Headline 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.

In May, the Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival will be held, featuring the Plymouth Half, Plymouth 10k, and 5k races, as well as the Primary School's Challenge. This event draws more than 30,000 spectators and athletes to the iconic Hoe Promenade, creating a vibrant celebration of a healthy and active Plymouth.

This is followed by the hugely successful and award-winning Pirates Weekend, located on the Barbican and Sutton Harbour, hosting a weekend of pirate-themed fun which is very popular with families and children.

The ever-growing Flavour Fest comes shortly after and showcases local cookery talent as well as some of the region's best food producers. It's the largest free food and drink festival in the South West and takes place in late May or early June each year.

Plymouth’s Armed Forces Day typically sees around 50,000 people flock to Plymouth Hoe to enjoy a range of exciting entertainment, activities and shows by working in partnership with all of the Armed Forces in the city. It is the culmination of the Armed Forces Week, which also includes the Flag Raising Ceremony and Strength of Spirit Games Rehabilitation Triathlon where service personnel on recovery duties and veterans compete in the swim, bike and row events.

New for June and July 2025 is the Wimbledon on the Big Screen in the city centre, where a state-of-the-art pop-up screen will host the Wimbledon Championships along with delicious food and drink, and the opportunity to try one of the UK’s fastest growing sports, Padel, all on the Piazza.

Another beloved event is the British Firework Championships, held in August, 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 with Plymouth’s stunning waterfront providing a natural ampitheatre for the show. 

The West End Carnival is held late August, and offers a full day of carnival flair to Plymouth city centre and West End.

Moving into September, Seafest Plymouth arrives, bringing the Barbican, Sutton Harbour and waterfront 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.

Remember, remember, the fifth of November, as Bonfire Night returns to Plymouth Hoe with a special bonfire and fireworks display. 

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 festive 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!