Discover what's on in the Lake District and Cumbria

Events in and around the Lake District

What's on in Windermere and the Lake District?

Whatever time of year you decide to visit the Lake District in Cumbria, you’ll find a variety of exciting events that can enhance your holiday experience, from summer parties to Christmas markets.

Support local traders and pop along to the Glebe Markets In Bowness-on-Windermere, participate in a charity run or competitive bike race, or immerse yourself in the local arts and crafts scene and join a workshop at Blackwell.

There are plenty of music events that will have you singing and dancing, markets and shows that showcase our exceptional food and drink, and festivals that celebrate the landscape and outdoor adventures.

Discover big events that draw in crowds from all over the UK, as well as smaller events that focus on community spirit.

Whatever you are looking for in the Lake District, you’ll find something for the whole family, dogs too!

Please check with the event organisers before attending to ensure the event is still taking place.

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March 19th - 22nd , 2026

Keswick Film Festival

Keswick Film Festival returns for its 26th edition, bringing over 30 international and independent films to the Lake District. Run by volunteers, the festival is renowned for its friendly atmosphere and high-quality programming.

March 26th - April 18th, 2026

Lark Rise to Candleford

Lark Rise to Candleford is a new stage adaptation at Theatre by the Lake. It follows young Laura’s coming-of-age journey from a rural hamlet to the town of Candleford, featuring a live ensemble and original folk music.

April 11th, 2026

Damson Day

Damson Day is a country fair celebrating the Lyth Valley damson. Held at the Westmorland County Showground, it features artisan food and drink, local crafts, live music, and family entertainment.

May 15th - 17th, 2026

Keswick Mountain Festival

A three-day outdoor festival in Crow Park featuring competitive trail runs, swims, triathlons, and hikes. The event includes a lakeside music stage, guest speakers, and an expo village with outdoor brands and local food.

May 29th - 31st, 2026 

Lake District Running Festival

The Lake District Running Festival in Grasmere features the Grasmere Gallop (5.7k to Marathon) and the OMM Lite navigation challenge. The weekend includes kids' races, Nordic walking and live music.

May 30th & 31st

Country Fest

Country Fest is an annual two-day family event held at the Westmorland County Showground that celebrates British rural life. Key features include: Entertainment, Food & Shopping, Competitions and Family Fun.

June 12-14th, 2026

The Lake District Book Festival

Bringing the world to the Lakes and the Lakes to the world! The Lake District Book Festival is a major new literary event set to debut in June 2026 in South Cumbria. A celebration of the written and spoken word.

June 12th - 14th, 2026

Kendal Pride

Kendal Pride is an annual LGBTQIA+ festival, often described by its organizers as "Pride done differently." The event distinguishes itself by focusing heavily on the intersection of queer identity, the arts, and the great outdoors.

July 31st - August 9th, 2026

Lake District Music Summer Festival

The Summer Festival features 10 days of world-class classical and jazz in unique venues. The program includes an Emerging Musicians showcase, family-friendly events, and public masterclasses with world-renowned artists.

August 30th, 2026

Grasmere Sports

The Grasmere Lakeland Sports and Show is a historic Cumbrian tradition featuring Cumberland & Westmorland wrestling, fell racing, and hound trailing. The event also includes live music, a dog show, and family-friendly activities

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Levens Hall

Levens Hall, known for its historic house and renowned topiary gardens, hosts a variety of events throughout the year, appealing to diverse interests.

Grizedale Forest, LA22 oQJ

Grizedale Observatory & Planetarium

Immerse yourself in stargazing at Grizedale Forest, Lake District. Stargaze and experience the dark sky yourself at an observatory event or take a guided journey of discovery in the state-of-the-art planetarium.

122A Highgate, Kendal LA9 4HE

Brewery Arts Centre

Brewery Arts in Kendal offers a diverse program of events, including cinema, live music, comedy, and theatre. It also hosts festivals like the Kendal Mountain Festival and features a restaurant and bar. (Image: Cumbria Tourism)

 

Every Saturday | 9am -10am

Parkrun at Fell Foot

Fell Foot hosts Parkrun every Saturday morning. Enjoy the 5km route set against a beautiful backdrop. The great bunch of volunteers will be cheering you on.

July 2nd - 3rd, 2027

Tour de France 2027 – Cumbria Stages

Cumbria will take centre stage in cycling history as the 2027 Men’s Tour de France comes to the region, with Stage One finishing in Carlisle and Stage Two starting in Keswick.

Bowness-on-Windermere (top image), Mountain Festival, Running Festival, Music Festival, Levens Hall and Brewery Arts Centre images kindly provided by visitlakedistrict.com.

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