As if stunning sea views, beautiful beaches, lovely walks and unique little shops aren’t enough, Sidmouth is fast becoming known for its many festivals that take place throughout the year. 2023 looks to be no exception and offers an exciting choice of events for locals and visitors alike.
Early Spring
In early Spring, the Valley of a Million Bulbs is an annual event where the whole community comes together to plant a million daffodil bulbs throughout the town. Back in 2007 following diagnosis for a terminal illness, businessman, Keith Owen, bequeathed his live savings of £2m into the care of the Sid Vale Association and The Keith Owen Fund was created to support local projects using voluntary labour. Each year, Sidmouth hosts a golden blanket of daffodils that lights up the town.
Sidmouth Jazz Festival
Following the success of Sidmouth’s first International Jazz & Blues Festival in 2022, plans are underway for its return in 2023. The next festival is earmarked for Thursday 25 to Monday 29 May and encompasses the end of May bank holiday. The sidmouthjazz.com website has more details and also gives visitors the opportunity to sign up for updates.
Sidmouth Literary Festival
Established in Summer 2015, the Sidmouth Literary festival was the brainchild of Wayne Winstone, owner of Winstone’s Books, Di Bowerman and Jane Corry and many others. With the support of the local community it has grown and continues to bring the world of literature to Sidmouth. The first event of 2023 is on Sunday 12 March at Kennaway House, entitled: ‘How to get published’ day!
Sidmouth Folk Festival
Probably Sidmouth’s most famous festival and a major cultural institution that attracts thousands of visitors each year to the town. Established in 1955, the 68th Sidmouth Folk Festival will be held 4th to 11th August in 2023. Check the amazing line up… so far!
Sidmouth Walking Festival
The Sidmouth & East Devon Walking Festival runs each September for one week, Saturday to Friday. Sidmouth has some wonderful scenic coastal and inland walks. The town enjoys ‘Walkers are Welcome’ status and the 5 linear walks will cover the whole of the East Devon Way. Shorter circular walks will allow you to sample parts of the East Devon Way. Details for the coming 2023 season will be published here.
Sidmouth Science Festival
Sidmouth Science Festival started as a weekend event in 2012 and has now grown to a 10 day event that takes place in October. Aimed at all ages, many of the events are FREE. Organizers are now planning the 2023 Festival programme for the dates: 7 -15 October 2023.
