What's On This Weekend?
Posted 10th Mar 2025
What’s On This Weekend? Exciting Local Events in 2025
If you’re looking for something fun to do, you’re in luck! There’s always something happening around South Devon, whether you’re into food festivals, thrilling races, historical traditions, or family-friendly fun. Here’s a roundup of some of the best events happening this year, so you can start planning your days out now.
May
Brixham Pirate Festival (3rd – 5th May)
Ahoy, mateys! If you love pirates, this festival in Brixham is an unmissable event. Expect thrilling re-enactments, live music, and plenty of pirate-themed fun. Perfect for families and anyone who enjoys a bit of adventure. Read our ultimate Pirate Festival Guide here!
Blackawton International Festival of Worm Charming (4th May)
Yes, you read that right—this quirky event sees participants competing to charm worms out of the ground. It’s a hilarious and unique experience that makes for a fantastic day out in Blackawton.
Salcombe Crabfest (4th May)
Seafood lovers will adore this festival dedicated to the delicious local crabs of Salcombe. Enjoy live cooking demonstrations, tastings, and plenty of activities for all ages.
UK Waterski Racing Championships (24th – 25th May)
The UK Waterski Racing Championships return to Torquay for the second and third rounds of the competition, bringing top-tier racing action to the English Riviera. This event is also a crucial world selection race, where athletes aiming for the 2025 World Championships will compete along the stunning Devon coastline.
Both Saturday and Sunday serve as official world selection races, with extended race times on Saturday for competitors taking part in world selection.
Brixham Heritage Sailing Regatta (23rd – 25th May)
The Brixham Heritage Sailing Regatta has its roots in the Sailing Trawler races that have been held in Torbay since the early 1800’s. In 1914, King George V presented the Perpetual Challenge Cup also popularly known as the ‘King George V Cup’ or the ‘Kings Cup’, to be raced for by Brixham registered sailing trawlers over 40 tons. This was competed for annually from 1919 until 1939 when the war ended racing, it was not re-started for almost 60 years.
The Brixham Heritage Sailing Regatta was revived by enthusiasts in 1997. Under the organisation of the Heritage Sailing Committee, the event will once again be hosted by Brixham Yacht Club.
English Riviera’s UNESCO Global Geopark Festival (24-30 May)
A celebration of the international significance of the area’s Geopark status, with a range of events and activities right across the Bay. The programme of events includes walking tours, sustainability events, creative and nature based activities both on and off the water.
Get out there and experience our wonderful geopark!
English Riviera Airshow (31st May – 1st June)
Look up to the skies for breathtaking aerobatic displays over the stunning coastline. This free event in Paignton features the famous Red Arrows and other incredible aircraft. Find out everything you need to know on our dedicated Airshow Blog and why Beverley Holidays has the best views!
June
English Riviera Walking Festival (14th – 22nd June)
If you love the great outdoors, this is for you! Explore the stunning South Devon coast with guided walks suited to all abilities. A great way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
Torbay Pride (14th June)
A vibrant celebration of diversity and inclusion, Torbay Pride is a fantastic day full of entertainment, parades, and community spirit.
Brixham Trawler Race (21st June)
Skippers dress the boats with bunting and battle it out with two lap race around the Bay and fun and festivities on the quayside all raising money for local charities.
The winner is not always the first across the line as there is a very strict handicapping system.
English Riviera Swim (29th June)
Our English Riviera Swims are getting more popular every year. We are offering you a chance to do a 3000m, 1500m or 750m swim at Torre Abbey Sands in Torquay.
English Riviera Triathlon (29th June)
The English Riviera Triathlon offers fast exciting spectator friendly racing in the centre of Torquay. It starts with a sea swim from sheltered Torre Abbey Sands beach. The Sprint bike is a fast & fairly flat 4K closed road bike circuit. For 2025 we’ve extended the Standard Bike course to 5K to make it an 8 lap bike which is easier for competitors to count.
July
Electric Bay Festival (11th – 13th July)
Dance music fans will love this high-energy festival in Torbay, featuring top DJs and an incredible party atmosphere right by the sea. Featuring Bloc Party and Fat Boy Slim.
Mascot Race at Newton Abbot Racecourse Family Fun Day (20th July)
A brilliant day out for families, with funfair rides, activities, and the hilarious sight of mascots racing each other in giant costumes! Come and cheer on our very own Beverley Bear and Sandy Starfish in their race to victory.
Paignton Festival (26th July – 3rd August)
The Paignton Festival is a vibrant nine-day community event featuring a lively carnival procession, live music, funfair rides, family activities, a classic car show, a dazzling fireworks display, and a variety of food and drink stalls—all set along the Paignton seafront.
August
Torbay Steam Fair (1st – 3rd August)
Step back in time and marvel at vintage steam engines, classic cars, and old-fashioned fairground fun. Not only a must for history buffs and machinery lovers but a great day out for all the family.
Paignton Festival (26th July – 3rd August)
This week-long celebration (previously Torbay Carnival) is packed with live music, fireworks, and family entertainment.
South West Sardine Festival (3rd August)
A free event in Brixham with music all day, street entertainers & kids activities. Join celebrity guest chefs, including Nathan Outlaw, Mark Hix and Mitch Tonks, to celebrate the humble sardine.
