| January | February | March | April | May | June |
| July | August | September | October | November | December |
January
Every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, Barnstaple Pannier Market and Farmers Market, North Devon
A wide range of goods, local foods and drink every week
More information on the pannier market website.
January to March, East Devon Farmer's Markets
Exmouth Farmers Market (every second Wednesday of the month); Cullompton Famers Market (every second Saturday of the month); Honiton Farmers Market (every third Thursday of the month); Seaton Farmers Market (every third Friday of the month); Ottery St Mary Farmers Market (every first Friday of the month except January).
More information on the Exeter and Essential Devon website.
01 January - 31 March, Love Winter at Crealy
Parts of Cornwall's Crealy open at weekends to brighten the winter months!
More information on the Crealy Cornwall website.
A magical evening at the ancient ceremony of apple tree wassailing. Join the lantern parade led by the Wassail singers to the orchard for the traditional Wassail ceremony. Then be entertained by the Newton Bushel Morris Dancers, Bovey Tracey Mummers, folk music and story-telling.
More information on the Stoke Gabriel website.
01 - 31 January RAMM Exhibition, Cutting Edge
Come and watch stone transformed into deadly tools with objects from Exeter museum.
More information on the website.
30 January to 21 February, Snowdrop Valley, Exmoor
Carpeted with snowdrops each February, this hidden valley deep in the heart of Exmoor forms a glorious backdrop to the River Avill.
More information about the valley.
February
07 February, St Ives Feast/Hurling the Silver Ball, West Cornwall
At 10.30am on Feast Monday the silver ball is thrown from the wall of the Parish Church. Once the ball is caught by a member of the crowd below, it is passed from one to another on the beaches and streets of the town. Whoever is in possession of the ball when the clock strikes noon the traditional reward of five shillings.More information on the St. Ives website.
More information on the St. Ives website.
09 February 2012, Family Ghost Tours at Dartmouth Castle
See the spooky side of Dartmouth Castle with a family-friendly ghost tour. Experience the castle in a unique way as historical characters lead you around, and you’ll hear toe-curling tales to bring it to life. Not recommended for children under 8.
More information on the English Heritage website.
12 February 2012, Snowdrop Sunday at Hartland Abbey, North Devon
Now one of the South West's best days out for Spring, the beautiful Hartland Abbey opens its gates again for a snowdrop Sunday. Hundreds turn up to admire historic carpets of snowdrops once planted by monks for the abbey, and dogs are welcome too.
More information on the Hartland Abbey website.
March
18 March 2012, Daffodil Sunday, Hartland Abbey
Hartland Abbey Gardens burst into a carpet of daffodils during spring, and entry to the grounds is reduced for this special event. Dogs are welcome, and all areas of the historic gardens are open to the public.
More information on the Hartland Abbey website.
5 March, St Piran's day celebrations, Perranporth, Cornwall
The annual St Piran Play takes place on Perran Sands. Hundreds of people make the pilgrimage to celebrate the Patron Saint of Tinners. This event often takes place on the Sunday following St Pirran's day.
More information on the Perranporth website.
31 March, St Endellion Music Festivals, Collegiate Church of St Endelienta, Port Isaac, Cornwall
The St Endellion Music Festivals takes place in the Collegiate Church of St Endelienta, bringing together a wide range of exciting musicians from all over the world.
More information on the Festival website.
17 25 March, Falmouth Spring Festival, Cornwall
This is one of the newest events in Cornwall! The Falmouth Spring Festival includes guided walks around the area, a Srping fair, fashion show and more - all making the most of the area's stunning scenery.
April
31 March - 01 April, Cornwall Spring Flower Show, Lostwithiel
A celebration of Cornwall's gardens with trade stands, floral displays and competitions, Gardeners' Question Time and live music.
More information on the website.
30 April - 2 May 2011, Brixham Pirate & Shanty Festival
Grab your eye patch and sword and come along to the biggest pirate party in Devon! The highlight of the event is the world record attempt to create a mile of pirates!
More information on the website.
22 - 29 April 2011, Bluebell Week at Hartland Abbey
Come and see our beautiful bluebells and other spring flowering bulbs and shrubs; walk the lovely paths around the gardens and through woodland to the beach where ‘Sense and Sensibility’ was filmed. See the newly restored Summerhouse, lost since World War II.
