If your annual summer holiday takes you to the North Devon coast there’s great news! Beach festivals, regattas, county shows, and more are happening from June to September so there’s loads to keep the whole family dosed up on fun throughout the sunshine months.

GoldCoast Oceanfest

Once again Croyde Bay plays host to the hugely popular GoldCoast Oceanfest which this year, celebrates its 25th anniversary. Chill out on the beach by day, then dance the night away to your favourite tunes. The festival brings together live music, surf competitions, beach volleyball, and community —all with a stunning seaside backdrop.

Date: Around the third Friday and Saturday in June
Time: 12 PM–11 PM (Fri & Sat), 12 PM–9 PM (Sun)

North Devon Marathon

Ready for a challenge with epic views? The North Devon Marathon (supporting North Devon Hospice) is back for its 17th year and it’s as wild and wonderful as ever. Starting in Woolacombe, this event takes runners through a mix of clifftops, beaches, trails, and roads—all part of the stunning South West Coast Path. Choose to do 10 km, a half, or full marathon—and earn that finish line cream tea!

Date: Usually the last Sunday in June
Time: Start times vary by race

North Devon Show

The North Devon Show is a big day out with a big heart. Set in the gorgeous countryside at Umberleigh Barton Farm, it’s packed with everything rural—from livestock displays and local produce to vintage tractors, crafts, and food stalls. With plenty of parking and loads of space to explore, it’s a family favourite and a great way to support local farming and businesses.

Date: The first Wednesday in August
Time: Typically 8 AM–6 PM (TBC)
Price: Usually from around £15 (Adults) – Check event site

Sea Ilfracombe Maritime Festival

Ahoy, Ilfracombe! The Sea Ilfracombe Festival is back for its 16th year, and it’s bigger than ever. Expect two days of music, food, crafts, and pure seaside magic. With live bands, a Tiki bar, street food, and pirate-themed fun for the kids (thanks to Pirates De Marisco!), there’s no shortage of things to do.

Date: The last weekend in August or the first weekend in September
Time: All-day activities (exact hours TBC)
Price: FREE

Appledore & Instow Regatta

Established in 1885, the Appledore & Instow Regatta is a summer favourite packed with fun and entertainment, from traditional rowing races and gig boat showdowns to crabbing contests and the legendary greasy pole. Explore local stalls, watch sailing displays, and soak up the riverside atmosphere in two of North Devon’s most picturesque villages.

Date: Typically the First or second Sunday in August
Time: Daytime (exact times TBC)
Price: FREE

Braunton Nature Walks

The whole family can reconnect with nature at the Braunton Countryside Centre—a friendly, free community hub led by passionate volunteers. This July and August, the centre will be offering various guided events, like Bee & Bug Hunts, and evening nature walks through the Burrows – a vast and fantastic dune system lying behind Saunton Sands.

Date: Guided nature walks June, July, Aug (Wednesdays)
Time: Varies by event
Price: FREE

Bude Jazz Fest

Beats, blues, swing and ragtime. The Bude Jazz Festival is an absolute joy – elctrifying the whole town with an upbeat atmopshere over a full weekend. Talented artists put on live acts at various pubs, hotels and restaurants while buskers keep the vibe going outside, and a parade invites everyone both young and old to join in with the festivities. Whether you’re a long time jazz fan or a newcomer, it really is another fantastic reason to stay in Bude.

Date: Usually early to mid September

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