The much‑loved Exmouth Festival returns this summer from 9–12 July 2026, bringing four days of free live music, dance, theatre, poetry and family activities to the heart of Exmouth.
With its bold new theme Wild Things, Exmouth Festival 2026 celebrates our native flora, fauna and fungi, while inviting everyone to reconnect with nature – and with the wild creativity within. Set across several stunning locations, this vibrant arts festival is one of the highlights of the Exmouth events calendar.
👉 Find more things to see and do
What Is the Theme of Exmouth Festival 2026?
The 2026 theme, Wild Things, draws inspiration from the natural landscapes that surround Exmouth, including the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site and East Devon National Landscape.
Throughout the festival, you’ll see this theme expressed through:
- Nature‑inspired music, poetry and dance
- Creative workshops celebrating wildlife and the environment
- Performances that explore our connection to the natural world
Live Music and Poetry in Exmouth
Live music remains at the heart of Exmouth Festival, with a diverse programme showcasing established artists, emerging talent and local favourites.
Highlights from the music and spoken word programme include:
- Soul‑jazz powerhouse Lady Nade
- Big blues‑funk sounds from Rioghnach Connelly & Honeyfeet
- Folk favourites Sound of the Sirens
- Global rhythms with Indira Roman and Aji Pa Ti
- British folk fused with African sounds from Kate Griffin & Matchume Zango
- Upbeat reggae from Irie Fire
- DJ party vibes with Mixtape Social Club
- Singalong festival favourites Not The Cowboys
Poetry lovers are in for a treat as Forward Poetry brings spoken word to the main stage, with performances from Toby Campion, K Patrick, Dzifa Benson and Bella Cox and a workshop.
🎶 Discover more live entertainment in town
Family-Friendly Festival Fun at Manor Gardens
Manor Gardens will once again be the lively central hub of Exmouth Festival, offering a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere with activities for all ages.
Families can enjoy:
- Circus workshops and performances with Ben the Juggler
- Magical walkabout characters
- Creative activities for children, including make‑your‑own animal tails
- Soft play for younger visitors
- An eco area showcasing clothes swaps and other sustainability initiatives
- A fully stocked bar and a wide range of food and drink stalls
Don’t miss the popular Friday night Silent Disco, plus creative activities such as ReWilding Shakespeare and joyful singing collaborations throughout the weekend.
👨👩👧👦 Planning a family trip?
A New Festival Venue: Imperial Hotel Gardens
New for 2026, Imperial Hotel Gardens joins the festival as a third venue. With sweeping lawns and spectacular sea views, this beautiful location will host a programme focused on dance, theatre, wellbeing and participation.
Expect highlights including:
- The Valkyries by Four of Swords – blending Greek theatre, Viking and Saxon mythology with pantomime
- My Muses Take Care of Me by Fleur Darkin’s Presence Projects, featuring local performers
- Plant‑powered soundscapes and nature beatboxing workshops with Jason Singh
- The Honouring Cloth by Tidelines, a collaborative embroidery project celebrating native species
- Animal‑inspired stories and plays from The Fabularium, plus W.E.T. Water Explorers games
- Writing workshops with Word Kitchen and poet Toby Campion
- Relaxing wellbeing sessions including Laughter Yoga and Qi Gong
Community Spirit on The Strand
The Strand stage will showcase the very best of Exmouth’s community creativity, with:
- Local choirs and musical theatre groups
- Morris dancing and folk music
- Pirate tales and storytelling
- Creative art activities and a bustling craft market
As always, you’ll also find a fantastic selection of food and drink stalls and cafes nearby, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the festival atmosphere.
Why Visit Exmouth Festival?
✔️ Free entry
✔️ Family‑friendly
✔️ Sustainability-focused event
✔️ Accessible town‑centre locations
✔️ A mix of national, regional and local artists
✔️ Set beside the sea on Devon’s stunning coastline
From live music and poetry to circus, theatre, art, dance and food, Exmouth Festival 2026 offers something for everyone.
Plan Your Visit
📍 Exmouth Festival
📅 9–12 July 2026
🎟️ Free entry
📌 Locations include Manor Gardens, The Strand and Imperial Hotel Gardens