For more information see the Hartland Abbey website.
02-01 April, Exeter Festival of South West Food & Drink, Northernhay Gardens and Exeter Castle.
Celebrity chefs, tastings, beer festival
More information on Visit South West.
23-27 April, Boscastle Walking Week, North Cornwall
Enjoy a week of walking some of Britain's finest landscapes with Boscastle Walking Week.
More information on the website.
30 April, Trevithick Day, Camborne, West Cornwall
Trevithick Day is a one day festival of free entertainment to celebrate the industrial heritage of the Camborne Area, including their famous son, Richard Trevithick.
More information on the Trevithick Day website.
16-17 April, The Footman James 31st Bristol Classic Car Show
One of the major classic car events of the year and will host over 70 trade stands, 200 autojumble stall and 75 club stands.
More information on the show website.
30 April - 03 May, St Agnes Bolster Festival, Cornwall
The St Agnes Bolster Festival celebrates the defeat of the legendary giant, Bolster, who terrorised the village of St Agnes until his eventual demise. The festival includes street processions, traditional activities and even an appearance from the giant over the May bank holiday!
27 April-6 May, North Devon & Exmoor Walking Festival 2011
Grab your walking boots for the UK's most scenic walking festival!
For more information see the festival website.
May
05 - 06 May, Covelly Folk Festival, North Devon
Introducing the very first Clovelly Folk Festival! Visitors can enjoy live music, buskers, street entertainment and morris dancers throughout the weekend. Tickets are £15 for adults and £35 for a family (2 adults and 2 children).
More information on the Clovelly website.
04 -06 May, BMAD Festival, Paignton, South Devon
Bikers Making A Difference - the annual festival on Paignton Green. This years proves to be no exception as the weekend boasts a fantastic line up of entertainment including motorcycle displays, trade stands and live music.
More information on the BMAD website
01 May, Padstow 'Obby 'Oss, Padstow, North Cornwall
Those born in the town dress up in traditional white clothing with a sash in support of the Red Oss or the Blue Oss. Each Oss parades through the streets to a hypnotic folk song celebrating the arrival of Spring and May. Some believe it to be an ancient fertility festival.
More information on the Padstow website.
05 - 06 May, Brixham Pirate and Shanty Festival, Brixham, South Devon
Brixham Buccaneers' swashbuckling spectacular, with a Pirates of the Caribbean event on the Friday, Pirate day on the Saturday and an attempt to break the record for the most pirates in one place
More information on the festival website.
7-22 May, Isle of Wight Walking Festival
The UK's biggest walking festival features more than 300 walks with a range of themes, rambles and trails.
http://www.isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk
05 -07 May, International Beach Kite Festival, Weymouth, Dorset
Britain's biggest kite festival brings excitement to the skies with hundreds of colourful kites of all shapes and sizes.
More information on the VisitWeymouth website.
22 May - 5 Sept, Weston-super-Mare Sand Sculpture Festival, Somerset
Sculptors from the World Sand Sculpture Academy, will once again get together to create an exhibition of incredible sand masterpieces on the beach at Weston.
01-31 May, Art @ Delamore, Ivybridge, Devon
Artists both established and new are gearing up for the sixth annual exhibition Art @ Delamore 08. Featuring more than 150 leading painters and sculptors from the Southwest and across the UK, this show promises to have something for everyone.
More information on the Delamore website.
11-13 May, Dart Music Festival, Dartmouth, South Devon
During the 2010 Festival over eighty events took place in the town including jazz, choral, acoustic guitar, blues, opera, big bands, organ recitals, orchestral and a string quartet. Could 2011 be bigger and better?
More information on the Dart Music Festival website.
The Daphne du Maurier Festival of Arts and Literature takes place in and around the novelist's home town of Fowey in Cornwall featuring an array of famous writers, performers and celebrities.
More information on the festival website.
17-19 May, Devon County Show, Clyst St Mary, Exeter
The county's biggest annual event showcasing local food and drink producers, livestock and entertainment.
More information on the show website.
26-28 May, Clovelly Celebration of Local Ales and Cider
Here's a chance to enjoy the local brews of modest Devon breweries! The celebration will showcase North Devon's many unique ales and ciders.
