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Summer is finally upon us, and Plymouth is bursting with fun events throughout! Get ready for everything from the British Firework Championships and the West End Carnival through to family-friendly adventures, live music festivals, and outdoor activities that make the most of the sunny season.
Big days out
British Firework Championships
Get ready for two explosive nights on the Hoe on 13 & 14 August as the British Firework Championships return to Plymouth. Six previous winners go head-to-head in a champion of champions battle, lighting up the sky with breathtaking displays. Arrive early, grab some fish and chips, and settle in for a spectacular evening on the waterfront.
West End Carnival
Back with a bang, the West End Carnival brings an explosion of colour, music and street theatre to the city centre. Expect live entertainment, food stalls, craft markets and a real festival atmosphere. Taking place on Sunday 23 August, this is the perfect way to spend a day.
Summer in the Scene Dock
From 7 to 30 August, Theatre Royal Plymouth’s Summer in the Scene Dock transforms into the place to be this summer. Running Thursday through Sunday, it’s packed with live music, comedy, theatre, DJ sets, workshops, and roaming performers - all in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
Discover more of what's on in Plymouth here.
Adventures for kids
Imagine that! At The Box
Inspire imaginations this summer with Imagine That! at The Box – a citywide celebration of creativity, art, and performance. Perfect for curious kids and grown-ups alike, there’s a full programme of drop-in activities and workshops to get stuck into.
Bubble & Bop at Pennywell Farm
Head to Pennywell Farm throughout the summer for a day of bubbles, bopping, and brilliant animal encounters with Bubble & Bop. A perfect trip out with the kids, they’ll love making friends with the farm animals while dancing along to music and getting stuck into fun games!
Summer of Play at Saltram
Saltram’s beautiful grounds are perfect for families to explore and enjoy together. This summer, they’re hosting a Summer of Play, which is packed with outdoor adventures, creative trails, and drop-in craft sessions. Summer of Play runs from 19 July to 31 August.
The Quest of King Arthur's Round Table at Buckland Abbey
From 19 July to 31 August, embark on a legendary adventure at Buckland Abbey with The Quest of King Arthur's Round Table. Enjoy activities like jousting, sword fighting, archery, and potion-making in Merlin’s nature kitchen.
Find more things to do over the summer holidays here.
Family-friendly activities
Kents Cavern
Just a short trip away from Plymouth, Kents Cavern is offering an exciting tribal summer experience. Step back in time and see what it was like for four different tribes. Enjoy guided tours, a woodland trail, prehistoric animal hunt, and much more. There is also a survival school throughout the summer which brings ancient survival skills to life with live demonstrations on making arrows, flint tools, and fire.
Yard Sessions
A great experience for the whole family, the Royal William Yard live music Yard Sessions is returning for summer with a stunning new venue. The free events are moving to the Secret Garden, it’s a great spot to spend an evening with the family soaking up the summer atmosphere.
Overplay
Now until 27 July, Overplay, the ultimate inflatable courses is at Central Park. It features huge colourful inflatables which is perfect for kids and big kids alike, not only that but it all takes place under the cover of a giant circus tent so it’s perfect for those rainy days!
Action Area
Take on Action Arena, the UK’s biggest touring obstacle course when it arrives in Plymouth this summer, from 14–17 August! Choose between the Mini Action Arena or go all out with the Action Arena XXL — both packed with giant inflatable challenges for all ages.
Discover more family-friendly activities to do in Plymouth here.
Things to do for adults
The Armchair Adventure Festival
Held at Mount Edgcumbe Country Park, the Armchair Adventure Festival features talks from world-leading adventurers, adventure activities, and live music! Taking place from 24 to 27 July, there are still tickets available.
Shows at Theatre Royal Plymouth
Theatre Royal Plymouth is bringing a variety of exciting shows this summer. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s award-winning musical Hamilton arrives from 30 July, blending hip-hop and jazz to tell the story of America’s Founding Father. Matthew Bourne’s The Midnight Bell will be on stage from 22 to 26 July, offering a captivating dance-theatre experience set in 1930s London.
Live Music and Festivals
The Big Tribute Festival runs from 31 July to 3 August in Central Park, featuring tribute acts like Rob Lamberti and Oasish. The Sounds of the World Festival celebrates global music, food, and crafts, showcasing Plymouth’s diverse cultural heritage. For free live music, don’t miss the Saturday Sessions at The Square, happening every Saturday afternoon throughout summer.
Explore Local Markets
The Bazaar Monthly Marketplace takes place in Plymouth city centre and offers a mix of goods from local artisans, perfect for unique summer shopping. The Barbican Arts and Crafts Market takes place every Sunday at Pier Master's House, where you can find handmade crafts, art, and local produce. Head over to Royal William Yard for the Good Food & Craft Market, it happens on the first sunday of every month and is a fantastic opportunity to treat yourself to a tasty treat or handmade goods.
Summer Sports Fest
Get active or cheer on competitors at the Summer Sports Fest on 2 August, a lively celebration of sport and fitness happening across Plymouth all summer long. Abseil, swim, golf, and much more!
Find more things to do over the summer in Plymouth here.
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In partnership with GWR, Destination Plymouth’s lead travel partner.
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