What’s on in Norfolk: 2026 events, festivals and things to do
October 17, 2025 | Holiday tips | 31 minute read
Norfolk is bursting with things to see and do — from live music and theatre to sporting events, family fun, art, and heritage experiences. We love our county and can’t wait for you to enjoy it too! Pinewoods welcomes guests from mid-March right through to the end of the year, so we’ve handpicked a selection of fantastic 2026 events happening across North Norfolk and the county during that time.
Whether you call Norfolk home, visit every year, or are planning your very first trip, there’s something here to entertain, and that’s before you even get to our sweeping beaches, quaint coastal towns, thriving food scene, and incredible wildlife!
Scroll down to explore our guide to Norfolk’s 2026 highlights, and if you’re dreaming of a stay by the sea, don’t miss our caravan holiday homes, luxury lodges, and touring field in Wells-next-the-Sea.
View events, days out and nights out in Norfolk in:
March – April – May – June – July – August – September – October – November – December
What’s on in Norfolk in March 2026
The first signs of spring begin to arrive — flowers blooming, days stretching out and that extra bounce in our step! Norfolk starts to wake up beautifully this month, and there’s plenty to see and do. Here’s a look at what’s happening across the county this March.
Visit Holkham Hall and Walled Garden
Holkham Hall, the Walled Garden and other estate attractions typically repoen in late March. Be amazed by the state rooms, enjoy the spring blooms in the garden and enjoy a bite to eat in the café too.
What’s on in Norfolk in April 2026
The Easter bank holidays and school holidays make April a popular time to visit. From family days out to spring markets and, there’s lots to look forward to this month. Take a peek at what’s on in Norfolk this April.
Norfolk Antiques Fair
If you love vintage, retro and antiquities, head to Norfolk Showground on 3rd and 4th April 2026
Easter school holidays at Holkham
Plans are still under wraps for Holkham Hall’s easter event for families, but it’s sure to be an eggcellent, fun-filled event! There are usually a range of eggciting activities for little ones, often including storytelling, games, trails and entertainment.
Plan your Easter caravan holiday for your family here.
Burnham Market Horse Trials
The Burnham Market Horse Trials usually take place in mid-April, just a few miles west of Pinewoods. Expect horse racing, trade stands and an exciting day out.
Holkham Spring Market
Holkham’s Spring Market is a highlight in the local fair calendar! With over 50 makers and producers from across the region selling their wares in Lady Elizabeth Wing, it’s a great day out with lots of goodies to browse! Dates are yet to be confirmed.
Creake Abbey Spring Gift Fair
Another much-loved market in nearby Creake Abbey. Dates aren’t released yet but keep an eye on the Creake Abbey website.
What’s on in Norfolk in May 2026
May brings two bank holidays and half term too, and there’s an exciting line-up of events across the county. Which will you add to your May calendar?
Sheringham Viking Festival
On Saturday 11th April 2026, Sheringham’s annual Viking Festival returns! Celebrating Sheringham’s Viking past, you can watch battle reenactments, the burning of a boat and have a unique and entertaining day out.
Folk on the Pier
If you’re into folk music, you need to go to Cromer’s Pavilion Theatre on 8th-10th May 2026 for Folk on the Pier, where some of the UK’s top folk artists will be performing.
Find out more at folkonthepier.co.uk.
City of Ale Festival
The Norwich City of Ale Festival typically takes place in late May to late June, though 2026 dates aren’t yet released. With over 50 pubs across Norwich joining in, if you’re an ale lover, it’s a great time to be in Norfolk. Click here for more details.
Half term at Holkham
May half term sees more family fun at Holkham! Plans are still under wraps, but May 2025 saw outdoor cinema, deer and wildlife safaris and an exciting mystery-solving event for children to enjoy. Whatever is planned, it’ll be sure to be great fun! Visit holkham.co.uk/whats-on to learn more about what’s on in 2026.
Norfolk & Norwich Festival
This cultural celebration of Norfolk and Norwich’s arts scene invites you to enjoy dance, literature, live music, circus and workshops. With pop-up performances taking place across the county, it’s an exciting time to be in Norfolk, with the festival promising to bring “people together to experience the same brilliant and inspirational events.” 2026 dates are not yet released, but it usually takes place throughout most of May.
See what’s on at nnfestival.org.uk/whats-on.
What’s on in Norfolk in June 2026
June brings long, golden evenings and that perfect early-summer calm before the school holidays begin. It’s an idyllic month to stay at Pinewoods and explore the very best of North Norfolk. Take a look at these events you won’t want to miss.
Forest Live: Live music in Thetford Forest
Each June, High Lodge in Thetford Forest becomes a music venue, with fantastic performances helping to fundraise for Forestry England.
Tickets are currently available for:
Saturday 20th June: Snow Patrol
Sunday 21st June: UB40 feat Ali Campbell
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Royal Norfolk Show
With 700 trade stands, 3,000 animals, a huge food and drink offering, live and hundreds of attractions, the Royal Norfolk Show is a highlight in the county’s calendar! It’s taking place on 24th and 25th June in 2026, at the Norfolk Showground near Norwich. Find out more.
Norwich Wine Week
May saw Norwich’s City of Ale Festival, but if you’re more of a wine fan, June is the month for you! Dates aren’t yet released, but it’s usually a ten-day event in mid to late June.
Holkham Garden and Outdoor Living Fair
For the green-fingered amongst us, Holkham’s Spring Garden and Outdoor Living Fair is a fabulous day out – just make sure your car boot is empty so you can fill it with plants, crafts and garden decor! There are talks and tours too. Expect this to take place mid June, and see holkham.co.uk/whats-on for updates.
What’s on in Norfolk in July 2026
Sunshine, summer spirit, sport and so much going on — July in Norfolk is full of energy! From festivals and outdoor theatre to sporting events and seaside celebrations, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a taste of what’s happening this July.
Legends Concerts
Talented tribute bands perform hits from some of the greatest bands at Legends Concerts each July. Last year’s concerts included tributes to Abba, Taylor Swift, Queen, Bon Jovi and more. The 2026 line-up isn’t out yet, nor are the confirmed dates, but this weekend of fun is usually mid-July. See updates here.
Outlaw Triathlon
The Outlaw Half Holkham weekend will take place on 4th-5th July 2026. With a range of physical challenges to choose from, if you’re looking to push yourself in 2026, this is a chance to do so! There’ll be the Outlaw Half triathlon, a Gravel Sprint triathlon, an Aquabike, a 10k and a run for children too. Find out more and enter now.
Camping is available within Holkham Park, but if you’d rather sleep in a real bed, Pinewoods is just down the road!
The Burnhams Flower Show, Fete and Carnival
This event, which has been running for over a century now, is a lovely village show which can be enjoyed by everyone, though only locals can exhibit in the competitions. The Burnhams villages are great for a wander and spot of shopping too, and they’re just down the road from us at Pinewoods! The date is not yet confirmed.
Blakeney Regatta and Greasy Pole!
Head to Blakeney Quay for the annual regatta and enjoy a true taste of North Norfolk. The regatta takes place over a whole weekend (date not yet released), but you might be more interested in the quayside activities and competitions, including the legendary greasy pole challenge, gilly (crab) catching, and sandcastle building!
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Feast in the Park
Another Holkham event, which is great because it’s just a walk, cycle or short drive away! Feast in the Park sees Norfolk’s favourite street food pop-ups head to Holkham. Choose your favourite foods (or sample them all) and enjoy live music with stunning views of the parkland, or combine your munching with a fun day out exploring Holkham park.
Potty Festival
Sheringham’s Potty Festival, which has been running for over 3 decades now, will be taking place on 4th and 5th July 2026, celebrating traditional Morris dancing and folk music. Morris dancing sides (groups) from across the UK head to Sheringham for the weekend, so there’s plenty to keep you entertained! Find out more at pottyfestival.com.