More information on the Clovelly website
28-31 May, Run to the Sun Festival, Newquay, Cornwall
Run to the Sun is entering its 23rd year and has grown into one of the largest Custom Car, VW and dance festival in Europe featuring four music arenas and a range of acts.
More information on the Run to the Sun website.
31 May - 10 June, The Telegraph Hay Festival, Hay-on-Wye
Britain's biggest literary fesival never fails to attract the biggest names in the world of literature, and it's great fun for book lovers of all ages.
More information on the Telegraph Hay Festival website.
June
01-30 June, North Devon Festival
The North Devon Festival is rapidly establishing itself as one of the key festivals in the UK: top quality arts and entertainment, plus events associated with the people and the place.
More information on the festival website.
15-17 June, Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival
The Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival is an international affair, with sea shanty singers from all over the world performing live at various venues throughout the town. Come along for this rousing event by the sea!
More information on the Falmouth Shout website.
02 June, New Inn Street Party for the Diamond Jubilee, Clovelly, North Devon
Celebrate the queen's diamond jubilee in the charmin village of Clovelly! A street party will be held for the day to mark this landmark royal occasion. Usual entry fee to Clovelly will apply.
More information on the Clovelly website.
23 June, Golowan and Mazey Day, Penzance
Penzance bursts into a scene of colour and light for the Fest of St John each year, and this event includes many traditional dances and performances in the streets of the town, thrilling visitors and residents.
22-24 June 2011, Isle of Wight Festival
This year's festival will see Pearl Jam, Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers and many more descend on the island for three days of live music and fun!
For more information see the website.
02 June, Ashburton Carnival, Devon
One of the oldest, possibly the oldest, surviving in Devon. Written records date it back to 1891, but it is believed to have been started in the mid 1880s to raise funds for a new hospital. Ten days of activities culminate in the grand procession of floats on the Saturday and a National Tug-of-War event on the Sunday
07-09 June, Royal Cornwall Show, Wadebridge, Cornwall
The premier event of the Royal Cornwall Agricultural Show - trade stands, exhibitions, displays, floral marquee and something for all the family.
More information on the show's website.
15-24 June, Babbacombe Festival, South Devon
12-day Festival starting with the ever-popular Babbacombe Fayre on Babbacombe Downs. Event includes a sailing regatta, live music, films and charity events.
More information on the Babbacombe website.
12 June, Plymouth Mega Ride
The Plymouth Mega Ride (PMR) is now probably the UK's largest charity motorcycle ride out with thousands of motorcyclists taking part. Always popular with vast number of spectators that show up on the day.
More information on the Mega Ride website.
25 June, Pixie Day, Ottery St Mary, Exeter
An event commemorating the legend of the town's infamous pixies (played by local children) being banished. The day includes a fete, festival and fireworks.
More information on the Pixie Day website.
21-24 June, Shaldon Classical Music Festival, South Devon
A week-long event showcasing local music talent. In 2009 the pre-eminent conductor and teacher of choral music, Sir David Willcocks, gave a masterly display of conducting at the opening event.
More information on the festival website.
15-17 June, GoldCoast Oceanfest, Croyde Bay, North Devon
Showcasing over 25 live music acts on stage with top international artists, adjacent to an oceanside arena hosting a Trade Village incorporating licensed bars & global cuisine. Grassroots surf and sk8 events and pro workshops, adrenalin zones, exhibitions, sampling booths, simulators and hospitality suites, all add to the eclectic ambience of the event.
More information on the Oceanfest website.
One of the most challenging walks in the Exmoor annual calendar.
More information on the Active Exmoor website.
18-26 June, Golowan Festival, Penzance, West Cornwall
Seven days in June when Penzance celebrates the Feast of John Golowan - an exciting and varied festival of music, art, film, stories, walks, poetry and dance, featuring the Mazey Day Mardi-Gras procession and street entertainment on June 26th.
More information on the Golowan Day website.
16-17 June, Saltash Regatta and Waterside Festival, Saltash, Cornwall
Fun on the water and on dry land - gig racing, craft fair, continental market, music and much, much more.
More information on the Saltash Regatta website.
25 June-10 July, Exeter Summer Festival
A sensational line up of international, national and local artists each year. Within the genres of Comedy, Classical, Dance, Family and Free, and Contemporary and World Music, there are usually over 40 events.
