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Devon is a beautiful county located in the southwest of England, known for its stunning coastlines, rolling hills, and historic landmarks. But Devon is also a hub for events and festivals, offering something for everyone to enjoy throughout the year. From music and food festivals to sporting events and cultural celebrations, there is never a dull moment in Devon. We’re a local team at Sweetcombe Cottages and have picked some of our favourite Devon events for you to visit whilst on holiday. Let’s take a look at what’s on in Devon in 2024 that you won’t want to miss.
Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival- Spring Weekend: 2st- 2nd March
A taster for the literary enthusiasts’ calendars before the festival in September. Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival’s Spring Weekend will host talks from Marcus du Sautoy, Sir Robert Niblett and Clive Myrie. There will be a pop-up bookshop and book signings too.
Canonteign Falls Easter Fun: 29th March-14th April
There is a range of activities taking place at Canonteign Falls including Alpaca Experiences where you can have one on one sessions with some very cute and friendly alpacas, as well as their usual fun, all with an Easter twist. There are a family of willow dinosaurs to discover, as well as egg hunts and adventure play areas.
Devon County Show, Westpoint: 16th-18th May
Love animals, tractors, horses, food, music, dog shows, scurry racing, funfairs, crafts, gardens, shopping as well as anything and everything associated with country life in Devon? Then you will not want to miss the Devon County show!
Sidmouth Sea Fest: 17th-18th May
A coastal community celebration, promoting environmental awareness and actions that value our marine and coastal environment. Tickets for the Friday night fundraiser are available to support the Saturday free events.
Sidmouth Jazz Festival: 23th-27th May
We’re proud to be sponsoring the Sidmouth Jazz Festival for the third year. A boutique festival by design, presenting the very best in Jazz, Blues, Roots, Soul, Latin, Funk and much more! This year’s programme includes headline evening concerts, three days of incredible live music performances on the dedicated outdoor performance stage between Saturday 25 to Monday 27 May, a wonderful free educational programme of workshops, masterclasses and performances, plus fantastic free live music events at many local venues.
Budleigh Music Festival: 28th June – 7th July
A spectacular feast of music from many genres given by musicians from diverse backgrounds. There are lunch time and evening concerts at venues St Peters and Temple Methodist Churches, The Public hall and The Green along with Church on the Green.
Exmouth Music Festival: 19th– 21st July
A free festival showcasing the arts to fuel your imagination from film to music, through literature, performance and craft.
Sidmouth Folk Festival: 2nd– 9th August
Enjoy the 70th Anniversary of the Sidmouth Folk Festival! Championing traditional music, dance and song The Sidmouth Folk Festival continues to build on its many years of success in creating an inclusive music community that embraces variety.
Beer Regatta: 10th -16th August
Get ready to enjoy Barrel Rolling, Bingo & Spoofing, Rafts & dinghy racing. Finishing with a spectacular fireworks display over the bay.
Beautiful Days, Escot Park: 16th -18th August
Beautiful Days festival has been going over 20 years, Levellers’ family music festival. Enjoy music, theatre and experience the healing village, craft stalls and a selection of great food & real ale.
Gone Wild Festival, Powderham Castle22nd– 25th August
Bear Grylls Festival is a 4 day extravaganza with over 100 activities, and great music and speakers such as The Feeling, Sam Ryder & Jake Shears.
Sidmouth Regatta: 23rd– 24th August
Enjoy sailing races, raft races and fancy dress, along with live music and a fantastic firework display to close the evening on the Saturday. The Air Show is not taking place in 2024.
Taste East Devon: 14th-22th September
A food & drink festival showing East Devon’s renowned producers, chefs, restaurants and venues. From brewery’s, seafood tasting, BBQ’s and farm feasts- some events will be ticketed and some freely open for everyone.
Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival: 18th – 22nd September
A 5 day festival celebrating books by the sea, featuring writers & thinkers across a range of genres.
Dartmouth Food Festival: 25th – 27th October
Having grown from humble beginnings in 2004 into a first-class feast of entertainment featuring workshops, seminars, tastings, competitions, demonstrations and over 100 hand-picked exhibitors.
Ottery Tarr Barrels, Ottery St Mary: 5th November
Ottery St. Mary is internationally renowned for its Tar Barrels, an old custom said to have originated in the 17th century, and is held each year. In the weeks prior to the day of the event, the barrels are soaked with tar and on the day, locals run the streets with the flaming barrels.
Exeter Christmas Market: approx. 15th November- 20th December
You’ll discover something for everyone, with over a hundred twinkling festive chalets, local gifts and produce, themed bars, global street food, seasonal entertainment and free entry into the awesome Exeter Cathedral.
Christmas at Connaught, Sidmouth: first two weeks of December, dates tbc.
A creative illuminated trail through the gardens high on the clifftops, filled with joy, wonder and a few surprises too! There is also a brilliant craft tent, perfect for Christmas shopping and delicious refreshments.
These are just a few of the many events taking place in Devon in 2023. Whether you’re a music lover, foodie, or history buff, there is always something to see and do in this beautiful county. Make sure to mark these events in your diary and book your stay with Sweetcombe Cottages to experience the best of Devon. We have a wide range of accommodation from town centre properties to countryside retreats, our local friendly team are on hand to share our knowledge of the area and help find the most suitable property for you.
