South Devon has many festivals, events and regattas over the summer months so there is always plenty to do whether you’re a visitor or resident. This summer’s highlights include..
7 – 9 July - Fairfield Farm, Denbury, Newton Abbot
Devon’s Music & Arts Festival which takes place at the home of Auntie Moos Ice Cream. Multiple music stages, Pucker Poets Stage and Entertainment Stage as well as Free Harmony Healing Area and the colourful Butterfly Bazaar. www.Glas-denbury.co.uk
7 – 17 July - Dartington Hall, Totnes
This popular festival of words and ideas celebrates its 26th anniversary in 2017 and uniquely combines a distinguished programme of speakers in the sublime setting of Dartington Hall. The event continues to provide a wide range of topics to entice the curious: Time, Istanbul, Fake News, The Art of Losing Control, Muslim Britain, Lenin, Mindfulness and the world of Beatrix Potter. www.wayswithwords.co.uk
8 July - Blackpool Sands, Dartmouth
The Venus Company is excited to announce the launch of their first ever Beach festival with music, entertainment and food and drink all set on one of Devon’s favourite beaches. 8.30am – 11pm. www.lovingthebeach.co.uk
14 & 15 July- St Mary’s Park, Brixham
Brixham’s wonderful family friendly festival with something for everyone. A packed music stage, food and entertainment for all and the chance to dance under the stars. All raising funds for local charities. www.brixhamhapnin.org and facebook page.
14 – 16 July - Embankment, Kingswear
Run by the Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company this is an event with uninterrupted, panoramic views over the River Dart. There will be over 60 local ales and ciders on tap with live music (including The Wurzels on Saturday) and a BBQ. www.kingsbeerfestival.com
15 – 22 July
A week of events to suit all ages with competitions, music, entertainment and much more. Fair in town with crowning of fair queen, carnival parade and fireworks. www.kingsbridgefairweek.co.uk
22/23 July - Dartington Hall, Totnes
Puck looks forward to welcoming everyone of all ages to another magical weekend of family theatre, puppetry, dance, circus, comedy and music. FREE entry. www.midsummerdreamsfestival.co.uk
22 – 30 July - Paignton Green
Previously known as Torbay Carnival Week this event raises money for local charities whilst providing 9 action-packed days of entertainment for all the family. The famed carnival procession will take place on 26 July with the Party on the Green and fireworks on Saturday 22 July. www.paigntonfestival.com
28 – 30 July - Galmpton & Paignton Seafront
A must for any Volkswagen enthusiasts. Two nights camping in Churston with Sunday activities on Paignton seafront for the usual ‘Show and Shine’ events with kids entertainment, refreshments and live music. www.dubsathebeach.com
DARTINGTON SUMMER SCHOOL & MUSIC FESTIVAL
29 July – 26 August - Dartington Hall, Totnes
The annual Summer School and Music Festival which brings together musicians of all ages and levels to create a fantastic atmosphere of study and friendship, celebration and performance. www.dartington.org.
30 July - Berry Pomeroy, Totnes
A great family day out at this traditional local show showcasing the best of life in the South Hams. Sheep, cattle and horses compete for showing honours. A wide range of displays and parades, music stage, as well as the home, handicraft and horticultural marquee. www.totnesshow.com
30 July - Embankment, Dartmouth
Great South Devon crab in a convivial environment on the embankment. Eat, drink and celebrate our delicious local crustacean! From 12noon. For tickets and further info check www.therockfish.co.uk
4 – 6 August - Churston, Brixham
A show for all the family encompassing all forms of Steam with many working engines on display. Plenty of entertainment, activities for all as well as live music and food and drink. www.torbaysteamfair.co.uk
5 August - Coronation Park, Dartmouth
A festival all about dogs! A main arena will host dog shows, agility courses and demonstrations and displays as well as plenty of other dog-friendly and family orientated activities. www.woofstockuk.co.uk
5 August - The Quay, Dittisham
The annual much-loved village event on and by the water with events and many races for all the family to enjoy. Check facebook page and local venues for further information. www.dittisham.org.uk
5 - 12 August
Regatta week transforms Salcombe bringing a carnival atmosphere with fun things to do on and off the water. The week culminates with exciting firework display on the Thursday and the infamous crabbers’ race on the Friday. Check SalcombeTownRegatta facebook page for further details.
5 – 13 August - Paignton Seafront
Lots of fun for all the family on the Green with music, tribute bands, fun dog shows, competitions and the famous Regatta fireworks. www.paigntonregatta.com
13 August - Slapton Ley Field Centre
A day-long celebration of ‘all that is good’ about the Start Bay area showcasing local arts and crafts, food and the great outdoors. A full programme of outdoor and indoor activities and entertainment. www.slnnr.org.uk
SALCOMBE GIN SYC REGATTA
13 – 18 August
Busy few days of sailing mixed in with some vibrant social events around the Salcombe Estuary all supported by new sponsor Salcombe Gin. www.salcombeyc.org.uk
14 – 19 August
Including traditional events throughout the week: Children’s Fancy Dress and the fun ‘Odd Object Competition’. Grand Carnival Procession on 13th August. Starts around 6pm. Check facebook page for further details.
18 – 23 August - Torbay Harbourside
This year’s regatta is as busy as ever with rowing, sailing and other waterborne activities as well as the ever popular fair and firework display. www.torbayroyalregatta.co.uk
20 August - Pool Meadow, Frogmore
Traditional family friendly fun on the water and in the meadow. 12noon – 6pm. www.frogmore.info
PORT OF DARTMOUTH ROYAL REGATTA
24 – 26 August
Dartmouth’s flagship event with sailing, rowing and a full programme of events for all the family including air displays and fireworks. www.dartmouthregatta.co.uk
25/26 August - Totnes
A town festival run by a record shop in glorious Devon. Performers from the world of folk, jazz, rock, classical, world, opera, choral music and dance come together in celebration of Totnes’ rich cultural life. www.seachangefestival.co.uk
26 August – 3 September
A repeat of last year’s inaugural event with a number of walks, tours and outdoor activities for walkers of all ages and abilities. www.dartmoorwalkingfestival.co.uk
2 September
A community event with core principles of inclusivity, empowerment, diversity and equality. www.proud2be.co.uk
2 September - Bovey Tracey
Popular festival of music, craft and food along Fore Street with a range of produce and craft events around the town. The Devon Street Food Awards return, with concerts in the town and the very first Nourish Gin Festival. www.nourishfestival.org
2 September - Borough Farm
A fantastic day out for all the family offering classes in Horses, Cattle, Sheep, Homecraft, Young Farmers, Horticulture, Floral Art and Domestic pets as well as lots of other entertainment and fun. From 9am. www.kingsbridgeshow.co.uk
9 September
The annual and award winning Seafood and Music Festival in the beautiful seaside town of Brixham, Devon supporting The Fishermen’s Mission Charity. www.fishstockbrixham.co.uk
INTERNATIONAL AGATHA CHRISTIE FESTIVAL
13 – 17 September - Torre Abbey, Torquay
This biennial event includes five days of eclectic and unexpected song, stories, dance, provocative lectures and amazing journeys. www.iacf-uk.org