Late June, Annual English Riviera Geopark Festival, English Riviera, South Devon
A two-week celebration of the area's stunning natural heritage. Kids can enjoy all sorts of educational fun including a Bugs Life Weekend at Living Coasts, Farmyard Fun at Occombe Farm and Fun with Fossils at the Seashore Centre and Cave Treasures at Kents Cavern.
More information on the English Riviera website.
July
01-03 July, Lyme Regis Jazz Festival, Dorset
21st Lyme Regis Jazz Festival featuring live music at various venues around the town.
More information on the West Dorset website.
16 July, Lafrowda Day, Penzance
The Lafrowda Festival in Penwith, Penzance celebrates arts in the community with a programme of cultural events and activities throughout the area.
More information on the festival website.
13-14 July, Newt Beer Festival, nr. Bridgwater, Somerset
Somerset's largest beer and music festival.
More information on the festival website.
07-08 July, Dorset Seafood Festival
A fabulous range of events take place on this famous old harbourside on the Waterfront at Weymouth. Cooking demonstrations by top chefs; a wine matching exhibition; a fresh fish auction and book signings by the famous chef authors are all expected. There are also 2 days of live folk music giving the festival a real carnival atmosphere.
More information on the Festival website.
23-24 July, 6th Annual Kingswear Regatta, South Devon
A fun family weekend featuring a series of rowing events and entertainment around the waterfront
More information on the regatta website.
West Country pilot gigs were designed to carry pilots out to ships. The first one alongside won the pilotage job, so speed was critical.The row from Clovelly to Lundy and back is a true test of endurance over 32 miles of sea - it can take up to four hours, depending upon the weather and tides. So come along and support the brave crews!
05 July, Spirit of the Sea Maritime Festival, Weymouth, Dorset
Celebrating the area's close relationship with the sea, the festival brings together a range of sporting activities, cultural events and entertainment including live music on Weymouth seafront and the Weymouth Regatta.
More information on the website.
Ten days packed full of cultural entertainment! Entertainment ranges from cookery demonstrations, literary events and stand-up comedy, to children's arts and drama workshops, countless musical acts and even a laughter workshop!
More information on the festival website.
15 July, Clovelly Maritime Festival
There's something for everyone at the Clovelly Maritime Festival, held in aid of the North Devon Hospice. It's a day of traditional seaside entertainment, including shanty singers, Punch and Judy, a Pirate show with sword fight, juggling with cannon balls, crabbing competition and lots more. Enjoy delicious seafood or a succulent spit roast on the beach. The Old Gaffers Association will be coming along - they're devoted to the conservation of traditional sailing craft and our maritime heritage.
19-22 July, Port Elliot Estate, Plymouth
Dubbed "Glastonbury for books", the Port Eliot Festival in St Germans has everything from cabaret performances, film screenings and art showings to poetry slams, engaging literary discussions, artistic workshops and a host of fun activities to amuse the kids.
More information on the festival website.
20-22 July, Boconnoc Steam Fair, Boconnoc Estate, Lostwithiel, Cornwall
Traction engines, miniature steam engines, classic, vintage and veteran cars, on show, together with a craft and model trade stands and a vintage fairground.
More information on the Steam Fair website.
83 July, Mid Devon Show, Tiverton, East Devon
Billed as the 'best one day agricultural show in the West', this large agricultural show has a wide range of stalls, food exhibits, events and entertainments; a great day out for the whole family.
More information on the Mid Devon Show website.
July, The Grand Day Out, Wadebridge, Cornwall
The Grand Day Out is a big fundraising funday in aid of Cornwall Hospice Care on 24th July 2011 at the Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge. It will include a Cornish craft & local produce fair, antiques and vintage market, children’s activity area and a large ‘It’s a Knockout’ team challenge.
The event will be open from 10am - 5pm, Tickets available on the gate.
26 July, Woolsery Agricultural Show, Clovelly Court
Summer in North Devon would not be complete without a visit to this country agricultural show. There are many classes for cattle, horses, and sheep, along with pony competitions. You'll find bustling trade and exhibition stands with stalls offering locally made crafts and foods. The children will be kept busy with fairground rides and a bouncy castle. A great summer day out for all the family!
29 July, Totnes & District Agricultural Show, South Devon
A great day out for the whole family featuring displays of cattle, ducks, sheep and chickens as well as sheep sheering and falconry. The show has a staggering food hall and the very best of the region's produce and crafts. There's even terrier and ferret racing.
More information on the Totnes Show website.
Late July, Marldon Apple Pie Fair, Marldon, South Devon
Traditional village fete where a donkey cart pulls an enormous apple pie around the village.
More information on the Visit South Devon website.
Late July, Teignmouth Carnival Week, South Devon
A range of activities for the whole family featuring a wide variety of entertainers throughout the day and a battle of the bands in the evening.
More information on the carnival website.
August
August, Cowes Week Regatta 2011, Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight hosts one of the UK's biggest annual sailing events, and there's always plenty to see and do offshore when you're not watching the races too.
More information on the Cowes Week Regatta website.
03 -10 August, Sidmouth Folk Week, East Devon
A world-renowned event featuring music, singing, dancing, pub sessions, storytelling, lying on the beach, and dancing the night away at Late Night Extra.
More information on the festival website.
08-12 August, Relentless Boardmasters, Newquay, Cornwall
Europe's biggest surf, skate and music festival. This years Watergate Bay event will be headlined by Fatboy Slim to mark its 30th anniversary!
More information on the festival's website.
Early August, Paignton Regatta, South Devon
Sailing events and land-based events including a fairground on Paignton Green, fireworks, live music, a dog show and a car festival. Watch out for the Paignton Pudding...
03-04 August, Taunton Flower Show, Somerset
The best flower show in the West featuring a spectacular floral marquee and the competition classes, as well as entertainment for the whole family.
More information on the show website.
10-12 August, Dartmoor Folk Festival, South Zeal, Okehampton, Devon
Three days of music, song and dance, crafts, demonstrations and entertainers
More information on the festival website.
03-05 August, Torbay Steam Fair, Churston
The annual Torbay Steam Fair has always been a hugely popular event, but this year is set to be even more spectacular as it marks its 25th year!
More information on the official website.
11-19 August, Henri-Lloyd Falmouth Week, Falmouth, Cornwall
The largest sailing regatta in the South West featuring racing in the harbour, in the bay and a wide range of shore-side events.
More information on the Falmouth Week website.
August, Salcombe Town Regatta, South Devon
A fun event featuring Crabber racing, fireworks and air displays, sailing, sandcastle competitions and a wide variety of other entertainment.
More information on the Salcombe Regatta website.
August, British Fireworks Championships, Plymouth Sound
Displays start around 9.30pm each evening; a variety of entertainment, including fairground rides, takes place on the Hoe.
More information on the British Fireworks website.
19-21 August, West of England Steam Rally, St Agnes, West Cornwall
Annual steam rally bringing together a rare collection of vintage steam engines. Rural crafts, Potters, Woodturners and trade stands feature as well as a great traditional fun fair.
More information on the Steam Rally website.
August, 105th Camelford Agricultural Show, Cornwall
A fantastic local show with a wide range of livestock events and competitions as well as food and craft tents.
More information on the show's website.
09 August, Okehampton and District Agricultural Show, Devon
One of the larger regional agricultural shows, the Okehampton and District has a wide range of livestock classes, a great beer tent, barrel racing and scurry racing as well as equine events.
More information about the Okehampton Show.
11-18 August, Dawlish Carnival and Air Show, South Devon
One of Devon's largest Carnivals and one of the UK's largest internationally recognised free air shows.
More information on the carnival website.
Mid-late August, Torbay Children's Week, South Devon
A wide range of activities take place on Paignton Green including pavement drawing, pirates gold, treasure hunts, sandcastle competitions, storytelling, circus workshops and live music.
More information about Children's Week.
68 August, The Chagford Show, Devon
Traditional agricultural show featuring displays of livestock, horse and pony events, a flower marquee food hall
More information on the Chagford Show website.
August, Torbay Week, South Devon
Sailing regatta featuring a variety of races including the South West IRC Championships, the Impala Championships and the J Cup.
More information on the Torbay Week website.
27 August , Newlyn Fish Festival, West Cornwall
Billed as the biggest one-day event in Cornwall, this event features an array of seafood stands selling hot and cold seafood, including grilled Cornish sardines, mackerel, Newlyn crab, lobster, mussels, cockles, fish kebabs, Goan dishes and seafood paella. There are demonstrations from the coastguard, local fishing boat competitions, music, Cornish food producers and local artists and craftsmen.
More information on the festival website.
Traditional regatta featuring rowing and sailing events and entertainment throughout the week.
More information on the Shaldon Regatta website.
Last week in August, Topsham Town Fayre, East Devon
A week of events and celebrations including music to, fruit and flower shows a carnival and the ceremonial 'herding of the sheep' through the town.
Late August, 115th Holsworthy And Stratton Show, Holsworthy, North Devon
A traditional agricultural show featuring heavy & light horses, ponies, cattle, sheep, driving, goats, a women's institute produce competition and flower show.
27 August-02 September, Bude Jazz Festival, Bude, North Cornwall
New Orleans comes to Cornwall! Bude is the small and unspoilt seaside town on Cornwall's beautiful Atlantic Coast that hosts one of Britain's leading jazz festivals
More information on the festival's website.
12 - 14 August, Brecon Jazz Festival, Brecon Beacons
Don't miss this dazzling celebration of all things jazz! This year's line up includes Alice Russell, aquarium, Maceo Parker, Allen Toussaint, BBC Big Band and many more top acts.
More information on the Brecon Jazz Festival website.
27-29 August, Morval Vintage Steam Rally, Cornwall
34th year of the three-day steam festival which includes demonstrations, trade stands, falconry and dog displays, live music and even clay pigeon shooting
More information on the Rally website.
30 August-01 September, Dartmouth Royal Regatta, South Hams
The 168th Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta is sure to include red arrow and other air displays, street entertainment and of course plenty to see on the River Dart!
More information on the official website.
September
September, Kingsbridge Show, South Devon
The last agricultural show in the region's rural calendar, featuring livestock, entertainment, show jumping, craft, food and drink marquees
More information on the official website.
Early September, Youth and Masters Windsurfing Championship, Weymouth, Dorset
Two-day surfing spectacular watched by crowds of spectators.
More information about Weymouth events.
Early September, Lobster and Crab Feast Clovelly Harbour, North Devon
A tribute to Clovelly's famous lobsters and crabs. A day of live folk music, street performers, lobster hypnotist, quay kitchen, wine and beer tasting, local stalls, live exhibits, photographic exhibition and entertainment for the children too.
More information on the Clovelly website.
Early September, Totnes Festival, South Devon
A celebration of the hugely diverse range of events and activities that go on in and around this famous market town featuring music, the arts, performance, crafts, literature, fashion, film, food, ecology and alternative lifestyles
More information on the website.
Early September, Ham Hill Fayre, Ham Hill Country Park, Stoke-sub-Hamdon, Somerset
Come face to face with Iron Age warriors, Roman soldiers, Medieval knights and Victorian gentry! Watch the demonstrations, join in the interactive games and activities, buy local crafts at the many stalls, listen to medieval music and tempt your taste buds with wonderful local produce.
Early-Mid September , Polo on the beach, Watergate Bay, North Cornwall
Top polo players hit the surf for the UK's original beach polo event at Watergate Bay
More information on the Watergate Bay website.
September, Lobster & Crab Feast
This popular event pays tribute to Clovelly's famous lobster and crabs. There's always a fun party atmosphere, so come along and enjoy a day of live folk music and theatre. And will you be able to resist the charms of the lobster hypnotist? There will be local craft and food stalls, a quay kitchen with cookery demonstrations, wine and beer tasting, and no shortage of entertainments for the children including a crabbing competition. And it's in aid of the National Lobster Hatchery at Padstow!
12-19 September, Agatha Christie Festival, English Riviera, South Devon
Murder-mystery dinner dances, tea dances, river and sea cruises, talks, seminars, plays and films, and a classic car treasure hunt.
More information on the English Riviera website.
September, Widecombe Fair, Widecombe in the Moor, Devon
First held in the 1850's, Widecombe now attracts many thousands of visitors. The famous folk song recalls the story of Uncle Tom Cobley and his friends riding to Widecombe Fair on a grey mare. Needless to say, he and his faithful nag will be there again this year along with a range of animals and local produce.
More information on the fair homepage.
