Exmouth Festival is just around the corner – and if you thought you knew what to expect, think again. This year’s theme, Stories From The Sea, promises to cast a creative net across the town, with arts, music and activities all inspired by our coastal heritage. Whether you’re a long-time festivalgoer or discovering it for the first time, 2025 is shaping up to be something truly special.
A Music Line-Up as Diverse as the Tides
Exmouth Festival’s reputation for showcasing musical talent continues with a fantastic line-up spanning genres and generations. Expect a true musical feast: from the Radio 2-backed country sounds of First Time Flyers to the dynamic hip hop of The Scribes, plus infectious world beats from Santa Negra and Cable Street Collective. Spoken-word genius Samantics returns with his unmistakable lyrical wizardry.
Local talent takes centre stage too – quite literally – with popular Exmouth acts like Souled, The Balcony Band, Druzba, and the Exmouth Jam Night Band ready to get you dancing well into the evening.
Don’t miss the return of the ever-popular Silent Disco on Friday night in Manor Gardens, where two DJs will battle for your headphones – and your best dance moves. Be sure to book in advance, as headphones are limited.
Manor Gardens: The Beating Heart of the Festival
Once again, Manor Gardens will transform into a vibrant hub filled with live music on the bandstand, circus acts, eco hubs, craft tents, and delicious street food. New for this year is the Words & Workshops Tent, where you’ll find a rich programme of talks and hands-on sessions. Highlights include author talks, Qi Gong, Laughter Yoga, Climate Choir, and a unique exploration of eels and estuary life with Tidelines and illustrator Luke Thompson.
Festival Fun Across the Town
At The Strand, enjoy performances from local choirs, community groups, and dancers – including sea shanties and lively morris dancing. You’ll also find the Imaginarium tent, creative craft stalls, and the Sundowners horsebox bar serving refreshments with a view.
This year also sees an exciting new addition: Queens Drive Event Space, a fresh venue behind Funtastic Island. This grassy area becomes the home of the alternative stage, championing up-and-coming musicians and youth talent through collaborations with Battle of the Bands, Midi TV, and Sound Tribe. Expect thrilling sets from rising stars like Ez Dickens, The Scribes, and the ever-popular Jam Night Band.
Over at Sideshore, prepare to be intrigued by a mysterious whale installation, browse a plastic-free market, get hands-on with marine science activities, and let the kids loose at the ever-popular beach play zone.
Art, Access, and Affordability
An art trail will thread through the town, encouraging visitors to explore and engage with local creativity at their own pace. Best of all, Exmouth Festival remains mostly free to attend, with only a handful of ticketed events – making it a brilliant budget-friendly day out for all ages.
With sustainability at its core, excellent public transport links, and a whole town of activity, Exmouth Festival continues to prove why it’s such a cherished part of the summer calendar.
Keep an eye out for the full programme coming soon and start planning your seaside celebration now.
