Bideford's Annual Event Calendar

Events & Festivals in Bideford that happen every year

Diaries out...the town hosts an annual calendar of events that happen every year and are not to be missed! This fantastic lineup of annual events includes sports to music, shopping to charity fundraisers, coordinated by our fabulous Bideford community. 

Check out some of the highlights below listed by type and then ordered by date:

Bideford’s Free Community Events :  Highlights:

You are invited to come along to these 'whole' town events. All these events are free for spectators. Giving back to the community is a core part of Bideford's identity, and there are plenty of events organised annually that are designed to raise funds for worthy causes. Many of these events are nothing short of 'bonkers' and truly unique to beautiful Bideford.

• Bideford's Summer Fair & Mayor's Parade: (June 7th) This event is a family fun day showcasing lots of what is on offer in Bideford as well as entertainment from circus skills, to a dog show - choir and dance performances - and lots more!
• Bideford Soapbox Derby : This quirky, free-to-watch event is a family favourite, held on The High Street and The Quay in aid of local charities.
• Bideford Water Festival & Cardboard Regatta: Yes really this is Cardboard Boats racing in the Torridge! It is a fabulous free-to-watch community event 
• SSFresh Spring Lottery Open Day The Quay Bideford
• North Devon Festival of Transport : North Devon's Major vehicle show Includes Classic, vintage, and special sports cars and much more held in Bideford's Victoria Park
• Bideford Pride NEW for 2024! at Victoria Park Bideford 
• Ride the Rapids NEW for 2024! on The Quay Bideford
•  North Devon Mini Grand Tour (Bank Holiday Monday 26 August) The infamous Mini's visit Bideford Victoria Park and drive along the Quay
• Stepping Out Festival Mill Street, Jubilee Square and Victoria Park
• Bideford eat: festival  (April, 2025 TBC): A food lover’s paradise on The Quay featuring local and regional producers.
• Torridge Arts & Crafts Easter Market (April, 2025 TBC): Discover handmade goods and artisan creations at Bideford Pannier Market.
• Continental Food Market  (May, 2025 TBC): Taste the world without leaving The Quay as international vendors bring their culinary delights.
• Annual Chudleigh Picnic (September 7th) at Chudleigh Fort East Water
• ShamFest Beer Festival: (Date TBC) Head to Pollyfield Centre East The Water and raise a glass while supporting good causes.
• Bideford Carnival and Massed Pipes and Drums  (September 13): A grand parade through town, with proceeds often going to local charities.
• Bideford Christmas Light Switch-on: December, 7)
• Bideford's Victorian Christmas Frost Fair : (December, TBC): Step back in time with this charming Christmas market featuring Victorian-themed stalls, food and entertainment.
• Bideford Christmas Toy Run (November, TBC): Motorcyclists from near and far come together for this festive ride, delivering toys to children in need. An event Coordinated by Bideford Bike Club.

Sporting Events 

Bideford is home to a variety of sporting events that draw participants and spectators alike. From marathons to regattas, these activities offer plenty of ways to stay active or simply cheer from the sidelines.

• Bideford Half Marathon (Sunday March 9): Starting on The Pill, this popular event attracts runners from across the region.
• Bideford Triathlon (September 2025 Date TBC): Swim, cycle, and run through the scenic surroundings of The Quay.
• Bideford Rowing Regatta  (Saturday June 21): Rowing enthusiasts will flock to The Quay to watch this beloved race.
• Bideford 10K Run and Bideford 10 Miler Runs (Sunday May 25 & November 2025 TBC): Whether you prefer a summer or autumn run, these events are highlights for local and visiting runners alike.
• Bideford Celebrity Charity Football Match (July, 2025 TBC): Football fans won’t want to miss this special charity game at Bideford Football Ground.
• TBC - Tour of Torridge at Victoria Park Bideford

Bideford’s Music Events

Music lovers are spoiled for choice with a variety of live performances throughout the year from venues within the town. The annual calendar includes family fun festivals to local talent shows, Bideford's music scene is always buzzing. Some events are free, others are paid for festivals:

• Bideford Music Days (August 2-3): Head to Victoria Park for two days of fantastic live performances.
• Bideford's Here for the Music Festival (June 6-8): Hosted at The Big Sheep, this music festival is perfect for those looking to experience live bands in a fun and family-friendly setting.
• Bideford's Got Talent (July, TBC): Showcasing the best local talent, this event at Bideford Pannier Market is sure to impress.
• There for the Music (September, TBC): A lively night of music at The Palladium Club.
• Bideford Town Band Annual Christmas Concert (December, TBC): A festive tradition that gets everyone into the holiday spirit.
• Pigstock Festival (May 2025 TBC) Music Event at The Big Sheep

Bideford’s Other Paid for Events

Giving back to the community is a core part of Bideford's identity, and there are plenty of events designed to raise funds for worthy causes.

• David Rowlands FunFair (March 22-28)
• Bideford's Rock the Torridge Charity Cruise (May 16): Set sail on the MS Oldenburg and enjoy a fun evening, all for charity.
• Bideford gets a visit from Ben de Vey Fun Fair (July 09 -31) at Victoria Park
• Bideford Town Band Annual Christmas Concert at Bideford Pannier Market

 Please check the specific event web page for further details and event updates. For all other events, please search the events page

See Bideford's annual event calendar by Season: