

A man in pirate fancy dress at Brixham Pirate Festival.

Devon County Show

Dates: 16th – 18th May 2024

Info: Devon’s largest agricultural show, the Devon County Show is a great 3-day outdoor event.

Exceptional livestock, stunning horses, and canine superstars will be in attendance. As well as entertainment in all kinds of forms throughout the day.

There’s a huge Food and Drink Pavilion and top chef Michael Caines will be cooking up a storm in the cooking demo.

Where: Westpoint, Exeter

Accommodation: Explore these cottages in Topsham for a home away from home whilst attending the Devon County Show.

 

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Dart Music Festival

Dates: 17th – 19th May 2024

Info: Celebrating its 27th anniversary, the Dart Music Festival continues to be one of Devon’s most popular events. With over 100 acts across 15 venues, their ethos is ‘Music for All’.

Enjoy live music in Devon in amazing venues like an ancient fort, ramparts of old castle walls, fisherman’s church, Victorian Bandstand and even open-air street performances.

Where: Dartmouth

Accommodation: Book one of these Dartmouth cottages in and around Dartmouth.

 

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Kingsbridge Food & Music Festival

Dates: 31st May – 2nd June 2024

Info: Arranged by local businesses and run by volunteers, this Devon festival is all about throwing a big party for the people and visitors of Kingsbridge.

The festival is free and offers live music, entertainment, activity groups, craft sessions and lots of fun things for kids too.

Children can head to the Kids Zone and have fun with face painting, bouncy castle, and free workshops.

Where: Town Square in Kingsbridge, TQ7 1PG.

Accommodation: Discover these cottages in Kingsbridge and the surrounding area.

Sidmouth International Jazz & Blues Festival

Dates: 23rd – 27th May 2024

Info: The Sidmouth International Jazz & Blues Festival returns after a successful first event last year. This Devon festival hosts a range of musical genres, including jazz, blues, roots, soul, Latin, funk and much more.

What better way to enjoy concerts, musical workshops and masterclasses from the experts?

Where: Sidmouth Parish Church, Blackmore Gardens.

Accommodation: Find cottages in Sidmouth and the nearby area.


June

Craft Festival

Dates: 7th – 9th June 2024

Info: This celebration of all things crafting is a real creative treat. Bovey Tracey’s Craft Festival entails workshops, demonstrations, and lots of family-friendly activities.

Meet the makers of unique and bespoke crafts and artwork, and enjoy the live music and food stalls too.

Where: Mill Marsh Park, Bovey Tracey

Accommodation: Find cottages near Bovey Castle and enjoy the Bovey Tracey Craft Festival.

 

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Exeter Food and Drink Festival

Dates: 7th – 9th June 2024

Info: Calling all foodies! Indulge your taste buds at the Exeter Food and Drink Festival, where local producers showcase their finest culinary creations. From artisan cheeses to craft beers, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

Where: Exeter Castle, Exeter, Devon, EX4 3PU

Accommodation: Explore accommodation options in Exeter for a delightful gastronomic getaway.

Teignmouth Folk Festival

Dates: 21st – 23rd June 2024

Info: Teignmouth will once again play host to a wonderful array of free entertainment across several venues. Attend concerts, workshops, dance acts and even ‘meet and greets’ with some of the artists.

There will also be traditional Morris displays throughout the town. A perfect addition to enjoying an authentic Devon festival experience.

Where: Teignmouth United Reform Church, Dawlish Street, Teignmouth

Accommodation: Find cottages in Teignmouth and nearby.

 

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Shaldon Festival

Dates: 16th – 22nd June 2024

Info: The Shaldon Festival is all about providing local people and visitors with access to world-class and professionally performed classical and contemporary music, at affordable prices. What’s not to like?

This small coastal village lies not far from Teignmouth. Here you can expect Montenegrin Guitar Duo, Trio Bohém, and Chineke! Wind Quintet, who have been announced for this years event.

Where: St Peter’s Church, Bridge Road, Shaldon, TQ14 0BD

Accommodation: Find cottages near Shaldon.

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Plymouth Armed Forces Day

Dates: 29th June 2024

Info: This brilliant weekend event in Devon offers a myriad of charities the chance to showcase the amazing work they have done throughout the year. It’s also a way to celebrate the veterans and those currently in the Armed Forces.

Catch the awesome parades, live music and host of activities taking place throughout the weekend, as well as a free evening concert.

Where: Plymouth Hoe, Plymouth

Accommodation: Find cottages near Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo, not far from Plymouth.

Red Arrows flying across a blue sky.


July

Clovelly Maritime Festival

Dates: 21st July 2024

Info: Next up on our What’s on in Devon guide is the Maritime Festival in Clovelly. Promising a fun-filled day and raising money for an amazing cause, supporting 1.5 million crewmen and women.

