What's on in Cornwall this summer: 2026 festivals, live music and foodie events

Your guide to events worth planning for...

The arrival of spring invites fresh inspiration and the promise of memorable moments ahead. With that in mind, we've curated a selection of Cornwall's most exceptional summer events for 2026. From independent food festivals to family-friendly concerts by the sea, allow us to guide your plans with our thoughtfully crafted summer diary.

April 

Silo Sessions
When: From March to December
Where: Golant, near Fowey

Silo sessions return to Bar Silo every weekend from March through to the end of the year, bringing a vibrant calendar of ticketed events to the farm. Expect unforgettable evenings filled with live music from talented local bands and artists setting the tone of the evening. 

This intimate venue is beautifully lit with fairy lights and framed by rustic hay bales, creating a truly unique atmosphere. Behind the bar, you'll find an impressive selection of craft beers, local ales, and a carefully curated cocktail menu featuring delicious Cornish-inspired creations. Be sure to keep an eye out on their socials for the latest weekly line-ups and events. 

© Georgie Tombs for Bar Silo

Rattler Fest 
When: 24th - 25th April
Where: Healy’s Cyder Farm, Penhallow
Nearby property: Kew House
Tickets available here
 
Loved by locals for its vibrant music scene and homegrown cider, Rattler Fest returns this April for its sixth year. Set in the grounds of Healy's Cyder Farm, this adults-only festival promises two days of live music, with celebrity DJs on the lineup. Festival-goers can enjoy a range of activities and competitions, from ski lodge sessions to the famous Mr & Mrs Rattler contest.

As evening falls, sample an array of fruity ciders while a light show illuminates the trees, before heading to the silent disco to round off the night. The 2026 line-up has already been announced, featuring artists including Phil Hartnoll and Tom Meighan. 

Accessibility note: As of this year, Rattler Fest is pleased to collaborate with Nimbus Disability, adopting the Access Card Scheme to enhance accessibility and ensure a refined, supportive experience for all guests.

Porthleven Food Festival
When: 24th - 26th April
Where: Porthleven Harbour
Nearby property: Seathrift and Salt Spay

Set against the picturesque waterfront, Porthleven’s annual festival has long been celebrated as one of Cornwall’s premier foodie events. Hosted in partnership with Jude Kereama of Kota Kai, the programme brings together exceptional culinary demonstrations, artisan food stalls and live music.

Stroll through the harbour streets in search of something delicious before settling in to watch talented local chefs craft their dishes. Spanning three days and free to attend, the festival offers plenty to enjoy, whether you visit for a leisurely afternoon or immerse yourself for the entire day.  

For the full round-up of events, head to their website.

Accessibility notes: The Porthleven Food Festival is dedicated to creating an inclusive and welcoming experience for all visitors. Accessible parking, changing and toilet facilities, medical support, and complimentary assistance tickets for ticketed events are all available. However, due to the natural landscape, variable weather, and historic terrain, some areas of the festival may have limited accessibility.

© Porthleven Food Festival via Instagram

May

Bands in the Sands
When: Throughout May and September
Where: The Watering Hole, Perranporth
Tickets available here

Bands in the Sands, is returning to the beautiful golden shores of Perranporth Beach. Set against a stunning sea-view backdrop, this unique experience invites you to soak up the atmosphere with a refreshing mojito from the Beetlejuice cocktail bar before enjoying an evening of incredible live music and sold-out shows. With this year's major headline acts set to be announced, each performance promises something special at the UK's only beachside music venue. 

Accessibility notes: As the festival terrain requires appropriate wheelchairs for access, they kindly ask guests to come prepared. That said, The Watering Hole team will always be on hand and happy to assist with transportation whenever needed.

The Du Maurier Fowey Festival
When: 1st - 9th May
Where: Fowey
Nearby property: Ria Reach

Each year, the town of Fowey comes alive with creativity as the Du Maurier Fowey Literary festival gathers writers, artists, and curious minds from near and far. More than a celebration of literature, it's a vibrant expression of culture, community and artistic discovery. 

Browse art trails, meet local authors and attend engaging talks, before wandering Fowey's picturesque streets or pausing in the Old Grammar School Garden to take in views across the river. 

Falmouth Food Festival
When: 22nd - 25th May
Where: Falmouth Church street car park
Nearby properties: Cornerways and Seaglass House are located on the opposite side of the river.

