Major Events

Plymouth has one of the best event programmes in the country, with year round fun and something to suit everyone! Each year sees new and returning events set to attract even more visitors to the city and waterfront.

Regular yearly events include the hugely successful and award-winning Pirates Weekend Plymouth, located on the Barbican and Sutton Harbour in May, hosting a weekend of pirate-themed fun which is very popular with families and children.

May also sees the announcement of the new Plymouth Lord Mayor and the traditional welcome is given during the Lord Mayor’s Day, with themed entertainment for all the family in the city centre.

The ever growing Flavour Fest has now been running for 16 years. The event which showcases local cookery talent as well as local food produce takes place in June.

Plymouth’s Armed Forces Day has over 50,000 people attending the event on the Plymouth Hoe. This event brings together a range of exciting entertainment, activities and shows by working in partnership with all of the Armed Forces in the city. 

An event very well-known in August is British Firework Championships, where six of the top pyrotechnic companies compete to be crowned the champion over two nights. Visitors from all over the world come to see these amazing displays take off over Plymouth’s fantastic waterfront.

The Ocean City Blues N Jazz Festival brings a party to the Barbican where thousands of people can enjoy a fully packed stage programme across the three days.

Moving into September, arrives the Plymouth Seafood and Harbour Festival, bringing The Barbican and Sutton Harbour alive with entertainment, activities and dishes to celebrate the city’s fantastic caught seafood. You can enjoy an array of traders and a full chef stage programme providing demonstrations on how to whip up a storm in the kitchen.

Bonfire Night, held on the 5 November annually, hosts a magnificant bonfire and firework display for all to enjoy on those cold wintery evenings. Fairground rides, catering and entertainment are provided at the event.

On the approach to Christmas, the city comes alive with entertainment, markets and competitions. Plymouth embraces this magical season and provides many activities for some Christmasy family fun.

There are many smaller events held within the city throughout the year, be sure to check out the event listings below to see what's coming up!

And don't forget, you can submit your events to the website to be included in our listings!