This event is perfect for families, as there is a wealth of entertainment and activities for the little ones to enjoy.

Watch or get involved in the exciting Clovelly Cup Yacht rally, which sees a variety of yachts set off to race across the bay.

What’s more, there’s maritime-themed fancy dress, street entertainment from Marvellous Eventures, and some yummy food stalls too.

Where: Clovelly

Accommodation: Find cottages in Clovelly and the surrounding area.

 

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Tunes on the Sands

Dates: 12th – 13th July 2024

Info: Festivals in Devon don’t get more picturesque than this one! Hosted on Blackpool Sands, a Blue Flag status beach one of the best beaches in the South West.

Lying just south of Dartmouth, Tunes on the Sands is a glorious weekend of live music, art installations and sun, sea and sand.

This year’s line-up includes Feeder and Razorlight, with many more acts to still be announced!

After an afternoon of dancing, look forward to sipping gins in Tarquin’s Gin Terrace and getting special treatment in the VIP area.

Where: Blackpool Sands, Devon

Accommodation: Book one of these holiday cottages in near Dartmouth for easy access to Tunes on the Sands.

Mid Devon Show

Dates: 27th July 2024

Info: The Mid Devon Show is a celebration of all things rural Mid Devon. It combines a fantastic mix of entertainment, food, music, horticulture and farming.

Enjoy celebrating the beloved region at this Devon event.

Where: Knightshayes Court, Tiverton

Accommodation: Find cottages in and around Tiverton.

Altitude Festival

Dates: TBC

Info: Altitude Festival plays host to an eclectic mix of DJs from across the UK. It strives to represent both emerging artists and well-established legends. All in a little field in Devon.

For those eager to enjoy as much of this Devon festival as possible, you can purchase a three-day ticket where you can attend Altitude Soundcheck too!

Where: Blackborough, Devon, EX15 2HJ

Accommodation: Find cottages in and around Cullompton.


August

Sidmouth Folk Festival

Dates: 2nd – 9th August 2024

Info: Join in the celebration of folk music, dance, and storytelling at the Sidmouth Folk Festival. With workshops, concerts, and lively street performances, this event offers a week of fun for the whole family.

Where: Various venues in Sidmouth, Devon

Accommodation: Find charming cottages in Sidmouth for a cozy retreat after a day of festivities.

North Devon Show

Dates: 7th August 2024

Info:  The North Devon Agricultural Society, a registered charity, run this special one-day event in Devon.

It’s a celebration of all things rural and is held on a 50-acre site at Umberleigh Barton Farm.

Catch live music, watch animal shows and browse the many amazing small business stalls.

Where: Umberleigh, North Devon

Accommodation: Find cottages in nearby Bideford and the surrounding area.

 

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Honiton Show

Dates: 1st August 2024

Info: Held in the East Devon countryside, the Honiton Show has grown over the last 131 years to become one of the largest one-day agricultural shows in the country!

Each year the show hosts hundreds of trade stalls, animal events and competitions and is a celebration of rural Devon life in general.

Where: Honiton

Accommodation: Find cottages in Honiton and the surrounding area.

Okehampton Show

Dates: 8th August 2024

Info: Taking place northern edge of Dartmoor National Park, this traditional agricultural show offers plenty to entertain.

Watch a wide range of prize-winning animals, browse the hundreds of vendors and stalls, and tuck into delicious local food and drink.

There’s even children’s entertainment too!

Where: Stoney Park Showground, Okehampton, Dartmoor

Accommodation: Find cottages in Okehampton and the nearby area.

 

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West Country Music Festival

Dates: 10th August 2024

Info: This one-day festival in Devon is dedicated to country music. It is hosted in the beautiful Muddifords Court Estate grounds in Cullompton.

This years line-up of country artists including The Wandering Hearts, Bob Fitzgerald Band, Concrete Prairie, and Rosso.

Where: Muddifords Court Estate, Cullompton

Accommodation: Find cottages in and around Cullompton.

Chagford Show

Dates: 15th August 2024

Info: Another great event in Devon to enjoy in the heart of Dartmoor!

Chagford Show will see you watching or taking part in numerous competitions, browsing an amazing selection of stalls, and enjoying a fun-filled day out.

Where: Chagford Showground, Chagford, Dartmoor

Accommodation: Find cottages in Chagford and the nearby area.

 

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Beautiful Days

Dates: 16th – 18th August 2024

Info: This family music festival in Devon has several stages, a seated theatre tent and art installations.

There’s a children’s area so your little ones will have lots to enjoy too, whilst the adults can grab a real ale from the bar.

Where: Escot Park, Devon

Accommodation: Find cottages in and around Honiton nearby.

Gone Wild Festival

Dates: 22nd – 25th August 2024

Info: If Bear Grylls did festivals…wait, this is a Bear Grylls festival! Nature Valley have partnered up with the famous survivalist and wild man Bear Grylls to bring you Gone Wild.