Indulge in a long weekend of coastal elegance at Fal Fest, a four-day escape shaped by the rhythm of the coast, the creativity of its people, and the unmistakable spirit of Cornwall. 

Wander between beautifully curated food stalls, where the scent of saffron-rich seafood paella drifts through the air, perfectly paired with a crisp Tarquin's gin and tonic enjoyed under the Cornish sun. Discover exceptional local producers, meet passionate makers, and immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere of live music. 

© Falmouth Food Festival via Instagram

The Great Estate Festival
When: 29th - 31st May 2026
Where: Scorrier House
Nearby properties: Gwelefan
Tickets available here

For those seeking a summer escape to West Cornwall, The Great Estate Festival unfolds within the enchanting grounds of Scorrier House, near Porthtowan. Renowned as an award-winning family festival, this whimsical celebration offers imaginative introduction to live music for all ages. 

Hidden among the gardens, you'll discover a secret gin garden, vibrant circus stages and a tranquil zen den, each inviting moments of exploration and escape. As the sun sets, the estate comes alive with an exciting line-up of headline performers and local talent. The full programme remains under wraps until closer to the event, so follow their goings-on via Instagram to be the first to know. 

June

Tunes in the Dunes 
When: 5th - 7th June
Where: Perranporth Beach
Tickets available here

Set against the sun-drenched shores of Perranporth, Tunes in the Dunes is renowned for its standout three-day line up, and this year is no exception. With acts including Scouting for Girls, The Wombats and Professor Green taking to the stage, the weekend promises an unforgettable soundtrack by the sea. 

Hosted by The Watering Hole, celebrated for its relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, the festival invites you to settle into beachside living at its best. Arrive early, head to the bar for a round of crisp Cornish Pilsner, and ease into the rhythm of live music as it unfolds. 

Accessibility note: The venue is thoughtfully designed with accessibility in mind, offering features such as accessible toilets and a dedicated viewing area for added comfort. Set on soft sand, they recommend the use of suitable all-terrain wheelchairs to ensure ease of movement. Convenient accessible parking is located just behind the Co-op, with attentive staff on hand to help. 

© Tunes in the Dunes via Instagram

Eden Sessions
When: June - July 
Where: Bodelva, near St Austell
Tickets available here

Known as one of the best live music venues in Cornwall, the Eden Sessions are renowned for hosting world-class acts, with most shows taking place throughout June and July. Set against the backdrop of the iconic biomes and botanical gardens, the open-air stage comes alive with an unforgettable light show. 

This year, Wolf Alive, Snow Patrol and Becky Hill have already confirmed, with more acts set to be announced. What's more, entry to Eden is included with all tickets, so arrive early, explore the site at your leisure, and make an occasion of it with dinner in the Biome Kitchen before the music begins. 

Accessibility notes: The Eden Project offers a thoughtfully designed range of accessible features to ensure every visit is seamless and enjoyable. These include accessible parking, step-free routes, sensory support at events with balloons, complimentary tickets for personal assistants, accessible toilet facilities, and the use of wheelchairs, including powered options. All services can be arranged in advance via the Access Eden help desk when booking. 

© Eden photographers for Eden Sessions 

Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival
When: 12th - 14th June
Where: Falmouth

Set across Falmouth's picturesque harbourside, from characterful pubs and historic courtyards to lively quays, this much-celebrated festival draws over 65,000 visitors each year. 

More than 80 sea shanty groups to fill the town with rich harmonies and maritime spirit, creating an atmosphere that's both exhilarating and joyful. Free to attend with a special ticketed Gala concert for a more refined seating experience, the event invites you to dip in and out at your leisure. Between performances, savour the town's exceptional food and drink scene, from craft beers and beautifully balanced cocktails to indulgent street food, and traditional Cornish pasties. For more inspiration, explore our Where to eat in Falmouth, Cornwall blog post, where you'll truly be spoilt for choice with a range of fantastic recommendations. 

July 

Tropical Pressure
When: 12th - 14th July
Where: Porthtowan
Nearby property: Gwelefan
Tickets available here

One of Cornwall's best independent festivals, Tropical Pressure takes place every July, set on a breath-taking clifftop overlooking Porthtowan Beach, celebrating the rich and vibrant cultures of Latin America, Africa and the Caribbean. By day, immerse yourself in incredible live bands from across the globe filling the air with rhythm and soul, as evening falls, world-renowned DJs take over, transforming the site into a dancefloor beneath the open sky. 

