You are here: Home > Explore Cumbria > Areas of Cumbria > Carlisle & Hadrian’s Wall > What's On
There’s a packed calendar of events to enjoy in and around Cumbria’s city of Carlisle. From live music and theatre to markets and festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this bustling cultural and artistic hub.
When it comes to music, Carlisle has plenty to offer. Outdoor concerts take place in the centrally located Bitts Park – Little Mix, Jess Glynn and Sir Tom Jones are just a few of the artists who have played here over the years. There are indoor gigs too, with internationally renowned musicians regularly including the city on their tour circuits; alongside comedy and theatre too. And in the city centre, live music can be found in vibrant pubs and bars.
Talking of shows, Carlisle knows how to put on a spectacle in its own right. The city is awash with rainbow colours during the annual Pride Festival, which features plenty of amazing events including music, markets, and the iconic parade through the city. The annual November fireworks display is not to be missed, while come Christmas you can enjoy lights switch on events and festive markets.
There is so much entertainment to enjoy in Carlisle and Hadrian's Wall. Make sure to check out what’s on and plan ahead so you don’t miss anything!
You may leave the Lake District, but once you’ve been, it’ll never leave you.

Number of results: 31
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Carlisle
Beneath the ancient skyline of Carlisle, hidden stories linger in every red-brick shadow and echo off cathedral spires. This self-guided audio tour turns your walk through Caldewgate into a vivid adventure, unwrapping secrets and scandals most…
Durdar Rd, Carlisle
Be part of history at Carlisle Racecourse this summer as we host one of the most iconic fixtures in the racing calendar – The Carlisle Bell, the world's oldest sporting trophy, first contested in 1599.
This historic race is the centrepiece of a…
Carlisle Racecourse, Carlisle
The Abbey, Carlisle
Join us for a summer evening of great music beneath our starlight ceiling, featuring the Boy and Girl Choristers, Consort and Lay Clerks, accompanied by the Cathedral organ. The programme will comprise choral and organ masterworks from the French…
Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle
The Promenade, Maryport
A series of three fun and creative art workshops using driftwood from the Solway Coast and found objects. Led by local artist Joe Kewin participants can make and take-away their own driftwood sculture. Places are limited to keep the group small and…
Senhouse Roman Museum, Maryport
The Abbey, Carlisle
Acclaimed pianist Ida Pelliccioli returns to the Cathedral's Fratry Hall in 2026 presenting a new programme of pieces celebrating the work of Claude Debussy and his influences.
This programme aims to create echoes between the music of Debussy…
The Abbey, Carlisle
'Our Outreach Programme works with 100s of schoolchildren from across the Diocese and three times a year pupils come together for a grand concert inside the Cathedral - the programme includes popular tunes for everyone, including choral standards,…
Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle
Carlisle
Our series of free Afternoon Recitals continues, we are delighted to welcome Alastair Savage to the Fratry Hall. Organised as part of the free recital series.
While entry to our concerts is complimentary, we encourage contributions during the…
Durdar Rd, Carlisle
NOW ON A SATURDAY!
Get your summer plans sorted and join us for an unforgettable evening at Carlisle Racecourse!
It's glamour, style, and racing at its finest – and it's not just off the track! Carlisle's Ladies Night is proud to feature the…
Carlisle Racecourse, Carlisle
The Abbey, Carlisle
Our series of free Afternoon Recitals continues, we are delighted to welcome Dominic Downs, Pianist, Composer and Conductor back to perform for us.
While entry to our concerts is complimentary, we encourage contributions during the collection at…
Tarn Road, Brampton
Outdoor theatre suitable for all ages at Talkin Tarn Country Park.
Join the critically-acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company on a breathless race through the centuries in this delightfully inventive show that tells the entire story of Britain in…
Talkin Tarn Country Park, Brampton
The Abbey, Carlisle
Our popular Block Printing Workshops return to the calendar on Saturday 30 May and Saturday 18 July!
Our friendly workshops take place in the Undercroft, and guests will use a beautiful selection of printing blocks and an appealing choice of colours…
Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle
The Abbey, Carlisle
We are delighted to welcome Jonathan Pilgrim to the Cathedral as part of the Free Live Music Series at Carlisle Cathedral, and we very much hope you can join us and offer him a warm welcome
This event is free to enter; there will be a retiring…
Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle
The Abbey, Carlisle
We are delighted to have Harry Brown back at the Cathedral, on Wednesday 29th July at his next Organ Recital organised as part of the Free Live Music Series at Carlisle Cathedral.
Take some time out of your day and unwind with a free afternoon…
Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle
The Abbey, Carlisle
Our popular series of free Afternoon Recitals continues — we're delighted to welcome Bob Pritchard and Mike Ames to the Fratry Hall.
This event is free to enter; there will be a retiring collection at the end of the concert - please give what you…
The Abbey, Carlisle
Join us on August 8th at the breathtaking Carlisle Cathedral, for 'Our precious concert' — one of our most beloved and best-selling programmes!
Experience the majestic and timeless music of the legendary Lord of the Rings films in a…
Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle
Maryport
Maryport is welcoming back Taste Cumbria on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 August 2026 for the Taste of the Sea festival.
After the success of expanding it over two sites last year, that will happen again this Summer, ensuring it makes the very best use…
Carlisle
Our series of Afternoon Recitals continues. For today's recital we are delighted to welcome Anna Morley to the Fratry Hall.
Entry is free; a collection will be taken at the end of the concert. Please pay what you can to support the artist and the…
Tarn Road, Brampton
Outdoor theatre suitable for all ages at Talkin Tarn Country Park.
The critically acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company present their own brand of Shakespearean mayhem in the Bard's comedy of fools, duels and dual identities.
"Some are born great,…
Talkin Tarn Country Park, Brampton
The Abbey, Carlisle
We are delighted to welcome Victoria Ulriksen back to the Cathedral. She has kindly agreed to perform for us once again as part of the Free Live Music Series at Carlisle Cathedral, and we very much hope you can join us and offer her a warm…
Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle
Carlisle
Join us at the 10th Anniversary Blacknose Beauties National Show & Sale — the pinnacle event in the Valais Blacknose Society calendar, celebrating the famous Valais Blacknose sheep, often known as the "world's cutest sheep."
Held in Carlisle,…
Receive all the latest news, special offers and information from the Lake District, Cumbria
Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL