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 eat: festival (April 5th) A food lover’s paradise on The Quay featuring local and regional producers.
- Continental Food Market (May 23rd - 25th) Taste the world without leaving The Quay as international vendors bring their culinary delights.
- Bideford Pride (May 31st) at Victoria Park Bideford
- Ride the Rapids (August 31st) on The Quay 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 : (July 6th) 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: (July 20th) Yes really this is Cardboard Boats racing in the Torridge! It is a fabulous free-to-watch community event
- SSFresh Spring Lottery Open Day TBC for 2025 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 TBC for 2025 Mill Street, Jubilee Square and Victoria Park
- Annual Chudleigh Picnic (August 31st) at Chudleigh Fort East Water
- ShamFest Beer Festival: (October 17 & 18 2025 ) 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 : (Date TBC for 2025 December) Step back in time with this charming Christmas market featuring Victorian-themed stalls, food and entertainment.
- Bideford Christmas Toy Run (November, Date TBC for 2025): 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 : (June 15th) Swim, cycle, and run through the scenic surroundings of The Quay.
- Bideford Rowing Regatta (June 21): Rowing enthusiasts will flock to The Quay to watch this beloved race.
- Bideford 10K Run and Bideford 10 Miler Run : (Sunday May 11th & November 2nd) 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.
- Tour of Torridge : (September 28th) 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 16): Head to Victoria Park for two days of fantastic live performances.
- Bideford's Here for the Music Festival : (June 6th - 8th) Hosted at The Big Sheep, this music festival is perfect for those looking to experience live bands in a fun and family-friendly setting.
- There for the Music : (September 20th) A lively night of music at The Palladium Club.
- Bideford Town Band Annual Christmas Concert (December, Date TBC for 2025): A festive tradition that gets everyone into the holiday spirit.
- Pigstock Festival : (May 17th) 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 21st - 27th) in Riverside Carpark
- 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 FunFair (July 09th - 31th) at Victoria Park
- North Devon Festival of Transport : (August 10th) North Devon's Major vehicle show Includes Classic, vintage, and special sports cars and much more held in Bideford's Victoria Park
- Bideford Town Band Annual Christmas Concert at Bideford Pannier Market dates TBC for 2025
Please check the specific event web page for further details and event updates. For all other events, please search the events page
