Top Devon Events: Festivals, Fairs, and Family Fun in 2023

Nestled in the heart of the South West, Devon offers a vibrant tapestry of events that cater to every interest. From the bustling food festivals showcasing local delicacies to the serene countryside fairs, there’s always something happening to keep us entertained and engaged. Whether we’re locals or visitors, Devon’s event calendar never disappoints.

As we explore the myriad of activities, we find ourselves immersed in the rich culture and traditions that define this picturesque county. From music festivals that echo through the valleys to art exhibitions that capture the essence of Devon’s beauty, each event promises a unique experience. Let’s dive into the highlights and discover what makes Devon’s events truly unforgettable.

Key Takeaways

• Devon offers a diverse array of events that cater to all interests, including food festivals, countryside fairs, music festivals, art exhibitions, cultural activities, and seasonal celebrations.
• Prominent food festivals such as the Dartmouth Food Festival and North Devon FoodFest highlight local produce and culinary talent, making Devon a haven for food lovers.
• Music festivals like Beautiful Days Festival and Ocean City Sounds attract diverse audiences, offering a wide range of musical genres in scenic settings.
• Countryside fairs, including the Mid Devon Show and North Devon Show, showcase rural traditions, livestock displays, and local crafts, celebrating the agricultural heritage of the region.
• Annual and seasonal events, from the Devon County Show to the Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market, reflect the vibrant culture and community spirit of Devon, providing engaging experiences year-round.
• Local markets and fairs, such as Exeter Farmers’ Market and Tavistock Pannier Market, offer unique opportunities to explore local produce, artisanal goods, and traditional crafts, supporting local economies and enhancing cultural richness.

Overview Of Devon Events

Devon hosts a diverse array of events throughout the year, making it a vibrant destination for all. Our event calendar covers various interests, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Food Festivals

Devon is renowned for its food festivals. Examples include the Dartmouth Food Festival and the North Devon FoodFest. These events showcase local produce, offering attendees an opportunity to sample regional delicacies.

Countryside Fairs

Countryside fairs are a significant part of Devon’s charm. Events like the Mid Devon Show and the North Devon Show highlight rural traditions. Visitors can enjoy livestock displays, local crafts, and traditional games.

Music Festivals

Music festivals in Devon draw crowds from far and wide. Notable examples include the Beautiful Days Festival and the Ocean City Sounds. These events feature a mix of genres, catering to diverse musical tastes.

Art Exhibitions

Art exhibitions in Devon are plentiful. The Devon Open Studios and the Exeter Contemporary Open are prominent examples. These events display works from local and national artists, providing a platform for creative expression.

Cultural Activities

Devon’s cultural landscape is rich and varied. Events like the Two Moors Festival and the Dartington Summer School offer a glimpse into the county’s artistic heritage. These activities include performances, workshops, and lectures.

Seasonal Celebrations

Seasonal celebrations add to Devon’s eventful calendar. Christmas markets, such as the Exeter Christmas Market, and summer carnivals such as the Paignton Festival, add a festive spirit. These events feature stalls, parades, and live entertainment.

Our overview of Devon events captures the essence of what makes the county a lively destination. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Devon events promise engaging experiences year-round.

Annual Festivals In Devon

Devon hosts a plethora of annual festivals, each catering to unique tastes and interests. These events draw both locals and visitors, making Devon a vibrant destination year-round.

Music Festivals

Devon boasts a range of music festivals, showcasing diverse genres. Beautiful Days, held every August in Escot Park, attracts fans of rock, folk, and indie music. Ocean City Sounds in Plymouth features international artists and is popular for its seaside location. Let’s Rock Exeter offers 80s-themed performances, ensuring a nostalgic experience for attendees.

Food And Drink Festivals

Devon takes pride in its culinary heritage, evidenced by its plethora of food and drink festivals. Dartmouth Food Festival in October celebrates local produce, with chef demonstrations and food stalls. North Devon FoodFest, also in October, highlights regional specialities, providing a platform for local farmers and producers. Exeter Festival of South West Food & Drink, held every April, combines gourmet food with family-friendly activities.

Cultural Festivals

Devon celebrates its rich cultural history through various festivals. The Two Moors Festival, occurring in October, focuses on classical music performances across Dartmoor and Exmoor. Exeter’s Unexpected Festival, held in the summer, is known for immersive theatre, street performances, and contemporary art installations. Powderham Food Festival, combining culinary delights and cultural activities, takes place in October and includes storytelling and historical exhibits.

These annual festivals highlight Devon’s cultural richness and community spirit, making each event a unique experience for attendees.

Seasonal Events

Devon hosts a range of seasonal events, showcasing its vibrant culture throughout the year.

Spring Events

In spring, Devon’s events calendar comes to life with a variety of activities. The Devon County Show, held in May, offers agricultural displays, local crafts, and food stalls. The Dart Music Festival in Dartmouth features performances from local and national artists across various genres. Meanwhile, the Exmouth Festival presents a mix of arts, crafts, and musical acts, highlighting the region’s creative talent.