Mid September, Newquay Fish Festival, Newquay, North Cornwall
This three-day festival sees cooking demonstrations featuring top Newquay chefs using locally caught fish to cook up a storm. Live bands, entertainers and produce stalls all feature, and there's even an annual sandcastle competition.
More information on the festival website.
10-24 September, St Ives September Festival, West Cornwall
A festival of art and music featuring a wide and diverse range of events and activities including talks, films, poetry, jazz, classical, rock and folk music.
More information on the festival website.
Late September, Cornwall Food and Drink Festival, Truro
A fantastic foodie event with more than 20 top chefs demonstrating their cooking skills. The event includes a large food marquee celebrating the very best of Cornish food and drink.
More information on the Festival website.
Late September, Abbfest, Abbotskerswell, Devon
An annual three day ale and cider extravaganza held between Abbotskerswell and Ipplpen. Scores of Devon breweries take part each year, showcasing in excess of 120 ales and more than a dozen ciders. Live entertainment is laid on throughout the weekend and more than 60 Devon food and craft stalls provide the perfect place to find an early Christmas present.
24 September - 02 October, Appledore Book Festival, Appledore, Bideford, Noreth Devon
The power of books has created one of Britain's newest and most exciting festivals in one of Britain's most stunning locations.
More information on the festival website.
23-26 September, South Devon Walking Festival
Event featuring around 30 walks for all ages and abilities with some especially designed for families.
More information on the festival website.
30 September-3 October, North Devon & Exmoor Walking Festival 2011
Grab your walking boots for the UK's most scenic walking festival!
For more information see the festival website.
October
First week of October, Boscastle Food, Arts and Crafts Festival, Boscastle, North Cornwall
The fifth festival of food will bring together the region's best producers, growers and suppliers, together with some of the most talented chefs in Cornwall, if not the whole country
More information on the Visit Boscastle website.
Festival to celebrate the best food and arts in South Devon.
Mid October, Falmouth Oyster Festival, Falmouth, West Cornwall
Celebrating the start of the oyster season the Festival has a broad appeal and is a must for all oyster, seafood and marine heritage enthusiasts.
More information on the festival website.
Mid October, North Devon FoodFest
An event packed full of local producers selling a wonderful range of gastronomic delights. The event sees the return of the extremely popular chef's demonstrations and live music - making it a great day out for all the family.
October, Tavistock Goosey Fair, Tavistock, Devon
Market traders and showmen from all over the country come to town TO celebrate this ancient Goose Fair.
Late October, Pumpkins in the Park, Greenhill Gardens, Weymouth, Dorset
Halloween celebrations in Greenhill Gardens, amongst the autumnal colours.
More information about Weymouth events.
Late October, Falmouth Beer Festival, Falmouth, West Cornwall
A great beer festival with a broad range of 150 local and national ales, real lagers, real ciders and perries. Hot & cold food, as well as live entertainment and pub games, are a feature of this event.
Late October, Dartmouth Food Festival, South Devon
Foodie extravaganza featuring celebrity chefs, parties, food markets, tasting shacks, demonstrations and special events
More information on the festival website.
30 October, Punkie Night at Hinton St. George, Somerset
A Somerset Halloween tradition. Every year the children of Hinton St. George parade candlelit pumpkins around the village boundary singing the age-old Punkie Night chant of "Give us a candle, give us a light; it's Punkie Night tonight" - this is followed by the judging of the carved pumpkins.
November
Around November 5th, Guy Fawkes Celebrations, Weymouth, Dorset
Thousands of locals and tourists gathering along the Esplanade to enjoy stunning seafront fireworks and other family related events, such as a fun Guy Fawkes contest.
More information about Weymouth events.
05 November, Tar Barrel Rolling, Ottery St Mary, East Devon
A traditional custom featuring 17 tar-soaked barrels which are lit and carried around the streets of the town. The true origin of the event is unclear but theories range attempts to ward off evil spirits, through to a signal to warn of the Spanish Armada. Event includes a funfair and a massive bonfire ignited on the banks of the River Otter.
More information on the Tar Barrel rolling website.
05 November, Bridgwater Carnival, Somerset
Over 120 large and colourful floats parade through the streets of the town. Entertainment in the town throughout the day, procession starts at 7.00pm followed by Squibbing (the simultaneous firing of lots of large fireworks) in the High Street.
