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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.
Inspiration
Hosted by Shed One's owners and distillers, Andy & Zoe. Enjoy a welcome tipple followed by a tour…
Annual carnival parade Then a presentation on the harbour event space with music
A firm favourite, it's the return of our fish and chip supper evening cruise, featuring musical…
Join us on a exclusive guided tour of Hill Top Farm, Near Sawrey renowned as the first farm owned…
Among the glittering salons of the super-rich, patriarchy equals power, reputation is everything –…
Cine-Social is a once-a-month evening for film-lovers to get together. Each month, three films are…
Discover the tales of Townend on our daily 45-minute guided tour at 3pm. Led by knowledgeable…
After the side-splitting success of last year's festival, we're thrilled to announce that West…
Discover the history of the Wray estate on a 45‑minute Walk & Talk led by a knowledgeable member of…
Visit Cartmel Racecourse for our exciting 9 days of racing this 2026 season.
Busy Weekly Market with 80 stalls. Food, Crafts and Gifts.
Our popular Introduction to outdoor swimming course takes place at either Rydal Water or Waterhead,…
11.30am-5pm | 18+ yrs Join Helen Clues, Mosaic artist, to create beautiful mosaic pieces using…
Discover documentary photographer Joanne Coates's powerful exhibition about women in agriculture in…
Seven artists explore shared landscapes, material connections, and personal perspectives on land,…
Venture into the fateful night that inspired one of the world's greatest gothic tales: Mary…
An evening yoga practice on the beautiful lawns at Lowther Castle. These sessions are accessible;…
Join us for Wild Swim Club! Experience the incredible benefits of this exhilarating activity as our…
One family, one condition, one hell of a hairy baby… Scott Bennett from Live at the Apollo, The…
Make memories, not just snapshots with a private photography experience in the Lake District…
Discover the art of craft distilling in the Gateway to the Lake District, with a guided tour of…
One of our Summer Series events, escape to the Mediterranean for a night of music, food and…
Cumbria Tourism Best Experience Winner: 2022 & 2025 Create your own distilled gin or vodka in…
Our thoughtfully curated three day retreat combines yoga, mindful movement, outdoor experiences and…


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