What’s on in Norfolk in August 2026
School holidays, sandy feet and smiles all round! It’s one of the busiest and brightest months in Norfolk, with family fun and summer festivities everywhere you look. Here’s what’s on in Norfolk this August 2026.
Heritage Live
Heritage Live brings world-class performers to the Royal Sandringham Estate, roughly 20 miles from Pinewoods. Enjoy great music in a beautiful location. The 2025 line-up included Stereophonics, Michael Bublé, Blossoms and Jake Bugg. 2026 has not yet been confirmed.
Outdoor Theatre at Holkham
Enjoy the long summer evenings with some alfresco performances! Holkham usually hosts multiple performances during August and we’re looking forward to seeing who will be performing what in 2026.
Wells Carnival
Wells Carnival is a real highlight in the Wells-next-the-Sea calendar, and staying at Pinewoods will mean you’re right here at the heart of it! Taking place from 31st July to 8th August 2026, the carnival, which has been running for over a century, sees an exciting line-up of events for every age, including live music, a fete, family-friendly activities, the crowning of the Carnival King and Queen, and a parade. Find out more at wellscarnival.co.uk and book your accommodation soon!
Classic Ibiza at Blickling
On Saturday 1st August 2026, Stately House Music will be back at Blickling Hall! An open-air stage, a 32-piece orchestra, headline DJs and live singers come together for this celebration of Ibiza-inspired house music. If you enjoy a dance, this is for you!
Run Sandringham 24
Fancy a challenge? Run Sandringham 24 sees participants take on as many laps as they can within a 24 hour period! You can register alone or in a pair or team of up to 12 runners. It commonly takes place in August, but dates aren’t released yet.
Aylsham Show 2026
Taking place on bank holiday Monday 31st August 2026, a day out at the Aylsham Show will include family activities, food trucks, trade stalls and entertainment.
What’s on in Norfolk in September 2026
As the summer holidays wind down, Norfolk settles into a slower rhythm. Here’s what you can enjoy in Norfolk this September 2026.
North Norfolk Food & Drink Festival
This popular event taking place welcomes artisan producers of food and beverages to Holkham’s Walled Garden. With produce stalls, street food pop-ups, a live cookery theatre and more, it’s a fabulous day out for foodies! It’ll take place on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th September 2026. Find out more.
Sheringham and Holt 1940s Weekend
The 1940s weekend is planned for 18th-20th September 2026, with activities in both Sheringham and Holt. This celebration of the 1940s invites you to remember the 40’s music, dances, fashion, vehicles and community spirit. There’ll be window displays, a vehicle display and parade, the ration book competition and plenty of 40s outfits. You can even take the steam train between the towns! Find out more about the weekend here.
Brancaster Staithe Sea Shanty Festival
Usually taking place in mid September, the Brancaster Staithe Sea Shanty Festival celebrates the maritime traditions of the North Norfolk coast, with sea shanties, performances, community and coastal charm in abundance. It takes place across multiple venues in Brancaster, including The Jolly Sailors, The White Horse, Brancaster Staithe Village Hall and St Mary’s Church in Burnham Deepdale.
What’s on in Norfolk in October 2026
Ready for some autumn magic? October in Norfolk brings half term adventures, Halloween fun, and the last chance to visit some of the county’s stately homes before they close for the season. Here’s what’s going on this October.
Primevil
Quite possibly Norfolk’s scariest Halloween event, Primevil – which takes place at Roarr! in Lenwade – will be taking place during the spooky season. It’s for adults and children aged 12+ and promises a haunting Halloween, not for the faint-hearted!
Halloween at Holkham
For younger children, Holkham’s Halloween and October half term offering typically includes stories, crafts, trails and pumpkins! Dates aren’t yet confirmed for Holkham’s event, but the half term in Norfolk will be from Saturday 24th October – Sunday 1st November 2026.
