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Whatever time of year you want to visit the Lake District, Cumbria, we have something planned to keep you entertained, engaged, and energised. From country fairs and garden parties to beer festivals and agricultural shows, this is very much #ThePlaceToBe – at all times of the year. Whether you are looking for what's on in the Lake District, or what's on in Cumbria, we have you covered with the best list of events taking place.
This November, check out the Cumbria Dark Skies Festival taking place.
We Cumbrians love to celebrate things – food, music, literature, culture, the great outdoors – and nothing delights us more than sharing the wealth of our heritage and landscape with visitors from all over the world.
The county comes alive to the sound of music – and we mean all kinds of music, from classical to alt rock. We’ve got festivals aplenty, from folk weekends centred on a brewery to a music festival that also includes outdoor activities – hardly surprising given that the Lake District, Cumbria is known for its natural beauty. Walking festivals, fell runs, competitive bike races, orienteering and challenge events… whatever way you like to tackle or enjoy nature, we’ve got something for you.
When you’re done exerting yourself, you’ll be looking for something to eat - and in Cumbria, we know how to celebrate our remarkable food heritage! There are markets and foodie events all over the county spread throughout the year, from a celebration of marmalade to a chili eating competition. Taste Cumbria hosts a series of great festivals between April and October with lots of food stalls and cooking demos.
And don’t forget beer. We’re big fans of it in Cumbria – we like to brew it, drink it and celebrate its very existence with over a dozen brilliant festivals throughout the year. Discover big events spread over a couple of days that draw in crowds from all over England, and smaller events in cosy pubs deep in the heart of rural Cumbria.
Christmas markets, Easter fairs and seasonal celebrations are huge in the county, too. From agricultural shows to festive fun, we’ve got you covered. How about stepping back in time at the Ulverston Dickensian Festival? Check out our Lake District, Cumbria blog for bags of inspiring articles on places to visit and things to see.
We’re having a party. Come and join us.
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The Abbey, Carlisle
Come and experience Carlisle Cathedral's first ever Christmas Tree Festival, with 30 trees on display across the Cathedral and Undercroft.
Take time out of the hustle and bustle of the season to explore the trees, which will be decorated to…
Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle
Nr. Hutton-in-the -Forest, Penrith
We will hold you spellbound as we tell you a tale based on one of the 101 Arabian Night Stories, told by Scheherazade to her husband, the Sultan. Meet the Genie of the Lamp, watch Aladdin fly his magic carpet and see if Aladdin finally wins the hand…
Glenridding
Join a jolly gathering to sing carols on Helvellyn this Christmas! Bring your instruments and singing voices with you
To be added to our email list for weather updates, email:nicola@hikinghighs.co.uk
We will decide by 8pm on Saturday 21st…
W Strand, Whitehaven
Join us at The Beacon Museum for a festive weekend, full of holiday cheer, perfect for the whole family – from following the trail of mischievous elves, to getting involved in festive experiments, there really is something for everyone.
The perfect…
The Beacon Museum, Whitehaven
Cark, Grange-over-Sands
Father Christmas returns to Holker Hall this December!
Meet Father Christmas and the Elves at Holker Hall and discover the magic of Christmas. Receive a gift from Father Christmas by the roaring fire in the magical setting of Holker's grand library…
Holker Hall and Gardens, Grange-over-Sands
Church St, Ambleside
Join Clara at a delightful Christmas Eve party that becomes a magical adventure once everyone else is tucked up in bed. Marvel at the brilliance of Tchaikovsky's score, as Clara and her enchanted Nutcracker fight the Mouse King and visit the Sugar…
Whitehaven
Choreography: Peter Wright after Lev Ivanov | Music: Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky
Discover the enchantment of ballet with this sparkling festive treat for the whole family. Julia Trevelyan Oman's period designs bring festive charm to Peter Wright's…
Bowness on Windermere
This show runs from Friday 20 – Tuesday 24 December.
Friday 20 Dec: 1pm & 4pm | Saturday 21 Dec: 11am, 2pm & 4pm | Sunday 22 Dec: 11am, 2pm & 4pm | Monday 23 Dec: 11am & 2pm | Tuesday 24 Dec: 10am
It really is the most wonderful time of the year,…
Kendal
The Man Who Wanted to be a Penguin | 14, 21 & 22 Dec, Starts 1pm & 5pm, Tickets £14 | 23 & 24 Dec, Starts 11am & 3pm, Tickets £16 | Recommended Age 3+
The Man Who Wanted to be a Penguin's main character is an enthusiastic, energetic and curious man…
Keswick
Christmas Day Lunch at the Salutation Inn from 12-3pm. £60 per person for 3 courses
Christmas Day Evening Buffet from 6-8pm £35 per person
New Years Eve Celebrations with music and a casino! Booking essential - special dinner menu from 5-8pm
Braithwaite, Keswick
Ever wondered how Santa navigates the skies on Christmas Eve? Join Jo from JAG Outdoors for a guided walk around the forest and look for the stars that help Santa find his way!
The walk will cover 3-4 miles of trails, and weather permitting, there…
Whinlatter Forest, Keswick
Conishead Priory, Ulverston
Christmas Course - The Gift of Peace and Relaxation
During this Christmas Course in the beautiful relaxing environment of the Temple for World Peace and grounds, you will receive teachings on love, compassion and wisdom, and be guided in…
Inspiration
Experience the magic of the season with Festive Afternoon Teas at Muncaster Castle, hosted in the…
This year we will celebrating Christmas at Levens Hall by opening the House and part of the Topiary…
A high-flying adventure for all the family… Raised in the Indian jungle, Mowgli the man cub spends…
Weekly Market each Wednesday. Good range of fresh produce, gifts and household essentials.
Ever wondered how Santa navigates the skies on Christmas Eve? Join Jo from JAG Outdoors for a…
Our popular 'Father Christmas on the Farm' event is back in 2024! BOOK TICKETS NOW Team Walby is…
Busy Weekly Market with 80 stalls. Food, Crafts and Gifts.
26th December 12pm-2.30pm £35 for 3-courses Indulge in the ultimate post-Christmas tradition with…
Discover the Ecology Gallery, a space dedicated to exploring the stories of our local landscape,…
Celebrate Christmas at Levens Hall this December. Levens Hall are celebrating the festive season…
The Swan's Santa's Grotto, a festive wonderland awaits your little ones! Every weekend from…
Christmas Day Lunch at the Salutation Inn from 12-3pm. £60 per person for 3 courses Christmas Day…
Christmas Course - The Gift of Peace and Relaxation During this Christmas Course in the beautiful…
Enjoy the delightful flavours of Christmas with our festive-inspired Afternoon Tea. Indulge in…
We are pleased to announce that our new Shipyard Town gallery is fully open. We are honoured to…
Series of matinee piano recitals showcasing talented concert pianists in the exquisite venue of…
From Friday 6 December to Sunday 23 February 2024 is the centenary of Mallory and Irvine's…
Join us at The Beacon Museum for a festive weekend, full of holiday cheer, perfect for the whole…
Enjoy Christmas Day lunch at The Salutation, between 12 noon and 3pm. Booking essential.
The Man Who Wanted to be a Penguin | 14, 21 & 22 Dec, Starts 1pm & 5pm, Tickets £14 | 23 & 24 Dec,…
We are delighted to announce in light of the main auditorium being closed that we will be turning…
Step into a world of festive creativity and holiday cheer this December as Blackwell hosts its…
A very Merry Muncaster Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at Muncaster Castle this Christmas…
Local people enjoying their retirement in The Lake District can get some amazing discounts at…
We’re having a party - come and join us.
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