Fuelled by exceptional plant-based cuisine and rooted in sustainability, the festival champions being one of the greenest, most environmentally conscious events of the season. 

Rock Oyster Festival
When: 25th - 29th July
Where: Rock
Nearby property: The Nook
Tickets available here

Set within the beautiful grounds of Dinham House in Rock, this much-loved festival has become a standout in Cornwall's live music calender. At its heart, Rock Oyster Festival celebrates exceptional local artisans and acclaimed chefs, with an enticing programme of cookery masterclasses and feasts unfolding across the weekend. 

In most recent years, the festival has also placed an emphasis on wellbeing, with lots of family-friendly events such as foraging walks, street dance workshops and watersports activities on the schedule. This year, Scissor Sisters are set to get everyone singing and dancing as the Saturday headliner, with Groove Armada and Sam Ryder also taking to the stage. 

© Rock Oyster Festival via Instagram

August 

Boardmasters 
When: 5th - 9th August
Where: Watergate Bay
Nearby property: Red Cove
Tickets available here 

It wouldn't be a true round-up of Cornish festivals without mentioning Boardmasters. What began in the 1980s as a humble surfing competition has grown into one of the UK's most iconic celebrations of music, surf and skate culture. Set dramatically on the cliffs overlooking Watergate Bay, the festival offers a truly unforgettable setting, where world-class live music meets sweeping ocean views. 

By day, you can soak up the laid back coastal atmosphere, watch top surfers, or explore the skate and lifestyle elements. As the sun sets, the headland transforms into an electrifying arena of sound and light. 

Accessibility notes: Boardmasters offers an elevated and inclusive experience using the Nimbus Access Card, unlocking a range of thoughtfully curated accessibility features. These include accessible parking and camping facilities, a complimentary essential companion ticket, radar key-accessible toilets, wheelchair friendly showers and amenities, as well as dedicated sensory calm spaces. Additional provisions are in place to ensure every guest can enjoy the festival in comfort and style. 

© Boardmasters via Instagram

Tunes in the Park
When: 27th - 30th August
Where: Port Eliot Estate 
Tickets available here

Set within the beautiful and enchanting grounds of the Port Eliot Estate, this vibrant festival brings a weekend of unique live music and immersive experiences. From laughter-filled evenings in the comedy tent to restorative morning wellness sessions, each day unfolds with something new. 

As night falls, internationally sought-after artists take to the stage, carrying the energy through late-night dancing. With a family-friendly atmosphere and a thoughtfully curated line-up, embrace the creativity and character whether for a day or the full weekend. 

© Georgie Tombs for Tunes in the Park

September

Little Orchard Cider and Music Festival 
When: 11th - 13th September
Where: Healy’s Cyder Farm, Penhallow
Tickets available here

Welcome to the charming, family-friendly Cornish celebration, Little Orchard Cider and Music Festival, set in the stunning grounds of Healey's Cyder Farm. Soak up the summer sunshine with a weekend of live music and delicious food from across the South West. What's more, all bars are stocked with the farm's apple cider and juices - the perfect Cornish tipple for a truly unforgettable weekend. 

Port Isaac Shanty Festival
When: 3rd - 4th October
Where: Port Isaac
Nearby property: Gwel Arvor

Nothing captures the spirit of Cornwall quite like a Shanty Festival, and there's no setting more fitting that Port Isaac. Home to the renowned Fisherman's Friends, this charming harbour village is steeped in a rich tradition of sea shanties and local musicians. 

With performances taking place across the village from morning through the evening, it's a delight to wander between venues, soaking up the atmosphere as you go. Best of all, it's a free event, so join the crowds, raise a pint of Cornish ale, and sing along to Drunken Sailor as the harbour comes alive with music. 

© Port Isaac Shaty Festival via Instagram 

Discover a Cornwall escape this summer

Whether you're seeking a refined escape to Cornwall for a week of exceptional live music, indulgent culinary experiences, or simply a moment of complete relaxation, our curated collection of exquisite homes offer the perfect retreat. From striking waterfront properties along the west coast to sophisticated beach houses set against the north, discover Cornwall at its most enchanting. 

Photo credits: Porthleven Food Festival, Falmouth food festival, Tunes in the Dunes, Rock Oyster, Boardmasters, Port Isaac Shanty Festival, via Instagram | Tunes in the Park, Bar Silo - Georgie Tombs | Eden Sessions - Eden photographers | All other images are our own.