Halloween at Pensthorpe
Over at Pensthorpe near Fakenham, there’ll likely be a fun, family-friendly Halloween day out too, though details haven’t yet been shared!
What’s on in Norfolk in November 2026
The festive countdown starts here! Norfolk begins to sparkle with Christmas lights, markets and seasonal cheer. Check out what’s happening in November to get you into the holiday spirit.
Wells Christmastide
Did you know Father Christmas enjoys a boat ride? That’s how he travels to Wells-next-the-Sea each Christmastide! People gather on the quayside, enjoy the switching on of the lights, entertainment, a procession, Father Christmas’ arrival by boat and a fireworks display too. Dates depend on the tide but will be shared several months in advance.
Christmas Craft, Food and Gift Fair at Sandringham
Sandringham’s Craft, Food and Gift Fair is a great place to kick off your Christmas shopping during November. With craft stalls, food halls, gifts and clothing, you’re sure to find plenty to tempt you. Dates aren’t out for 2026 yet, but you can find out more here.
Luminate Sandringham
Also at Sandringham, Luminate is an annual winter light trail through the trees. Luminate usually runs from mid November until just before Christmas, and you can find out more on Sandringham’s website.
Winter Wonderland
Norwich’s Winter Wonderland occurs between November and January. With ice skating, live music, Santa’s grotto and a Christmas market, it’s a great way to get into the festive spirit!
Holkham Hall by Candlelight Tours
As seen on Channel 4, Holkham Hall’s Candlelight Tours are a well-loved tradition here in Norfolk. Starting late November and running until late December, the magnificent state rooms in Holkham Hall each get an incredible spruce up for the festive season, uniquely decorated and adorned by talented creatives. Experience the magic with family or friends and learn more here.
Thursford Christmas Spectacular
The Christmas Spectacular at Thursford is a festive variety extravagaza made up of a huge cast! Well-loved by locals, this is sure to impress! You can enjoy the show most nights between early November and late December usually.
The Norfolk Lights Express
Fancy taking a trip on an illuminated steam train? In this mesmorising experience, you’ll be taken from Sheringham to Holt and back, with the scenery outside lit up with enchanting displays. Dates are not yet confirmed but it typically takes place over several weeks.
Cromer Pier Christmas Show
The award-winning Cromer Pier Christmas Show promises to get you into the Christmas spirit! From early November to late December, the enchanting and fun show is suitable for audiences of all ages, with matinee and evening performances to choose from. Find out more here.
What’s on in Norfolk in December 2026
It’s the most wonderful time of the year — and Norfolk knows how to celebrate! From cosy markets to carol singing, food fairs to family festivities, there’s something for everyone this December. Take a look below for ideas to make your Christmas break truly magical.
Holkham Christmas Market
One of the most popular Christmas markets in Norfolk, Holkham’s Christmas Market sees over 60 producers across the Lady Elizabeth Wing and in chalets outside too. With food, drinks and gifts, plus street eats and live performances, it’s a wonderful weekend of treats to tempt you and to fill those stockings! Holkham Christmas Market is usually a three-day event, and we’ll share dates when we know them. Find out more here.
Christmas at Wroxham Barns
Wroxham Barns offers a fun, festive family day out. Santa and Mrs Claus will be there, along with some cheeky elves! It’s on on selected dates throughout December 2026.
An Audience with Father Christmas at Holkham
Explore the magical state rooms of Holkham Hall, meeting Father Christmas, Mother Christmas and their elves along the way in the Saloon, with the biggest Christmas tree you’ve ever seen! Father Christmas’ visits to Holkham book up quickly, so keep an eye on the dates!
Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year sea dips
If you’re feeling brave, why not join in with a festive sea dip?!
The safest way to do this is part of an organised group – you can join in with one of these below which typically take place each year in the morning, collecting donations for a charity.
Hunstanton – Christmas Day swim
Mundesley – Boxing Day dip
Sea Palling – Boxing Day dip
Sheringham – New Year’s Day (2027!) dip
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