What's On in Devon

Throughout the year Devon plays host to a fantastic array of events, all across the  county, see the top events going on in DartmoorEast DevonEnglish RivieraExeterExmoorMid DevonNorth DevonPlymouth and South Devon.

We're a friendly bunch here in Devon, we love to get together to have fun, share and celebrate - and we love visitors to come and join us, too. From large national events to traditional village fetes, many people plan a visit to Devon around an event that particularly appeals to them.

Just save your favourite Devon events to your planner, then browse some great places to stay.

What's on in Devon for you?

Musicsports, foodtheatre, literature, comedyart ... whatever you're in to, you'll find Devon events and festivals big and small to please you, as well as many that are family-focused. And being such a special and unique county, we've also got plenty of the more unusual, traditional events that simply can't be found anywhere else. The big Devon events are certainly not to be missed, so make sure to add them to your diaries. If you're wondering what you can do right now take a look at our monthly events calendar for events happening this month.

The quaint, the unusual and the quirky ... only in Devon

Yes, we have world-class events on a scale that matches up to any other county (see Big Devon Events for events such as the National Fireworks Competition) - but we also have plenty of events that are totally unique to Devon.

Tavistock’s Goose Fair in October dates back to the 12th century, when farmers brought their geese for sale, and drove them through the streets to the market. You may not see much of this today, but goose lunches are available across the town on that day, and market traders, showmen and fair rides gather from all over the country. 

Whilst in Ilfracombe, every July  the South West Birdman Competition sees hopeful aviators hurling themselves off the town's pier hoping to "fly" the furthest and be crowned champion. As well as the main flying event, this is part of a day-long music festival with food stalls, an ale and cider festival, artisan market and children's entertainment

And the tradition of carrying burning Tar Barrels through the streets of Ottery St Mary on November 5 is hundreds of years old, and probably started after the gunpowder plot of 1605. Devon has a history of torchlight processions, but only in Ottery do the residents actually carry full sized lighted tar barrels on their shoulders through the streets … See more of Devon's big events here. 

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Tell the Visit Devon team about it here

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The Box unveils a 2024 exhibition programme

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The Box unveils a 2024 exhibition programme featuring significant partnerships with National Portrait Gallery, Tate, National Gallery and Imperial War Museums. The Box, Plymouth’s award-winning museum, art gallery and archive, has revealed an ambitious exhibition programme for 2024. It includes…

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Great winter walks across Devon

  • 2 minute read

While Devon is delightful with the sun shining, there is something quite magical about a bracing winter walk, whether it is through the countryside or around the coastal routes. If you find yourself in Devon and want some suggestions of how to get out and enjoy the changing of the seasons, here are…

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Where to find Santa in Devon this Christmas

  • 6 minute read

It’s almost time to dust off those elves and find shelves to hide them on, so it’s no wonder that Santa is making a couple of pit stops in Devon this month to get ahead of the rush! Why not kick start your Christmas festivities by taking the kids (and the dogs!) to Santa’s grotto so he can get a…

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Six reasons to plan a forest trip this winter

  • 3 minute read

Between the famous coast and moorland of Devon lies Haldon Forest Park. The rolling green expanse of trees can be seen for miles around, tumbling across the magnificent Haldon Hills that rise above the surrounding landscape. There is something for every interest and fitness level at Haldon Forest…

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Step into a Medieval Wonderland at Wildwood Devon This Christmas

  • 1 minute read

This holiday season, Wildwood Devon invites you to step back in time with Earth Santa – a unique twist on the traditional Father Christmas experience. From the 18th to the 24th of December, Santa and his Earth Elves can be found in Wildwood’s Saxon Village – an outdoor living history centre set up…

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