Looking to discover the very best of what’s on in Cornwall? Look no further than our ultimate guide!
Whether it’s dancing the night away in the dunes, sipping a cold beer as a band plays your favourite song, or trying new dishes at a food festival. Cornwall has it all!
Continue reading to discover what’s on in Cornwall 2026…
Jump to your chosen month with our quick links:
January
Time by Luxmuralis | 12th January 2026 – 17th January 2026
Step into “Time,” an extraordinary immersive experience held at Truro Cathedral that redefines how we see our place in the universe. This breathtaking event takes you on a journey through history, science, and imagination—exploring humanity’s evolving relationship with time itself.
From the theories of relativity to H.G. Wells’ The Time Machine, every moment invites wonder and discovery.
Prepare to be transported through stunning light and sound installations by Luxmuralis, the acclaimed artistic duo behind this visionary project. Traverse wormholes, wander inside the intricate workings of clocks, and travel back to the dawn of creation in a dramatic narrative that spans several eras.
February
What better way to feel at home in Cornwall than with a traditional Cornish pasty? You’ll find a variety of flavours throughout the annual Cornish Pasty Week, raising funds for food poverty.
If you’ve never had a Cornish pasty, you can tell a ‘proper Cornish pasty’ by its crimped edges. You can expect a flavourful combination of minced beef, veg and seasoning. It is estimated that a minimum of 120 million pasties are produced each year!
Join the celebrations and kick it all off with a day at the Lost Gardens of Heligan for the Global Pasty Championships on Saturday, 28th February 2026. Whether you’re making your own or buying one from your local bakery. You won’t be disappointed!
March
U Studio Festival | 7th March 2026
Immerse yourself in Cornwall’s rich art scene at the annual U Studio Festival. The festival sees a variety of artists take over the renowned Tate in St Ives, with vibrant exhibits filled with contemporary art.
A must-visit for any art enthusiasts looking for a festival in Cornwall.
There’s an in-house DJ providing the perfect soundtrack, as you get involved with workshops where you can create your own art and listen to talks. Or enjoy performances with a glass of wine in hand.
Taking place in the heart of the small town of Lostwithiel is the much-loved Lostwithiel Beer Festival.
Look forward to an afternoon sipping a cold pint as you watch the rugby, with a wide selection of beers to choose from. In the evenings, there will be live music so you can dance until the early hours!
The festival is organised by The Rotary Club, with all proceeds going towards the club’s charities.
Next up on our guide to Cornwall events in 2026 is the popular Falmouth Spring Flower Show.
Taking place in the Princess Pavilion, traders flock to display beautiful floral arrangements and home-grown flowers. You can also look forward to seeing rare plants and asking any questions to the on-hand experts.
The festival dates back approximately 110 years and signifies the arrival of spring in the town. There’s plenty to get involved with, from classes and photography to children’s activities, which have previously involved creating a bug hotel from recycled materials.
As if all that wasn’t enough, the event is free to attend and take part in!
April
Foodies assemble! For the annual Bude Food Festival, held in the picturesque grounds of the castle.
Be sure to come hungry, as there will be a wide range of stalls, from artisan farmers to street food. You can buy fresh and local produce, sweet treats, cheeses, and homemade jams and chutneys.
There is also a fantastic choice of drinks on offer, including beer, cider, and gin, perfect for washing down your meal with.
There is so much to see and do at this wonderful festival, from chef demonstrations, live comedy, music, and children’s entertainment. Bude Festival is a treat for all!
Rattler Fest | 24th April – 25th April 2026
Get on your dancing shoes for this year’s Rattlerfest at Healeys Cyder Farm!
This adult-only festival provides two days of fun-filled activities and escapism from everyday life. Dance with a cold pint as your favourite bands take to the stage, or make a splash at the Spring Break Pool Party.
You can also jam out at an Après Ski Lodge Session, compete in the renowned Rattler Olympics, or enjoy the delights of traditional fairground rides and the Silent Disco.
This year’s line-up looks like it’s already one to remember and includes Chesney Hawkes, Foo Fighters SW and Kernoasis.
Next is the annual Trevithick Day, which celebrates Camborne’s rich industrial heritage. The festival has been a staple part of the town’s calendar since 1984, and attracts thousands of visitors each year.
The festival takes its name from the famous inventor and engineer Richard Trevithick. It is thanks to him that we have steam locomotives and trains.
Look forward to watching a vibrant parade take over the streets, complete with dancers, street performers, and steam engines!
Prepare your taste buds for the award-winning Porthleven Food Festival. Held over three days, this popular festival celebrates the very best of food and music.
Taking place around the beautiful Porthleven Harbour, you can stock up on fresh produce, sample your favourite tipple, or indulge in street food.