Summer Events

Summer in Devon features numerous outdoor events. The Sidmouth Folk Festival, in early August, celebrates folk music with concerts, workshops, and dance displays. The Plymouth Armed Forces Day in June honours military personnel with parades, air displays, and family-friendly activities. Let’s Rock Exeter, a popular retro music festival held in July, draws enthusiasts of 80s music.

Autumn Events

Autumn events in Devon focus on harvest celebrations and cultural activities. The Plymouth Seafood Festival in September showcases fresh seafood and local culinary talent. The Tavistock Goose Fair, an ancient tradition dating back to the 12th century, occurs in October and features crafts, food, and live entertainment. The Two Moors Festival offers classical music concerts across Exmoor and Dartmoor, attracting musicians and audiences from afar.

Winter Events

Devon’s winter calendar is filled with festive events. The Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market, from mid-November to December, offers unique gifts, crafts, and seasonal treats in a historic setting. The Brixham Lanterns, Lights & ‘Luminations event, held in late November, features a lantern parade and firework display. New Year’s Eve in Devon sees celebrations like the Grand Fireworks Display in Exeter, welcoming the new year with vibrant festivities.

Family-Friendly Activities

Devon offers a plethora of activities for families, ensuring fun and enriching experiences throughout the county. From outdoor adventures to educational workshops, the options are abundant and diverse.

Outdoor Adventures

Devon’s landscapes provide ideal settings for families seeking outdoor fun. Dartmoor National Park offers hiking trails suitable for all ages, including the family-friendly pathways at Haytor and Becky Falls. Along the coastline, we find numerous beaches like Woolacombe and Bigbury-on-Sea, perfect for sandcastle building and rock pooling. Adventure parks, such as the Woodlands Family Theme Park and Crealy Theme Park, feature rides, animal encounters and play areas, guaranteeing a day full of excitement for children.

Educational Workshops

Many venues across Devon host workshops that combine learning with enjoyment. The Royal Albert Memorial Museum in Exeter frequently organises interactive art and history sessions tailored for younger audiences. At the Bill Douglas Cinema Museum, families can discover the history of filmmaking through hands-on activities. The Paignton Zoo runs a variety of workshops focused on conservation and wildlife, with opportunities for children to engage directly with animals and nature.

Local Markets And Fairs

Devon hosts an array of local markets and fairs, offering unique opportunities to explore local culture and produce. Exeter Farmers’ Market, held every Thursday, showcases fresh, local produce such as seasonal fruits, vegetables, and homemade preserves. Multiple stalls feature artisanal cheese, baked goods, and organic meat.

Tavistock Pannier Market, operating from Tuesday to Saturday, is a must-visit for its variety of traditional crafts, antiques, and hand-made jewellery. This market includes special events like the annual Christmas Market, where festive decorations and gifts are prominent.

Totnes Market, an eclectic mix held twice weekly, attracts shoppers with its vintage clothing, ethically sourced products, and exotic street food. The Friday market focuses more on local arts and crafts, while the Saturday market highlights fresh farm produce. Here, live music sets a lively atmosphere, contributing to the market’s vibrant vibe.

For a nostalgic experience, visit Ashburton Antiques Fair held monthly. This event draws enthusiasts with its range of antique furniture, collectibles, and rare books. It provides an excellent venue for finding unique, historical items.

Barnstaple Real Food Market, occurring on the second Sunday of the month, celebrates North Devon’s culinary diversity. Vendors offer locally sourced honey, cider, and handmade chocolates. The market also features live cooking demonstrations by local chefs, making it a food lover’s paradise.

Teignmouth Farmers’ Market, held on the last Saturday of each month, is known for its community-centric setup. This market emphasises sustainable and organic produce, supporting local farmers and artisans.

Newton Abbot’s Outdoor Market, occurring twice weekly, is an engaging place to find everything from fresh fish to potted plants. Special events include themed markets, such as the monthly craft and artist market showcasing local talent.

Honiton Market, operating on Tuesdays and Saturdays, is famous for its diverse offerings, including local crafts, fresh produce, and unique gifts. The town centre transforms into a bustling hub, reflecting the market’s historical significance in Devon.

These markets and fairs play significant roles in Devon’s event calendar, enhancing cultural richness and supporting local economies through community engagement. Visitors have ample opportunities to immerse themselves in these vibrant, community-driven events.

Conclusion

Devon truly offers an exceptional variety of events and activities that cater to all interests and ages. From the vibrant food festivals to the tranquil countryside fairs and cultural celebrations, there’s always something to look forward to. Our county’s rich traditions and community spirit shine through in every event, making Devon a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors.

Whether you’re exploring the local markets, enjoying a family-friendly adventure, or immersing yourself in the artistic and musical festivals, Devon’s events calendar promises unforgettable experiences. Let’s embrace the unique charm and diversity of Devon’s events and make the most of everything this beautiful county has to offer.