What’s On in the Lake District and Cumbria

Whatever time of year you want to visit the Lake District, Cumbria, we have something planned to keep you entertained, engaged and energised. From country fairs and garden parties to beer festivals and agricultural shows, this is very much #ThePlaceToBe – at all times of the year.

We Cumbrians love to celebrate things – food, music, literature, the great outdoors – and nothing delights us more than sharing the wealth of our heritage and landscape with visitors from all over the world.

The county comes alive to the sound of music – and we mean all kinds of music, from classical to alt rock. Kendal Calling is Cumbria’s version of Glastonbury, but there’s all kinds of other musical celebrations to choose from, from folk weekends centred on a brewery to a music festival that also includes outdoor activities – so you can follow a 5k run with a beer and some live music.

We’ve no shortage of festivals that celebrate the great outdoors, which is hardly surprising given that the Lake District, Cumbria is one of Europe’s most beautiful corners. Walking festivals, fell runs, competitive bike races, orienteering challenges…whatever way you like to tackle or enjoy nature, we’ve got something for you.

And when you’re done exerting yourself, you’ll be looking for something to eat, and in Cumbria we know how to celebrate our remarkable food heritage. There are foodie events all over the county spread throughout the year, including our tribute to the mighty Cumberland sausage in May. Taste Cumbria hosts a series of great festivals between April and October with lots of food stalls and cooking demos, and you can taste your chilli endurance at the Holker Chilli Fest, held in the grounds of gorgeous Holker Hall in September.

And don’t forget beer. We’re big fans of it in Cumbria – we like to brew it, drink it and celebrate its very existence with over a dozen brilliant festivals throughout the year, ranging from big events spread over a couple of days that draw in crowds from all over England to smaller events in cosy rural pubs deep in the heart of rural Cumbria.

Christmas markets, Easter fairs and seasonal celebrations are huge in the county, but maybe you’d prefer something a little more…unique? You can come enjoy the World's Original Marmalade Awards at Dalemain, or explore the county in the Great Peter Rabbit Egg Hunt, a tribute to local literary legend Beatrix Potter. And, keeping it literary, how about stepping back in time at the Ulverston Dickensian Festival?

We’re having a party; come and join us.