Sidmouth Sea Fest @ Connaught – Kicking Off Festival Season
Sidmouth Sea Fest 2025 is all set to launch Sidmouth’s vibrant festival season on Saturday, May 17th, at its new temporary venue – Connaught Gardens, Peak Hill Road, Sidmouth EX10 8RZ.
This year’s theme, Sidmouth Sea Spot @ Connaught, highlights the festival as a homegrown platform by the sea—a nursery ground where talent thrives and flourishes.
A Festival with Purpose
Sidmouth Sea Fest is more than just a festival; it’s a celebration with a cause:
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Supporting young and local musical talent
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Raising awareness for marine and coastal conservation
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Bringing the coastal community together
This multi-generational event promotes community wellbeing, fun, and creativity—a true reflection of Sidmouth’s vibrant spirit.
What to Expect at Sidmouth Sea Fest 2025
Sea Fest offers an exciting mix of entertainment and activities, including:
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Live music, choirs, and dancing
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Comedy performances
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Creative art activities
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Community and green groups
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Local craft, food, and drink stalls
This year’s special edition at Connaught Gardens will shine a spotlight on grassroots music, thanks to an Arts Council England grant. Look forward to ‘talent spots’ featuring bands, DJs, and diverse music genres, fostering the next generation of musical talent.
Sea Fest Community Choir – Join the Rehearsals!
The Sea Fest Community Choir kicks off rehearsals on Saturday, March 29th, from 2 PM to 4 PM at St Francis Hall, Woolbrook Road. Open to all, the choir will headline the festival at 11 AM on the main stage.
Event Schedule
Free Family Day
📅 Saturday, May 17th | 10 AM – 5 PM
A day packed with fun, entertainment, and creativity for all ages.
Sea Fest Party (Ticketed Event)
📅 Saturday, May 17th | 6 PM – 11 PM
An evening of live music, performances, and celebration.
Exciting New Venue Features
Sidmouth Sea Fest’s new site at Connaught Gardens will feature:
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Sea Fest Arena – The main stage
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The Clock Tower Stage – In association with the Clock Tower Café
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Creativity on the Coast – Located in the Sunken Garden
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The Boatyard – A hub for interactive exhibits
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Craft & Community Trail – Showcasing local artisans and community initiatives
A Word from the Organisers
Louise Cole, Director of Sidmouth Coastal Community Hub:
“We are thrilled to bring Sea Fest to this beautiful new location. Relocating from the Ham for two years was a challenge, but it has given us the opportunity to innovate, collaborate, and create something truly special.
This year, we’re strengthening our grassroots music ecosystem by working with Devon In Music Initiative, Devon Music Education Hub, local festivals, venues, and schools. We’ve also introduced a new volunteer pathway for young people at Sidmouth College, helping them gain vital work experience and develop confidence and employability skills.”
Coco Hodgkinson, Artistic Director of Sea Fest:
“Our free creative activities will inspire, encourage sustainability, and connect everyone with their artistic side. This stunning garden setting overlooking the sea is the perfect place to recharge, have fun, and celebrate creativity.”
Supporting a Sustainable Future for Live Events
The ticketed evening event helps cover production costs, ensuring that Sidmouth Coastal Community Hub can continue to offer this much-loved free community celebration. As opportunities for emerging musicians diminish, local festivals remain essential for nurturing the talent of tomorrow.
Join us at Sidmouth Sea Fest 2025—a festival filled with music, creativity, and community spirit!