Be sure to check out the Chef’s Theatre, where you can watch live demonstrations from an impressive line-up of chefs.
There is also the Makers Fair, where you can find out more about the pieces you are purchasing. As well as fairground rides, a variety of live music, and Ann’s Family Field, where you’ll find workshops and Cornish pasties aplenty!
May
Budding artists and bookworms will not want to miss out on Fowey’s Festival of Art and Literature.
The festival takes place across various venues in Fowey, playing host to a variety of authors, musicians, and artists.
The inspiration behind the festival comes from the renowned author Daphne du Maurier, who spent much of her life in Fowey. A great deal of her work was written in Cornwall, and as such, it was the setting for many of her stories.
Another must-see event in Cornwall is Helston Flora Day, a vibrant centuries‑old Cornish festival celebrating the arrival of spring and the end of winter. The highlight is the “Furry Dance,” a series of colourful processions led by Helston Town Band, with dancers adorned in lily of the valley and period dress.
A day filled with community spirit and storytelling, it can only be Callington MayFest.
This all day street festival offers something for everyone, so grab a pint of MayFest brew and get involved. After the procession, enjoy the artisan craft market, watch live performances across three stages, and join a workshop where you can learn how to sing or play an instrument.
Another key event in any foodies calendar is the St Ives Food & Drink Festival!
Get ready for a day jam-packed with artisan food and drinks, live music, entertainment, and food demonstrations. As if that wasn’t enough, this beloved festival takes place on the stunning Porthminster Beach!
If you want to soak up all the festival has to offer, make sure you stay for the Evening Music Sessions. Taking place at The Lighthouse Stage, artists perform with a backdrop of exceptional views across the bay.
It is not to be missed when looking for a Festival in Cornwall!
June
If you’re searching for what’s on in Cornwall, then the Royal Cornwall Show is a must for your itinerary. This annual agricultural show has been part of the Cornwall event calendar for over 200 years. It has even had a few famous attendees over the years, including the Queen!
You will see a variety of livestock entering competitions at the event, including sheep, pigs, and ponies. The Cornwall Cider Championships also take place during the event, inviting locals and visitors to enter their best brews.
Other areas of the event we recommend visiting are the Royal Cornwall Food & Farming Pavilion and the traditional steam fair.
For the adrenaline junkies, there is the Bolddog FMX team, where you can watch riders and their motorbikes take on tricks 35 feet in the air!
The next addition to our festivals in Cornwall 2026 guide also takes place on the beach, the unrivalled Tunes in the Dunes Festival!
Get ready for a weekend of fun on Perranporth Beach as you watch your favourite artists take to the stage. As well as a killer line-up, you can enjoy the festival staple of a silent disco, a range of food and drink, and activities for the little ones.
Bust out some moves at the Estrella Bar, which plays host to famous DJs, or keep the party going at an afterparty at The Watering Hole.
Get ready for this year’s line-up, which includes Basement Jaxx, Scouting for Girls, and The Wombats!
Ahoy mateys! If you’re looking for what’s on in Cornwall in June, you will not want to miss Europe’s largest nautical music and song festival in Falmouth!
Celebrating the town’s rich maritime heritage, where sailors would gather in alehouses to tell stories and sing songs. Expect pop-up bars and a variety of performances speckled throughout the town, where groups will gather to sing the songs of sailors passed by.
July
Celebrate all things book-related at the annual Penzance Literary Festival. The four-day event offers attendees the chance to listen to talks from their favourite writers and authors, as well as watch performances.
If you’re hungry for more, there are several author-based workshops on offer, where you can learn more about your favourite genres.
A highlight of the event is the popular LitFest quiz, which will really get your brain working!
Get ready for a long weekend filled with sea views and good vibes at Tropical Pressure.
Ideally located at Mount Pleasant Eco Park in Porthtowan, Tropical Pressure will take you on a journey around the world. Celebrating the diverse cultures of Latin America, the Caribbean and Africa through live music, dance, and delicious food.
The festival welcomes all, with a Kids Creative Zone, activities, free workshops, and storytelling.
Tropical Pressure prides itself on being a highly sustainable and more intimate festival for everyone to enjoy.
Looking for a festival with top chefs and an all-star lineup? Look no further than Rock Oyster Festival. The event enjoys a fantastic location set within 40 acres along the banks of the River Camel.
During the festival, you can get involved in well-being events like sound baths, yoga, and meditation. Or perhaps you’d prefer to unwind with a massage?
There’s plenty for families too, whether the kids want to get involved with yoga, dance or singing in the Jellyfish Tent. Or learn to survive in the wild with den building and combat classes.
Those seeking a slice of foodie heaven can enjoy tasting dishes at the Chef Tipis, dine alfresco with a barbecue, or watch cooking demonstrations from Michelin Star chefs.
