Cornwall is without a doubt one of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations, best known for its sandy beaches, picturesque harbours, and towering cliffs. You might not know, however, that Cornwall is also a buzzing hub of exciting events all year round, hosting music festivals, food festivals and the annual Pride march. We’ve put together a list of the top ten events to attend in Cornwall this year to liven up your classic Cornish holiday.
Rattler Fest (Truro) Friday 24 and Saturday 25 April 2026
Taking place annually on Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm, Rattler Fest is a vibrant two-day festival of music, cider, and unforgettable fun. Live music on the Rattler Main Stage is accompanied by plenty of other activities throughout the festival, including competitions, pool parties, celebrity DJs, fairground rides, silent discos and even Rattle Olympics! The adult-only event also features a wide range of gourmet food stalls to keep you fed and happy all weekend.
Helston Flora Day (Helston) Friday 8 May 2026
Helston Flora Day is an annually celebrated spring festival, marking the end of winter and the arrival of a new season – taking place as the trees and flowers begin to burst into life. The houses and shops of the town are decorated with greenery and floral arrangements and couples dance through the streets, entering selected houses and shops to drive out the darkness of winter and welcome the light of spring.
Fowey Festival of Arts and Literature (Fowey) Friday 1 – Saturday 9 May 2026
Taking place in Daphne du Maurier’s beautiful riverside hometown, the Fowey Festival of Arts and Literature is a fun day out for everyone – not just book lovers. One of the most significant festivals in the UK and a highlight in the regional calendar, the festival hosts talks and performances from a diverse range of authors, speakers, musicians, and artists. Don’t miss out on a day of fantastic fun and incredible inspiration!
Tunes in the Dunes (Perranporth) Friday 5 – Sunday 7 June 2026
Tunes in the Dunes is a three-day live music festival set on the golden sands of Perranporth Beach. This year, the main stage is headlined by the Kaiser Chiefs on Saturday night, supported by Scouting for Girls, and James Bay on Sunday night. The second stage will also play host to DJs spinning their decks, silent discos, and a spectacular array of other entertainment. With an epic backdrop of scenic cliffs, sand dunes and the deep blue sea, Tunes in the Dunes is a must for festival lovers.
St Ives Food & Drink Festival (St Ives) Friday 15 – Sunday 17 May 2026
St Ives Food and Drink Festival is a highlight in the region’s culinary calendar. Taking place on the iconic Porthminster Beach, the St Ives Food and Drink Festival promises culinary experts, attractions and a wide variety of local beverages and food over three full days. Boasting a fantastic range of activities, music and entertainment, there’s something for all the family to enjoy. The festival is free to attend, but any evening entertainment across the three nights is ticketed.
Royal Cornwall Agricultural Show (Wadebridge) Thursday 4 – Saturday 6 June 2026
The Royal Cornwall Agricultural Show is the county’s biggest annual event showcasing the best in entertainment, shopping, competition, food, and farming. Discover an impressive array of animals, a renowned flower show and a thriving countryside area. Don’t miss out on entertainment which will have you on the edge of your seat, a traditional steam fair which transports visitors to times gone by, and live music, song, and dance performances. Plus, take some time out for a bit of retail therapy, with almost 1,000 trade stands to explore across the site!
Golowan Festival (Golowan) Friday 19 – Sunday 28 June 2026
Inspired by one of the oldest Cornish midsummer festivals, The Golowan Festival is one of the most colourful community festivals in the South-West, blending Cornish tradition with contemporary imagery and ritual. The festival brings the past and present together in a community celebration of the traditional midsummer Feast of St John. A packed programme of artists celebrating music, performing arts and theatre, plus events including a firework display, Mazey Day, spectacular parades through the streets and a host of street entertainment, mean it’s a festival not to be missed.
Cornwall Pride (Newquay) Saturday 29 August 2026
With events running across Cornwall from February to September this year, Cornwall Pride will see the region awash with rainbow flags and pride parades as it celebrates and raises awareness of the LGBTQIA+ community. Separate events will take place in Newquay, Falmouth, St Austell and Bude, with the theme of Newquay’s celebrations being ‘supporting human rights and trans Pride’. With bigger and better events than ever before, get out the glitter and rainbow flags and join in the fun as the region celebrates its Queer community.
Boardmasters Festival (Newquay) Wednesday 5 – Sunday 9 August 2026
Boardmasters is a spectacular five-day event that takes place across two locations in Newquay – Fistral Beach and Watergate Bay. The Watergate Bay site hosts the music arena, with a whopping seven different stages hosting artist throughout all five days. Over at Fistral Beach, take part in (or just watch!) surf competitions, indulge in some retail therapy, or just sit back and relax with a cold drink. There’s even a Wellbeing Area and on-site spa for some well-deserved pamper time. This year, the sensational festival is headlined by Fat Boy Slim on Friday, Lily Allen on Saturday night and Kasabian on Sunday night!
Montol Festival (Penzance) 21 December 2026
If you’re planning a winter trip to Cornwall, The Montol Festival is a wonderful place for some family fun. The six-day arts and community festival in Penzance celebrates the midwinter solstice, Cornish midwinter traditions of the past, and traditional customs associated with Old Christmas. Throughout the week, you can take part in fun activities for the whole family, such as lantern and mask-making workshops. You’ll see strolling bands, carol services, storytelling, and bonfires, and you can even take part in some late-night shopping!
Make your Trip to Cornwall Unmissable by Staying at The Beeches Glamping
The Beeches Glamping lies in the heart of Cornwall, nestled between Newquay and Truro. If you’re looking for the ideal place to stay while you enjoy any of these unmissable events taking place in Cornwall this year, then look no further – we’ve got you covered. Click here to book your luxury glamping stay today!