Devon’s Social Scene: Where to See and Be Seen This Year

Just like most counties in the UK, each year Devon has a jam-packed social scene with multiple events throughout the year. There are a wide array of different events on the calendar, so there's something that will meet each person's preference. On top of that, some of these social and cultural events are the best in the area, and a great place to be seen out and about. Rather than hide in your hotel room accessing one of the many, why not join in the community vibe that is Devon. Let's take a look at some of the best options for this year.

Vibing at a Festival

First up in Devon, there are an amazing variety of different festivals to be found. These come in a wide assortment of types from music and arts, to heritage and food. For instance, the Exeter Festival of South West Food and Drink is a great option for anyone who is a foodie. It takes place in the grounds of Exeter Castle and is a jam-packed weekend of food, drink and entertainment. All the best foodies will be found here. For more food options, there is the Plymouth Seafood Festival, North Devon Foodfest, Dartmouth Food Festival and the Powderham Food Festival to fit into a busy eating calendar.

Alternatively, Plymouth is home to a host of different festivals and events. The Contemporary Craft Festival is a highlight when June roles around. Following this, is the Mid-Devon Show in July, where there are farm demonstrations, rural crafts and more food and drink than you can shake a stick at. And if you’re looking for a break from the festival buzz, you can unwind by listening to a podcast, watching a movie, or even exploring some live UK casino sites on your phone.

For a quieter festival, literature fans will be delighted to find that there are book festivals galore. Running in September, both the Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival and the Appledore Book Festivals are the best places to rub shoulders and chat with some high profile authors.

Stranger Events

There are some more unusual events in Devon too, and many of these hark back to years of history. For instance, Tavistock's Goose Fair takes place in October. This event has been going for a long time (since the 12th Century), when farmers would drive their geese through the streets to be put on sale. While this practice is long gone, there are goose lunches available throughout the town during this event, as well as market traders and showmen.

Another unusual, bird-themed event in Devon is the South West Birdman Competition held in Ilfracombe in July. This event sees would-be aviators throw themselves off the pier in the hopes that they can fly the furthest before crash-landing in the sea. It's a fun "flying" event that's also coupled with a solid music festival, food stalls, artisan market and even an ale and cider festival to top it off.

Finally, for something truly strange, you can join the carrying of burning Tar Barrels through Ottery St Mary on November 5th. It's an event that's hundreds of years old, and is likely to have started after the 1605 Gunpowder Plot. Devon is known as a county of torchlight processions. However, Ottery St Mary remains the only town in the whole county where fully lit barrels are still carried through the streets.

The Main Events

There are some other major events throughout the year, too. And missing out on these is a big no-no if you're planning on being in Devon. The British Fireworks Championships take place in Plymouth during August. This two-day programme begins at dusk and continues on with epic displays. Of course, it's also coupled with an array of music, funfairs and entertainment.

Live music events are prevalent throughout the county as well. These include the Goldcoast Oceanfest in June and the Croyde Beautiful Days in August, which is a family-friendly weekend festival. International artists are also typically seen performing at Exeter's Westpoint venue during the year.

Sports hold a major place in the heart of Devonshire people, too. There are events throughout the year. Major rugby events are found at Sandy Park, home of the Exeter Chiefs. There are also major regattas, including the Royal Dartmouth, and there is even a portion of the Tour of Britain cycle race, which draws the crowds when it passes through.

Whatever you can think of, there's something for everyone in Devon. Make the most of your time there and join in on these hugely social events.