What’s on in Devon
Devon is jam-packed with things to do for all the family whatever time of year you visit. Home to winding waterways, quaint market towns, bustling cities - and a perfect holiday park - there’s so much to explore.
If you’re looking for what’s on in Devon for the whole family, here are the events you need to know about.
What’s on in Devon: family-friendly events and festivals
The Hazelwood team had a tough time whittling down this ‘what’s on in Devon’ list - but after plenty of detailed debate, here’s our list of favourite family-friendly events in Devon:
British Fireworks Championships
16th - 17th August, 9:30pm @ The Hoe or The Citadel, Plymouth
If you don’t want to wait until November to witness some spectacular firework displays, head to Plymouth on 16th or 17th August. Six top pyrotechnic companies showcase their creative talents, competing to become the British Firework Champions. Head to The Hoe or The Citadel for the best views of six ten-minute firework displays - all for free!
Free entry.
Gone Wild with Bear Grylls
24th - 27th August @ Powderham Castle, Nr. Exeter
TV adventurer Bear Grylls is back at Powderham Castle for the ultimate family adventure holiday. By day, get stuck into all manner of outdoor activities from paddleboarding and open water swimming to adventure obstacle courses and a quad bike safaris. By evening, head to the family rave or the music stage to enjoy 2023 headliners Feeder, Scouting For Girls and Sugababes.
Adult tickets are £230 for the weekend or £75 for a single day. One free child ticket (under 11) with each adult ticket.
Ottery St Mary’s Food & Families Festival
9th September @ Ottery St Mary
Foodie families - get ready for a whole day of gastronomic fun at this iconic Devon festival. There’s lots to get stuck into throughout the day - chef’s demos, cookery workshops, an entertainment stage and much more. The Creative Cabin has a host of children’s activities to get involved in. And most importantly, there’s heaps of local street food and drink to try.
Free entry.
Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival
20th - 24th September @ Budleigh Salterton
Budding bookworms should head to this wonderful celebration of books by the sea. There’s a jam-packed schedule for both adults and children. Famous names for adults include Kate Mosse, David Baddiel and Alastair Campbell. Children will enjoy meeting Gruffalo illustrator Axel Scheffler, getting stuck into Horrible History activities and meeting Sir Charlie Stinky Socks.
Festival talks and workshops vary in price, many kids activities are free.
Clovelly Apple Day
22nd October @ Clovelly
Celebrate the coming of apple season at the unique venue of Clovelly. Visitors are greeted with the annual apple press outside the visitors centre - bring your own apples for a sip of the freshest apple juice you’ll ever taste. In Clovelly itself, you’ll find all kinds of arts and crafts activities from apple bobbing to apple stamping and corn dolly making. Take part in the harvest hunt and garden tour, wander the farmers market and enjoy a cider tasting at the local pub.
Normal Clovelly entrance fees to apply.
Lanterns, Lights and ‘Luminations
25th November @ Brixham
Kick start the festive season in Brixham with a celebration of light. There’s a whole host of entertainment in the town centre throughout the day but things really come alive after dark. Witness the impressive lantern parade, spectacular fireworks display and, of course, Christmas light switch on.
Free entry
Winter Wonderland
24th November - 1st January @ Plymouth
For the first year ever, Plymouth will be getting it’s very own Winter Wonderland! Details are a little thin on the ground at the time of writing but the organisers have promised ice skating on a real ice rink, a live music area, over 25 food choices, rides and attractions. And of course, Father Christmas himself will be in his grotto the whole time.
Prices not yet announced.
Christmas Train of Lights
24th November - 30th December @ Dartmouth Steam Railway
The UK’s first ever steam train of lights will be back for Christmas - with some new surprises for 2023. Travel from Paignton to Kingswear on a magical steam ride in vintage carriages decorated inside and out with thousands of lights. Look out for the illuminated Greenaway tunnel - a real sight to behold.
Adult tickets are £29. Children’s tickets are £20. Under 3 are free.
After a fun-filled day out enjoying the best of what’s on in Devon, wind down at Hazelwood Holiday Park. Set in 38 acres of peaceful, award-winning grounds, Hazelwood has a spacious, friendly feel that keep families coming back again and again.
Our self-catering accommodation is perfect for all. Find homes with hot tubs, cheerful chalets and luxury lodges. There’s all you need for a fun-filled coastal holiday for the whole family.