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 play your favourite song, or trying new dishes at a food festival. Cornwall has it all!
Continue reading to discover what’s on in Cornwall 2023…
Jump to your chosen month with our quick links:
January
First up on our guide to what’s on in Cornwall is the enchanting Lost Suppers held at The Lost Gardens of Heligan Estate.
Look forward to enjoying seven courses of taste sensations in the Heligan Kitchen Conservatory. The menu showcases the very best of the estates homegrown produce and rare breed meats.
All dishes are completely ingredient led, with menus never published beforehand. Be greeted with a drink on arrival and prepare your tastebuds for an evening of culinary delights!
Be sure to visit the beautiful gardens beforehand, which span for 200 acres, they are straight out of a fairy-tale.
February
What better way to feel at home in Cornwall then 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, whether you’re making your own or buying one from your local bakery. You won’t be disappointed!
March
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 clubs’ charities.
U Studio Festival | 25th March
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 what’s on 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.
Next up on our guide to what’s on in Cornwall 2023 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 approx. 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 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 | 21st April – 22nd April
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 its already one to remember and includes Goldie Lookin Chain, The Hoosiers, Chris Stark, and Molly Hocking.
Prepare your tastebuds 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. Attending this year is Antony Worral Thompson, Charlotte Vincent, Jude Kereama, and many more!
There is also the Makers Fair where you can find out more about the pieces your 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!
Next is the annual Trevithick Day, which celebrates Camborne’s rich industrial heritage. The festival has been a staple part of the towns 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!
May
Budding artists and bookworms will not want to miss out on Fowey’s Festival of Art and Literature. Which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year!
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 of Daphne du Maurier, who spent much of her life in Fowey. A great deal of her work was written in Cornwall, and as such, was the setting for many of her stories.
Another key event in any foodies calendar, 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 what’s on in Cornwall!
The next addition to our What’s on in Cornwall 2023 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 DJ’s, or keep the party going at an afterparty at The Watering Hole.
Get ready for this year’s line-up which includes, Kaiser Chiefs, James Bay and the Vaccines!
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.
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 Wall of Death, where you can watch riders and their motorbikes take on the horizontal ride!
St Ives Pride | 10th June
Show your support, raise awareness, and celebrate love at St Ives Pride 2023! Get ready to wave your rainbow flag as you watch or participate in the colourful parade.
Get involved with the celebrations which include talks, live music, family-friendly entertainment, and food!
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 11th 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 a number of 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!
Set in the idyllic village of Lanivet, is the superb PandaFest. Inspired by the villages produce of bamboo, which is grown for the pandas at London Zoo, and celebrating the local heritage.
This is the festivals fifth year, and it promises to be one to remember! There’s a bar and a variety of food stalls where you can refuel throughout the event.
Whilst 2023’s line up is yet to be announced, previous artists include Toploader, The Velvet Hands, and Andy Quick.
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, 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.
Our what’s on in Cornwall 2023 guide sees the return of the multi-award winning, Leopallooza Festival.
This grass roots festival is an advocate for a greener future and was the first festival to ban single-use plastic drinking cups. It is known as the greatest and most sustainable house party in a field!
You can bring the whole family to enjoy a variety of entertainment, including magicians, crafts, fair rides and water slides. There are also family performances available in the day time, courtesy of Rogue Theatre.
There’s plenty to eat and do, with a variety of food stalls selling everything from hot waffles and doughnuts, to wood fired pizza and noodles.
Looking for a festival with top chefs and an all-star line up? 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 a relaxing soak in a hot tub or 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 trying 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 Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Groove Armada, and Nile Rodgers & Chic.
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 surf competitions which take place on Fistral Beach, which made 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 2023 are Florence + The Machine, Liam Gallagher, Example, and may 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 this, there is 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’s also instrument workshops, street performers, and entertainment for the children to enjoy!
Secure your tickets to this year’s event where you can see the Gigspanner Big Band, Teyr, and Sarah McQuaid, to name a few!
September
Head down to Healey’s Cider Farm and grab a glass ready to celebrate the 10th Little Orchard Cider & Music Festival.
Look forward to three days of live music, activities including hoe downs, and battle of the sea shanties. Along with delicious food and bubbling hot tubs to sink to after a day of dancing.
The line-up for this year’s event doesn’t disappoint, with Willie and The Bandits, Emerald, Tankus The Henge, and Ocean Colour Scene already announced!
The longest addition to our What’s on in Cornwall 2023 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 five-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 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!
Witches and wizards, grab your capes and wands for a Spooktacular Halloween Half Term at Paradise Park.
There’s no tricks just treats at this family-friendly event. Look forward to seeing the animals tuck in to their pumpkins, visit the Dinos After DARK, or complete the Halloween Pumpkin Trail.
You’re sure to have an absolute scream at this event in Cornwall!
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 and 5km, to 10km and 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 graced last year’s stage.
Truro Christmas Markets | TBC
Nothing quite gets you in the festive spirit like a Christmas market, and Truro’s is no exception when you’re looking for what’s on in Cornwall 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!
Next up on our What’s on in Cornwall 2023 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.
The final addition to our What’s on in Cornwall guide is one of the largest festivals in the UK, the Padstow Christmas Festival! Take a long weekend and enjoy the fun-filled delights of this wonderful event.
Watch famous chefs cook up a festive feast in the kitchen. Previous chefs who have attended include Rick Stein, Phil Vickery, and Emily Scott, to name a few.
The Christmas market has plenty of stalls offering street food and gift ideas. Whilst the festive season is celebrated with a variety of events throughout town, including a lantern parade, a firework display, and live music.
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!
