What’s on in Cornwall in 2023

Cornwall will captivate you from the moment you arrive – from the dramatic coastal walks to the picturesque harbours. However, did you know that Cornwall is also a buzzing hub of exciting events all year round, hosting music festivals, food festivals and the annual Royal Agricultural Show? We’ve put together some of our favourites – all within easy reach of our beautiful boutique hotel near St Ives.

Porthleven Food Festival

21-23 April 2023

This year's Porthleven Food Festival will return from 21-23 April 2023, bringing with it some of the best chefs and foodies from the region. Porthleven's quaint harbour transforms into a bustling hub of foodie and musical delights showcasing fantastic local produce, soul-quenching music, and breathtaking sea views.

The festival is free to attend and features a wide range of family entertainment and food stalls, offering everything from freshly caught seafood to artisan cheeses and breads. Visitors can sample and purchase a variety of local produce and watch as chefs and food producers demonstrate their skills and share their knowledge.

Spring Feast Nights at Carbis Bay Estate

27th & 29th April 2023

After the huge success of their Winter Feast Night, Carbis Bay Estate is looking forward to welcoming you to their Spring Feast Nights this April.

Celebrating the arrival of a new season with a specially curated 6-course menu, featuring Homemade Elderflower Champagne, New Season Asparagus with Radish and Hen's Egg, Whole Lamb Spit Roast and a Strawberry Meringue Roulade, the menu pays homage to Cornwall's rich food produce. Live music will set the mood for an evening of feasting and being merry under the stars.

Thursday 27th April – Tickets available

Friday 28th April – SOLD OUT

Saturday 29th April – Tickets available

Tickets are £50 per person and include 6 courses with a welcome drink on arrival. Book your table now.

St Ives Food & Drink Festival

12 – 14 May 2023

St Ives’ annual Food & Drink Festival returns 12 – 14 May 2023. The festival takes place on the gorgeous golden sands of Porthminster beach and celebrates the local food and drink culture of the region, with a focus on fresh seafood, locally sourced produce, and artisanal food products. There are also cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, and workshops led by some of the region's top chefs and food producers.

One of the highlights of the St Ives Food and Drink Festival is the "Food Heroes" awards, which recognize individuals and businesses that have made significant contributions to the local food and drink industry. The festival also supports local charities and community groups and is committed to promoting sustainable food practices and reducing waste.

There will be opportunities to taste and buy as well as displays, short talks and cookery demonstrations to whet the appetite. Take a look at the festival website, check out what's on and make sure you put the date in your diary!

Royal Cornwall Agricultural Show

8 - 10 June 2023

One of the biggest events on the Cornish calendar is the Royal Cornwall Agricultural Show, showcasing the best of Cornwall’s farming and agricultural industries. The event brings together farmers, producers, and enthusiasts from across the region to showcase their livestock, produce, and expertise in various competitions and exhibitions.

Visitors can explore exhibits and displays showcasing the latest farming techniques and technologies, as well as traditional crafts and skills such as weaving, pottery, and blacksmithing. It’s the perfect day out for families and visitors, offering the chance to learn about farming and rural life, and to enjoy a range of entertainment and activities.

Falmouth Sea Shanty Festival

16 – 18th June 2023

The Sea Shanty Festival in Falmouth is a unique event that celebrates the rich maritime heritage of Cornwall and the Southwest.

The festival will return this year from 16 – 18 June 2023, with performances taking place at various venues throughout Falmouth and on the large, waterfront outdoor stages. There is also a range of outdoor events, including parades and singalongs, which provide a great opportunity to join in the fun and get involved in the festival spirit. There are also workshops and talks, which provide an opportunity to learn more about the history and significance of sea shanties and other maritime traditions.

Falmouth Tall Ships Regatta 2023

15 – 18 August 2023

For the first time in nine years, Falmouth will once again host the start of the prestigious Tall Ships Race, Magellan Elcano.

The event typically lasts for several days, with a range of activities on offer for visitors. These include the opportunity to take a closer look at the ships themselves, as well as the chance to experience life onboard one of these impressive vessels. There are also parades, races, and various other competitions, which provide an opportunity for the ships to show off their speed and agility.

In addition to the tall ships, the regatta also features a range of entertainment and activities on land, including live music, food and drink stalls, and family-friendly activities. On race day, there will be a spectacular parade of sail around Falmouth Bay.

St Ives September Festival 2023

9 - 23 September 2023

The St Ives September Festival returns for 2023 with a 15-day kaleidoscope of music and arts events across the town. Taking place between 9 and 23 September, this festival brings the pretty seaside town alive with performances, films, open studios, workshops, talks and art galore.

One of the highlights of the festival is the live music, with a range of genres and styles represented, from jazz and blues to rock and pop. There are also theatre productions, comedy shows, and dance performances, which take place in a variety of venues across the town, from traditional theatres to outdoor stages.

Christmas in Cornwall 2023

December 2023

Cornwall is a beautiful destination to visit at any time of year, and Christmas is no exception.

Cornwall has a vibrant theatre scene, and many theatres put on special Christmas productions during the festive season. The Hall for Cornwallin Truro and the Minack Theatre in Penzance are great places to catch a festive show. One of the highlights of Christmas in Cornwall is the many markets that pop up across the county. These markets offer a range of unique gifts, local crafts, and delicious treats, including the famous Cornish pasty. The Truro Christmas Market is particularly popular, with over 80 stalls selling everything from handmade jewellery to festive decorations. For the first two weekends in December, Carbis Bay Estate will also be holding its annual CoastalChristmas Market, raising money for Cornwall Air Ambulance.

The Perfect Place to Relax

Book your holiday to Cornwall early to make sure that you are in town for your chosen event. Take a break in our luxury seaview rooms, and join in the vast spectrum of art, literature, food and music festivals produced right on our doorstep.