With Devon being a major tourist destination, it come as no surprise to know that there are events taking place all year round to keep locals and visitors alike entertained. There is something to amuse everyone whether you are into a music concert to a sailing championship – Devon offers it all. Below is a list of the most unmissable events.
In Plymouth:
Pirates Weekend 7th & 8th May – Enjoy a swashbuckling two days of fun inspired by the high seas as Pirates Weekend returns, with plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy!
Flavour Fest 27th to 29th May – Foodie fans are in for a treat! Known as the South West’s largest free food and drink festival, it features hundreds of local producers selling tasty treats, and a chef stage where regional cookery stars showcase their skills.
1 Big Summer 2nd to 4th June – Bringing three days of entertainment to the Plymouth Hoe, each day has been curated to appeal to a variety of musical tastes ensuring there really is something for everyone. A few of the artists confirmed so far include: Years and Years, Supergrass, Basement Jaxx, The Libertines, The Ibiza Orchestra.
Plymouth Armed Forces Day 25th June – This family fun day, will include parades, displays, interactive activities, choirs and live music, military bands and much more. They will also be celebrating the 40th anniversary of the liberation of the Falkland Islands.
SailGP 30th & 31st July – Adrenaline will be pumping throughout Plymouth Sound as the world’s most exciting on water racing returns to the city in 2022. SailGP will host its Great Britain Sail Grand Prix in Plymouth for the second year running, following a bumper event in 2021.
British Fireworks Championship 17th & 18th August – Look to the skies above Plymouth Sound as six top pyrotechnic companies showcase their very best work and battle to be crowned the champion, each putting on an extra special ten-minute display guaranteed to leave you awestruck.
Seafood & Harbour Festival 17th & 18th September – Seafood lovers will be in their element, as Plymouth Seafood and Harbour Festival returns to The Barbican and Sutton Harbour. This free festival is a vibrant celebration of the incredible sustainably caught fresh fish and seafood on offer in Britain’s Ocean City.
In Torbay:
Exeter Balloon Festival 7th & 8th May – This brand-new event is coming to Powderham, with live music, acts and firework displays and up to 15 hot air balloons will be part of a night time glow display at this stunning Devon venue.
English Riviera Airshow 4th & 5th June – It’s back and bigger than ever! Potentially the most impressive Airshow in the UK, with the backdrop of some of Devon’s best beaches and accessibility to world-class food and activities within walking distance. It will feature air displays from the RAF (including the Red Arrows!) as well as top civilian displays. It attracts almost 200,000 people to Torbay.
Devon County Show 30th June to 3rd July – A three-day agricultural show, showcasing the best of the West. There’s everything from food and farming to entertainment and fairground rides. Farming is at the very heart of the show with every competition you could imagine.
Paignton Festival 23rd to 31st July – With seven days of amazing entertainment highlights include The Party on the Green, children’s entertainment, sporting events, the Paignton Festival Royalty competition, a funfair, firework display and the carnival procession itself. This event has taken place for over 100 years. It is free although please consider making a donation, as the team support some deserving local charities.
Torbay Steam Fair 5th to 7th August – Come and view the wonderful working steam engines, vintage classic cars, lorries, and military displays. Not to mention market stalls, children’s entertainment, craft and model tent, catering facilities and beer and tea tents.
Torbay Royal Regatta 19th to 22nd August – Over many years, the Royal Torbay Yacht Club has established an enviable reputation in hosting top class regattas and championships. The English Riviera is a great place to be in August and competitors and spectators alike can be sure to receive a friendly welcome.
National Sailing Championship 9th to 11th September – Join us for a spectacular three-day event on the water with lots of competitions and great views to be had from the main seafront area.
England’s Seafood Festival 16th Sept to 20th October – For two weeks you will be able to immerse yourself in England’s Seafood FEAST, eating some of the best seafood in the world and experiencing the very best the English Riviera has to offer.