You’re sure to have an unforgettable time with this year’s lineup, which includes Freya Ridings, Sam Ryder, and The Scissor Sisters.
August
Get ready to experience Cornwall like never before at the famous Boardmasters Festival. Held in Newquay, Boardmasters is Cornwall’s surf and music festival, which attracts thousands every year!
Bring your board to take part in the renowned surfing competitions which take place on Fistral Beach, which made it onto our best beaches in the South West list! Or if you came for the music, head down to Watergate Bay to enjoy your favourite tunes with a view!
Joining you at Boardmasters in 2026 are Fat Boy Slim, Kasabian and many more!
Transforming the town of Fowey for one week in August is the Fowey Regatta. A key event in any sailor’s calendar.
At this popular event, you can expect live music, boat races, children’s entertainment, competitions, and the Giant Pasty Ceremony. As well as a traditional carnival procession, followed by an evening of awe-inspiring fireworks.
A week of fun for all the family awaits you at the Fowey Regatta!
Get ready to celebrate all things folk at Cornwall’s Folk Festival in Wadebridge. Watch the town come alive with music as your favourite folk acts take to the stage across various venues.
There are also instrument workshops, street performers, and entertainment for the children to enjoy!
Secure your tickets to this year’s event via the Cornwall Folk Festival website.
September
Head down to Healey’s Cider Farm and grab a glass or two, and get ready to celebrate the Little Orchard Cider & Music Festival.
Look forward to three days of live music, activities including hoe downs, and the battle of the sea shanties. Along with delicious food and bubbling hot tubs to sink into after a day of dancing.
The line-up for this year’s event won’t disappoint. Keep an eye on their website for the acts to be announced.
The longest addition to our What’s on in Cornwall 2026 guide is the much-anticipated St Ives September Festival.
Since 1978, the St Ives September Festival has been celebrating the best of art and music.
Held across various venues throughout the town, you can expect a feast of live music, exhibitions, poetry and art. As well as demonstrations and immersive workshops where you can unleash your inner artist!
October
See in the oyster-dredging season at the renowned Falmouth Oyster Festival. Taking place along Falmouth’s beautiful harbour.
Join thousands of visitors for the four-day event, which highlights the delicacy of oysters in Cornwall and the methods of how they have been harvested throughout time.
Watch cookery demonstrations to get some inspiration, or enjoy the views with a glass of champagne and a plate of oysters. You can also enjoy the delights of the Grand Oyster Parade, get involved in the shucking competition, or watch the working boat race.
Don’t forget to take some food and drink home with you!
November
Embark on a run at your own pace along the famous Camel Trail at the annual Lobster Lollop.
This event raises money for Padstow’s beloved National Lobster Hatchery, which you can visit and even adopt your own hatchling!
The event prides itself on being a family event with something for everyone. The run itself is no pressure, with runners being able to choose their distance from 2.5km to 10km or even, 10-miles.
Every participant will receive a medal, which provides free entry into the National Lobster Hatchery!
December
Got the blues? The rhythm and blues, that is, along with a dash of rock, at Looe Blues Rhythm and Rock Festival.
This much-loved festival takes place at Tencreek Holiday Park and sees many gather together for an event like no other.
Grab a drink, sit back and relax and lose yourself in your much-loved genre.
Whilst this year’s line-up is yet to be announced, acts such as Jimmy Regal and the Royals, Mississippi Macdonald, and Laurence Jones have graced previous events.
Nothing quite gets you in the festive spirit like a Christmas market, and Truro’s is no exception when you’re looking for Cornwall events in December!
Treat yourself to a glass of mulled wine or a festive bite as you wander around the market. If you need to do any Christmas shopping, you will find stalls selling crafts, artisan tipples, plants, trinkets, children’s toys, and candles.
Experience the beauty of Truro in the run-up to Christmas at this magical event!
Finally, on our What’s on in Cornwall 2026 guide, is the awe-inspiring Truro City of Lights. Many line the streets of this historic city each year to watch as the lantern procession makes its way through the city.
The lanterns are closely followed by street performers, including drummers, dancers, and musicians. Each year has a surprise in store for spectators with a new theme.
Enjoy a hot chocolate and see in the Christmas season in style at this enchanting event.
If our guide has inspired you to check out what’s on in Cornwall, we have an excellent range of cottages in Cornwall which would make the perfect base during your stay!
For further things to do during your time in the South West, why not check out our guide to secret beaches in Cornwall, or if you’re feeling spooky, our blog on the most haunted places in the South West!
Don’t miss out on making memories, secure your getaway to Cornwall with Helpful Holidays today!
Image Credit: Moogiewonderland – (CC-BY 4.0);