Torquay Brick Festival (3rd August)
This will be a great day for families, collectors, adult builders and every other kind of LEGO fan. With lots to see and do including speed building competitions, large scale displays, activities, traders selling loose bricks, new LEGO sets, retired LEGO sets, minifigures & accessories plus a dedicated building area.
British Firework Championships (13th – 14th August)
One of the UK’s biggest firework events, this competition in Plymouth sees teams battle to put on the most dazzling display over the water.
Children’s Week (19th – 23rd August)
5 Days of free children’s entertainment on Paignton Green. Including Craft activities, Mascots, Sandcastle competitions and a full day of Sci Fi characters and movie cars.
180th Dartmouth Royal Regatta (28th – 30th August)
The Dartmouth Royal Regatta is one of the most anticipated events of the summer, combining thrilling water sports, lively entertainment, and a fantastic carnival atmosphere. The event features sailing and rowing races, aerobatic displays, and parades, drawing competitors and spectators from across the country. The highlight is the spectacular firework display on the final evening, lighting up the River Dart. With plenty of food stalls, live music, and family-friendly activities, the regatta offers something for everyone, making it a great day out by the water.
Torbay Royal Regatta (22nd – 25th August)
Another brilliant boating event, with plenty of excitement both on and off the water, including funfairs, live music, and great food.
September
Torbay Half Marathon (21st September)
Runners from across the country gather for this scenic race along the beautiful coastline. A great challenge for both seasoned and first-time runners.
Dart 10k (13th/14th September)
The Dart10k is the first and finest marathon-distance outdoor swim in the UK. For the last 17 years, the event has provided a classic big-swim challenge along one of the UK’s most beautiful swimming journeys. Swimmers come from all over the UK and all over the world to tick it off their bucket list.
The Dart10k follows the classic route down the River Dart from Totnes, punctuated by iconic landmarks such as the Cormorant Tree, the white rock, Sharpham boathouse, Bow Creek and finishing at Greenway House, National Trust.
Agatha Christie Festival (13th – 21st September)
Held on the English Riviera, Agatha Christie’s birthplace, this festival features a mix of author talks, murder mystery events, theatre performances, guided tours, and writing workshops. Visitors can explore key locations that inspired her famous detective stories, including her holiday home, Greenway, and other sites along the Agatha Christie Mile. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just love a good mystery, this festival offers a fascinating insight into one of the most iconic authors of all time.
Superchamps (5th – 7th September)
The Stand Up Paddle English Riviera Championships are an action-packed weekend of thrilling sports competitions, bringing together athletes and spectators for some high-energy fun. The SUPERCHAMPS will have multiple races over the three days. Fun formats that are great for first time competition in the form of ‘rock up & race’ and 25 m sprints. Also there is all the standard world race formats of 150m straight line sprints, 3km technical & 14km distance race.
England’s Seafood Feast (26th September – 12th October)
England’s Seafood Feast is a must-visit event for food lovers, celebrating the incredible seafood found along the English Riviera. Held across Torbay’s top restaurants, cafes, and food venues, this two-week-long festival showcases the freshest local catches, from succulent crab and juicy scallops to world-famous Brixham fish. Expect special tasting menus, seafood-themed events, live cooking demonstrations, and opportunities to meet the passionate fishermen and chefs behind the dishes. Whether you’re a lifelong seafood fan or just keen to try something new, this festival is a delicious way to experience the best of Devon’s coastline.
October
Dartmouth Food Festival (24th – 26th October)
The Dartmouth Food Festival is a paradise for food lovers, celebrating the best of local produce, top celebrity chefs, and delicious flavours from across the South West. Set in the picturesque town of Dartmouth, this three-day event features cookery demonstrations, tasting sessions, food markets, and expert talks. Visitors can sample everything from fresh seafood and artisan cheeses to craft drinks and handmade treats. With live entertainment and family-friendly activities, the festival offers a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit for anyone who enjoys great food and drink in a beautiful coastal setting.
November
Tar Barrel Rolling in Ottery St Mary (5th November)
One of the UK’s most famous and unique Bonfire Night traditions, this sees brave participants carry flaming barrels through the streets. Definitely a must-see spectacle!
December
Bay of Lights (28th Nov 2025 – 2nd Jan 2026)
Get ready for a magical festive experience as the Bay of Lights transforms the English Riviera into a twinkling winter wonderland throughout December. This dazzling event brings illuminated displays, sparkling light trails, and festive entertainment to Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham. Visitors can enjoy Christmas markets, lantern parades, live performances, and even the chance to see Santa. The highlight is the stunning light installations along the seafront, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere for an evening stroll.
Plan Your Perfect Weekend!
With so many incredible events happening throughout the year, you’ll never be short of things to do. Whether you’re looking for high-energy festivals, family-friendly fun, or unique local traditions, there’s always something on to keep you entertained in South Devon.
So, what’s on this weekend? Check the list, pick your favourite event, and get ready for a great time!
If you’re staying at Beverley Holidays, there’s plenty of entertainment right on your doorstep! From live shows and family-friendly activities to swimming fun, there’s always something happening on park. Enjoy themed evenings, bingo, and fantastic performances in the Starlight Bar, or relax with a delicious meal while soaking up the coastal views. Kids will love the adventure playgrounds, crazy golf, and meeting Beverley Bear and Sandy Starfish. Plus, with seasonal events and special celebrations throughout the year, you’ll never run out of things to do. Check out what’s on during your stay and make the most of your holiday!