Gone Wild is described on its website as ‘the ultimate family festival’. You can expect to enjoy amazing activities like stand-up paddle boarding, climbing, archery, survival skills, and even nerf combat!

Confirmed for this year’s festival are Sam Ryder, The Feeling and Jake Shears.

Where: Powderham Castle, Devon

Accommodation: Find cottages in Exmouth and nearby.


September

International Agatha Christie Festival

Dates: 7th – 15th September 2024

Info: This celebration of the best-selling novelist of all time takes place in her birthplace, Torquay.

The full programme with be announced in Spring, but the festival will include high profile speakers, performances of her plays and poetry, as well as literary activities.

The main venue is Torre Abbey, with other events at Torquay Museum, Greenway (Agatha Christie’s home in Kingswear overlooking the River Dart), the Palace Theatre, and the Luck Seven Club in Paignton.

Torquay is a fantastic location for a holiday to Devon. Take a look at our article on things to do in Torquay to get some holiday inspo!

Where: venues in Torquay and Paignton.

Accommodation: Find cottages in Torquay and the surrounding area.

Widecombe Fair

Dates: TBC

Info: Raising money for incredible causes and providing a great day out for all ages, what’s not to like?

Widecombe Fair hosts a dog show, several animal competitions, a hilarious novelty race, and a fantastic range of traders.

Where: Widecombe, Dartmoor

Accommodation: Find cottages in Widecombe in the Moor and nearby.

 

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Appledore Book Festival

Dates: 13 – 22nd September 2024

Info: More for the bookworms! Hosted in and around the gorgeous waterside town of Appledore in North Devon, this festival showcases some of the greatest names in literature, broadcasting and media.

Where: Venues around Appledore.

Accommodation: Find cottages in Appledore and the surrounding area.

Abbfest

Dates: 14th – 17th September 2024

Info: Abbfest is a food, beer and music festival, showcasing over 200 locally produced beers and ciders. It’s run completely by volunteers and the proceeds support a collection of local charities.

If you’re not a beer fiend, fear not! This Devon festival also caters to those who love pimms, wine and there’s a prosecco bar too.

Where: Isaac’s Field, TQ12 5TN

Accommodation: Find Newton Abbot cottages and nearby properties.

 

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October

Two Moors Festival

Dates: 3rd – 6th and 10th – 13th October 2024

Info: This classical music festival in Devon will see around 6,000 people attend an exciting range of events across Exmoor and Dartmoor.

Two Moors Festival aims to bring high-class, classical music to remarkable places.

Rural venues across Dartmoor and Exmoor will host recitals, concerts, operas, newly commissioned works, talks, exhibitions, school workshops and masterclasses.

Venues include village halls, churches, indoor markets, museums, auction rooms, and even Nissen huts!

Where: Dartmoor National Park & Exmoor National Park

Accommodation: Find Dartmoor holiday cottages and Exmoor holidays cottages.

 

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Powderham Castle Food Festival

Dates: 5th – 6th October 2024

Info: Savor the flavors of Devon at the Powderham Castle Food Festival. Sample gourmet treats, attend cooking demonstrations by top chefs, and explore the beautiful grounds of the historic Powderham Castle.

Where: Powderham Castle, Kenton, Exeter, Devon, EX6 8JQ

Accommodation: Look for accommodations near Exeter to enjoy easy access to the food festival.

Beer R&B Festival

Dates: 11th – 13th October 2024

Info: Watch the Jurassic Coast come alive with music from the R’n’B scene. The Beer R&B Festival features critically acclaimed and award-winning bands and musicians from across the UK Blues scene.

Three days of music along the Jurassic Coast, critically acclaimed award-winning bands and musicians, UK Blues and R’n’B scene.

Where: Beer, East Devon

Accommodation: Find Beer holiday cottages and nearby properties.

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November

Haldon Gold Cup

Dates: 8th November 2024

Info: Fancy a day at the races? Then look no further than the Haldon Gold Cup Day.

This annual event is the highlight of the season, attracting many to watch both horses and riders compete for the cup.

Off the track, you will find a variety of entertainment including, the Denman Room Bar, AP’s Bar, and The Martin Pipe Room. Along with the Iddesleigh Gallery Restaurant, and a variety of food vans serving a range of food and drinks.

Where: Exeter Racecourse

Accommodation: Find your base with our selection of Exeter holiday cottages.

 

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We’ll keep updating this list with all the latest dates and info so keep your eyes peeled for those events with dates TBC.

For more festival content, read our post on the most iconic festival of all; Glastonbury Festival! We talk you through the facts and figures of Somerset’s pride and joy.

Book with confidence with Helpful Holidays; call our experts on the phone or book online today!