Festivals & Big Events Worth Planning Around
Dartmouth Regatta (August)
Think boats, bunting, and buzzing energy! The Dartmouth Royal Regatta is the crown jewel of South Devon’s summer events, offering sailing races, air displays, live music, and enough pasties to feed an army.
Plymouth Seafood & Harbour Festival (September)
If you love your fish fresh and your atmosphere salty (in a good way), this one’s for you. Live cooking demos, fish filleting contests (yes, it’s a thing), and plenty of local craft beer.
Totnes Festival (August)
Totnes does “quirky” like nowhere else. Expect theatre, music, poetry, eco stalls, and that unmistakable Totnes vibe—alternative, creative, and a bit woo-woo (in the best possible way).
Live Music & Theatre: Devon’s Got Talent
The Pavilions, Plymouth
From indie bands to comedy nights and tribute acts, this venue keeps West Devon entertained year-round. Check the listings—some big names do sneak in!
Open-Air Theatre at Killerton and Saltram
Bring a blanket, a flask of cider, and get your Shakespeare on under the stars. Summer evenings don’t get more magical than this.
Markets & Artisan Fairs
Tavistock Farmers' Market (Every 2nd & 4th Saturday)
Local cheese? Check. Handmade fudge? Check. Organic veg from a farm run by someone named Nigel with a beard and a philosophy degree? You bet.
Kingsbridge Celebrates Christmas (December)
Yes, it’s still ages away, but this one’s worth the hype. A festive wonderland packed with local crafts, mulled wine, twinkling lights and Santa in wellies.
Family-Friendly Events
Pennywell Farm Events
From pig racing to tractor rides, it’s adorable chaos all summer long. They’ve also got themed days throughout the year—Unicorn Week, anyone?
Dartmoor Zoo Activity Days
Home of the real-life inspiration behind the movie We Bought a Zoo—they run wildlife activity days perfect for your little animal lovers.
Outdoor Adventures & Seasonal Highlights
Coastal Walks with a Twist
Keep an eye out for guided walking tours with local historians or wildlife experts. Some even end at a pub (as they should).
Stand-Up Paddleboarding Festivals
Yes, it’s a thing. Salcombe and Bantham often host pop-up events for water sports lovers—good vibes, good waves, and zero judgment if you fall off.
