Discover Devon: Events to Enjoy in 2026
Devon hosts a varied and exciting calendar of events throughout the year, celebrating food, music, walking, culture and local traditions. Whether you are planning a short break or a longer stay, there is always something happening to enhance your visit.
Staying at the Bedford Hotel in Sidmouth places you perfectly for exploring East Devon and beyond. After a day out enjoying one of the county’s many festivals or events, return to comfortable accommodation, friendly service and a warm welcome by the sea.
February
Snowdrop Valley, Exmoor
Dates TBC (usually February)
A beautiful seasonal event where thousands of snowdrops carpet the valleys of Exmoor. Timing is weather dependent.
March
Budleigh Literary Festival
13 – 14 March
A well-loved literary weekend featuring author talks, readings and discussions.
Find out more here.
Valley of a Million Bulbs, East Devon
Weather dependent (usually March)
Rolling hills covered with daffodils and spring flowers, with dates varying each year.
Find out more here.
April
Valley of a Million Bulbs, East Devon
Weather dependent (occasionally early April)
If the season runs late, this spectacular display can extend into April.
Find out more here.
May
Brixham Pirate Festival
2 – 4 May
A lively, family-friendly event with parades, costumes and entertainment.
Find out more here.
Salcombe Crabfest
3 May
A coastal food festival celebrating local crab and seafood.
Find out more here.
Sidmouth Sea Fest
15–16 May
A vibrant community festival celebrating the sea, with live music, local food stalls and activities in Connaught Gardens.
Find out more here.
Dart Music Festival, Dartmouth
15 – 17 May
Live music performances in venues across the town.
Find out more here.
Sidmouth International Jazz & Blues Festival
22–25 May
Four days of live jazz, blues and soul music in Blackmore Gardens and venues across Sidmouth.
Find out more here.
Devon County Show, Exeter
21–23 May
A traditional agricultural show showcasing rural life, livestock, food and countryside skills.
Find out more here.
Flavour Fest South West, Plymouth
29 – 31 May
The South West’s largest food and drink festival.
Find out more here.
English Riviera Airshow
29 -31 May
A spectacular free airshow over the Torbay coastline.
Find out more here.
June
English Riviera Walking Festival
6 – 21 June
A programme of guided walks along the South Devon coast and countryside.
Find out more here.
BHP Fuel Fest, Exeter
21 June
The Southwest’s biggest automotive event.
Find out more here.
Budleigh Music Festival
26 June – 4 July
A popular festival featuring classical and contemporary music performances.
Find out more here.
July
SidyFest, Sidmouth
Dates TBC (early July)
A community music festival held at Sidmouth Rugby Club.
Exeter Craft Festival
9–11 July
A celebration of contemporary craft and makers in Exeter.
Find out more here.
Exmouth Festival
9 – 12 July
Live music, performances and family entertainment by the sea.
Find out more here.
Bike Festival South West
Dates TBC (early July)
Cycling events, exhibitions and activities
August
Sidmouth International Folk Festival
31 July – 7 August
One of the UK’s most famous folk festivals, filling Sidmouth with music, dance and cultural events.
Find out more here.
Honiton Show
6 August
A traditional agricultural show celebrating rural life.
Find out more here.
Torbay Steam Fair
Dates TBC (early August)
Steam engines, vintage vehicles and fairground attractions.
British Firework Championships, Plymouth
Dates TBC (August)
Spectacular firework displays over Plymouth Sound.
Sidmouth Regatta and Air Display
Dates TBC (August)
A summer highlight featuring traditional regatta events and an air display over the bay.
September
Sidmouth and East Devon Walking Festival
Dates TBC (September)
A week of guided walks exploring the Jurassic Coast, countryside and local villages.
Budleigh Literary Festival
23 – 27 September
A well-loved literary weekend featuring author talks, readings and discussions.
Find out more here.
Sidmouth Vintage and Classic Car Show
Dates TBC (September)
A popular event showcasing classic vehicles in a relaxed seaside setting.
Taste East Devon Food Festival
Dates TBC (September)
A festival dedicated to the produce of East Devon, located in the venues that showcase the best our region has to offer.
Find out more here.
October
Sidmouth Science Festival
9–18 October
Talks, workshops, exhibitions and hands-on activities celebrating science and learning.
Find out more here.
Exmoor Dark Skies Festival
16 October – 1 November
A celebration of Exmoor’s night skies with stargazing events and talks.
Find out more here.
Dartmouth Food Festival
24 – 26 October
A vibrant celebration of food, drink and culinary talent.
Find out more here.
Powderham Food Festival
Dates TBC (early October)
Showcasing the region’s best food and drink producers.
Find out more here.
November
Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels
5 November
A dramatic and historic local tradition held annually on Bonfire Night.
Find out more here.
Exeter Christmas Markets
Dates TBC (late November)
Festive stalls, food and gifts set against the backdrop of Exeter Cathedral.
Find out more here.
December
Exeter Christmas Markets
Dates TBC (through December)
Festive stalls, food and gifts set against the backdrop of Exeter Cathedral.
Find out more here.