More information on the carnival website.
10 November - 10 Dec, Taste South East Cornwall, Looe and Polperro
Looe flies its foodie colours with a month-long celebration of the area's produce and cuisine. Local producers, restaurateurs and businesses come together to create a gastro-extravaganza.
More information on the Taste South East Cornwall website.
18-20 November, Teignmouth Jazz Festival, South Devon
12th Anniversary of this fantastic and highly popular Jazz Festival featuring well know and highly regarded performers. There's something for every taste: New Orleans, Swing, Modern and Contemporary.
More information on the Visit South Devon website.
19 November, Christmas Sparkle, Torquay, South Devon
Come along to Torquay town centre and see Father Christmas and some of the X Factor contestants. There will be live music, a broadcast from Palm FM and the Christmas lights switch on - all between 11am - 6pm.
More information on the English Riviera website.
December, Santa Steam Services, Dartmouth Steam Railway
The Dartmouth Steam Railway Santa Express will be getting into the festivie spirit throughout December, as it ferries passengers through the stunning countryside in style. Passengers will be treated to mince pies and lollies, and there’s even the chance to come face to face with Santa!
More information on the Dartmouth Steam Railway website.
18 November, Clovelly Herring Festival
This Herring Festival is held in support of sustainable fishing by traditional methods and to celebrate the herring. Mike Smylie will be there with his popular 'Kipperland' exhibition, smoking delicious kippers and bloaters. Simon and Ann Cooper will be bringing along their curragh, making nets, and demonstrating flax processing and knitting. Enjoy herring specialities, local cider and wine, shanty singing, a walk-about theatre and masses of stalls. And Jim MacCool, founder of National Poetry Month, will be performing his show of infectious verse and toe-tapping Celtic rhythms.
26 November, South Brent Winter Floodlit Carnival, Devon
One of the largest processions in South Devon, consisting of award winning floats from across South and East Devon, plus float up to 100ft long from the Bridgewater and Somerset circuits.
More information on the Visit Devon website.
December
1 - 2 December, Fowey Christmas Market, Cornwall
The pretty town of Fowey celebrates the festive season with a two-day market in 2012, and it will include plenty of live entertainment, food and drinks. This event is a treat for the whole family..
More information on the Fowey Christmas market website.
December, Dunster by Candlelight, Somerset
Two day spectacular in this wonderful medieval village The festival kicks off at 5.30pm on the Friday with the atmospheric lantern lighting procession through the village until all the lanterns in the streets have been lit. During both evenings there are a variety of street entertainers, including Carol Singers, Morris Dancers, Hand Bell Ringers, a Brass Band, a large Fairground Organ and Choirs in the Parish Church.
More information on the Dunster by Candlelight website.
December, Mousehole Lights Switch On, Penzance
The Mousehole Harbout Lights have become famous throughout the South West, and thousands visit this little fishing village near Penzance to admire the twinkling illuminations that decorate every inch of it throughout the run up to Christmas! Boats, shops fronts, homes and signs become wrapped in glistening light, creating a magical sight.
More information on the Mousehole Harbour Lights website.
December, Santa in the Caves, Kents Cavern, Torquay
Torquay’s Kents Cavern may not seem a likely place for Santa to hang out, but he’ll be hiding deep in the caves waiting for visitors from 4 – 24 December. Mother Christmas and the Fairy of the Caves will help visitors find him and receive a special gift.
More information on the Kents Cavern website.
December, Santaland at Wookey Hole
Wookey Hole is one of Somerset's most enchanting sites, and Santaland is one of the most stunning grottos in the South West! The underground wonderland will include real live reindeer, a special Christmas circus and even the opportunity to meet Santa! He will be there with his elves to greet visitors.
More information on the Wookey Hole website.
In aid of the RNLI. (Procession starts at about 4 p.m. from the Visitor Centre. Entry free after 2 p.m. with small parking charge) Christmas is a magical time at Clovelly, so don't miss the switching on of the village Christmas lights. A brass band leads the procession down to the harbour. There's mulled wine, a barbecue, rousing carols, and Father Christmas makes a surprise visit. At 5 p.m. the switch is thrown and the entire village and harbour are lit up - it's a fantastic sight. And there are fireworks to finish off a perfect day.
