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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. Whether you are looking for what's on in the Lake District, or what's on in Cumbria, we have you covered with the best list of events taking place.
We Cumbrians love to celebrate things – food, music, literature, culture, 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. We’ve got festivals aplenty, from folk weekends centred on a brewery to a music festival that also includes outdoor activities – hardly surprising given that the Lake District, Cumbria is known for its natural beauty. Walking festivals, fell runs, competitive bike races, orienteering and challenge events… whatever way you like to tackle or enjoy nature, we’ve got something for you.
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 markets and foodie events all over the county spread throughout the year, from a celebration of marmalade to a chili eating competition. Taste Cumbria hosts a series of great festivals between April and October with lots of food stalls and cooking demos.
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. Discover big events spread over a couple of days that draw in crowds from all over England, and smaller events in cosy pubs deep in the heart of rural Cumbria.
Christmas markets, Easter fairs and seasonal celebrations are huge in the county, too. From agricultural shows to festive fun, we’ve got you covered. How about stepping back in time at the Ulverston Dickensian Festival? Check out our Lake District, Cumbria blog for bags of inspiring articles on places to visit and things to see.
We’re having a party. Come and join us.
Number of results: 548
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Bowness
Join us in the Learning Centre this May half term for free, hands-on activities designed to spark curiosity, creativity and learning through play.
Make a Flying Fish
What kinds of fish live in Windermere? Get creative in the Learning Centre…
122A Highgate, Kendal
12-4pm | 16+ yrs
Have you wanted to give our incredible clay courses a go but you're not sure if it's for you? Join our resident ceramist and artist, Chris Barnes, to explore clay and get your hands dirty in our studio in a fun, informal and…
Ambleside
Our popular Introduction to outdoor swimming course takes place at either Rydal Water or Waterhead, Ambleside. The morning session is ideal for those who are new to outdoor swimming. It aims to enhance your knowledge and boost your confidence while…
Rydal Water, Ambleside
Blackwell - the Arts & Crafts house, Bowness-on-Windermere
Looking for something creative to do with the kids this May half term? Join us at Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts house for hands-on crafting activities inspired by our new Useful/Beautiful exhibition.
Decorate a Pot!
Decorate your own paper pot…
Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts House, Bowness-on-Windermere
Kirkland, Kendal
Celebrate spring at Abbot Hall with creative, family-friendly activities running throughout the Easter holidays. From hands-on crafts to gallery adventures, there's plenty to keep curious minds busy.
Draw a Self-Portrait!
Draw a self-portrait…
Abbot Hall, Kendal
Ravenglass
Experience medieval magic where knights clash, stories unfold, and the past comes alive!
Each year, Muncaster invites you to step into the past and immerse yourself in the wonders of the Medieval era. The Medieval Muncaster Festival is a grand…
Muncaster Castle, Ravenglass
Nr Kendal
Calling Pokémon fans new and old from 23 May, get active outdoors on our Pokémon Trading Card Game Mega Evolution Trail. Team up as a family to search the woodland for each Mega Evolution Pokémon discover their powers and complete your own…
Sizergh, Kendal
The Abbey, Carlisle
Step into the radiant world of Carlisle Cathedral's stained glass with our brand‑new tour, Sacred Light: The Stained Glass of Carlisle Cathedral.
Launched in celebration of our East Window being voted the nation's favourite cathedral window by the…
Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle
The Racecourse, Cartmel
For an unforgettable fun-filled day out, Cartmel Races is hard to beat. Perfect for family, friends and celebrations, the combination of thrilling jump racing and a relaxed party atmosphere brings thousands of people back year after year. Join us…
Cartmel Racecourse, Cartmel
Millom
young farmers competition/ rally day
Penrith
Acorn Bank can be found at Temple Sowerby, just a few miles east of Penrith and situated between the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the North Pennines Area of Natural Beauty. It is within reach of Leeds, Middlesbrough,…
Acorn Bank, Penrith
Castle Green Lane, Kendal
Be sure to bring your appetite, round up the family, and make a day of it and we'll do our best to arrange the sunshine ☀️
12:00 - 16:00 BBQ, Sunday Lunch & Pizza, outdoor games
16:00 - 21:00 Normal menu available
BBQ Menu
Double cheese burger…
Inspiration
WE ARE BACK!! After the amazing success of last year we are back bringing you South Lakes Live…
Seven artists explore shared landscapes, material connections, and personal perspectives on land,…
Beneath the ancient skyline of Carlisle, hidden stories linger in every red-brick shadow and echo…
Get in harmony with your deeper nature — join us at Abbot Hall on 16th May, 2-4pm to learn songs…
Discover the art of craft distilling in the Gateway to the Lake District, with a guided tour of…
Join us on a exclusive guided tour of Hill Top Farm, Near Sawrey renowned as the first farm owned…
The Hallé Conductor: Ariane Matiakh Piano: Alexander Gadjiev Dvořák: The Water Goblin Chopin:…
Experience a rejuvenating blend of mindful movement and delicious seasonal fare at Yoga & Brunch at…
Discover two striking new collections of original artworks that celebrate the creative potential of…
We're talking The Inbetweeners and more at this very special evening with actor/comedian Joe…
Jordan Jackson is a critically acclaimed singer, pianist, and composer known for her poetic,…
Join us for Wild Swim Club! Experience the incredible benefits of this exhilarating activity as our…
Follow the grieving Harley family as they attempt to save their failing rural pub and community by…
Hutton-in-the-Forest is a beautiful historic house and garden, situated on the northern edge of the…
Join our brand new Poetry Club featuring David Viney! A multiple poetry slam winner, workshop…
Useful/Beautiful marks 25 years of contemporary craft at Blackwell – the Arts & Crafts house,…
The Dock Museum are proud to bring you the latest exhibition from John Duffin, "Look North" The…
Cine-Social is a once-a-month evening for film-lovers to get together. Each month, three films are…
Orwell Prize-winning author, BAFTA and RTS-winning documentary maker, and former BBC Reith Lecturer…
The Flower Club at Cumberland Flower Farm is back! After a long break, we're relaunching our…
Visit our Farm for this totally bespoke and fun farmer experience tailored especially for children.…
SWSC will be holding an open day with taster sails on Saturday, 16 May, 10am to 3pm. This is part…
To coincide with Bluebird K7 – The Festival between 11-15 May, Ullswater 'Steamers' will be…
Get ready to "Let It Go" all over again — live on stage! Kendal College's exceptionally talented…


We’re having a party - come and join us.
Running an event?
Are you organising an event and would like to advertise it on the What's On section of Visit Lake District? Let us know! We welcome any new event submissions throughout the year.
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL