A Guide to What’s On in Falmouth for 2025

A time of calm after all the festive busyness, January is a quieter time to stay. We are open for short breaks from November to March so you can visit Falmouth for a long weekend or midweek break. Falmouth has a vibrant community of shops, cafes, galleries and restaurants that are mostly open all year round, you might find some will close for a week or so to refurbish or take a well-deserved holiday.

New Year’s Day Swim at Gyllyngvase Beach – 1st of January 2025

Start the year with a splash at Gyllyngvase Beach. Join hundreds of brave watergoers taking the plunge into the bracing sea. Hot chocolate and mulled wine are available at the cafe for after-swim warming.

Stay at Sunrise, a dreamy holiday apartment just behind Gyllyngvase Beach and Queen Mary Gardens with views over Falmouth Bay and towards Pendennis Castle.

In the last month of winter, the days start to feel lighter, and we know there is spring warmth on the way. In February, take a visit to the National Trust’s Trelissick house and gardens in Truro. Stroll through gardens filled with towering trees, a sprinkling of snowdrops and exotic plants, enjoy a cup of tea in the café and browse the shop for unique local gifts. Trelissick is home to one of the largest second-hand book shops within the National Trust.

Valentine’s Day in Falmouth – 14th of February 2025

Early in the month, Falmouth is a beautiful backdrop for a romantic long weekend in Cornwall to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Open for short breaks, we have plenty of cosy properties for a couple’s retreat with sea views to gaze upon with your morning coffee. Plan a romantic trip to Falmouth, book a table for a Valentine’s date at Indidog, sip jazzy cocktails, unwind at a local spa, warm up in the sauna close to Maenporth’s beach, and catch a film at the Phoenix Cinema.

February Half Term – 17th to 21st of February 2025

If you are visiting for the February half-term with the family, there are lots of fun things to do for children of all ages. With the weather a little more uncertain this time of year, here are a few ideas of things to do both inside and outside:

• Explore Falmouth’s boating past at the National Maritime Museum and step back in time at Pendennis Castle.
• See Cornwall’s sea life up close at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary or meet Blossom, Barney and friends at The Flicka Donkey Sanctuary.
• Discover what lives in the rockpools at Castle Beach and enjoy a hedgehog ice cream at Swanpool beach.
• Take part in the Half-term sketchbook trail at Trelissick. Explore our local guide for more activities in the area.

Stay at Morning Star, an adorable, waterside hideaway to provide all the home comforts in the most enchanting setting in Restronguet.

Spring arrives in Cornwall a little earlier than the rest of the UK. A gorgeous time of year to visit Falmouth and The Helford River with gardens in bloom and displaying lush new growth after winter. In Cornwall’s Great Gardens, six Champion Magnolia Campbellii trees are carefully monitored as they come into bloom. Once all six trees display at least fifty blossoms each, it signals the official arrival of spring in England.

St Piran’s Day – 5^th of March 2025

St Piran’s Day (Cornish: Gool Peran) is the National Day of Cornwall held on 5th March every year. Celebrate with the locals on this day by checking out the St Piran’s Day parade through Falmouth. For lunch find one of Falmouth’s best pasties and sit and enjoy overlooking the harbour.

Falmouth Spring Flower Show – 22nd to 23rd of March 2025

Since 1910, the Spring Flower Show has filled the Princess Pavilion with vibrant blooms, welcoming all ages and abilities, from home growers to professionals. With free entry, visitors can enjoy a stunning display of flowers, a lively local produce competition, and delicious food and drink from local traders. A highlight in the horticultural calendar for Cornwall’s renowned gardens, including Trebah, Glendurgan and Enys. If you are a lover of all things horticultural it’s a great time to explore Falmouth’s gardens for yellow swathes of Daffodils, delicate pink magnolia blossoms and hot pink camellias.

Catch the new Surf! Exhibition at the National Maritime Museum – Friday 28th of March to January 2027

A century of surf culture, shaped by the Atlantic and championed by Cornish wave riders. This deep dive into Cornwall’s surfing heritage has been crafted with care, with legends like Dr Sam Bleakley lending their expertise to the story.

Surfing runs deep in Cornwall, forging connections with the international scene from Oahu’s iconic North Shore to J-Bay’s legendary right-handers. Cornish surfers have made their mark on the world stage, Ben Skinner has paddled his way into multiple World Longboard Tour finals, while big-wave chargers like Tom Lowe have taken on the monstrous waves of Jaws and Nazaré. From those first glides to world-class performances, this is the story of surfing in Cornwall.

Stay at Trevone, nestled in the quaint village of Mawnan Smith, close to Helford’s magical gardens Glendurgan and Trebah.

Spring is in full swing and we’re all getting excited for Easter festivities. The Easter break is a little busier than the beginning of the month as the schools break up for the holidays and people make use of the extra bank holidays. In and around Falmouth many heritage attractions hold easter events such as the famous Dragon Egg Trail at Enys Gardens and adventure quests at Pendennis Castle so keep an eye out for events online.

Wanderfal Festival – 11th to 12th of April 2025

The Cornish Bank brings us the Wanderfal Festival, a vibrant celebration of music and arts across Falmouth. This two-day local music event makes for a fun musical getaway to Cornwall, featuring live performances across different Falmouth venues from local and worldwide artists. We recommend booking a ticket if you’re interested as they often sell out in advance.

Antiques Fair at Enys Gardens – 26^th – 27^th of April 2025

A Cornish antiques fair set in the wonderful gardens of Enys House, organised by Ludgate House Antiques of Falmouth High Street. The event welcomes lots of fabulous antique exhibitors who travel from around Cornwall to sell their wares. You can expect to find vintage rugs, mid-century furniture, ceramics and lots of unique decorative items.

The Roseland Festival – 25th of April to 4th of May 2025

A rich Cornish arts festival on the Roseland Peninsular that covers film, photography, literature, folk music, history, art, walks, choirs and more.  The full programme will be released early in the year, last year’s was announced in March so keep an eye out for more details on their website.

Stay at Captains Retreat, steps away from Events Square’s restaurants and the National Maritime Museum Cornwall.

May is the month for food festivals. The weather is warmer, and it is quieter than the summer months so an ideal time to stay. Over the years more food festivals have been popping up to shine a light on the marvellous array of Cornish food, restaurants, drinks and chefs.

Porthleven Food Festival – 2nd to 4th of May 2025

Each year, the Porthleven Food Festival serves up fresh exciting new foods to try, inviting visitors to indulge amidst the stunning backdrop of the Cornish coast. Just a short drive from Falmouth, this event has become a highlight of the Cornish calendar, attracting food lovers, chefs, and artisans from across the country.  Read our visitor’s guide to the festival.

Bluebell Festival at Enys Gardens – 3^rd of May – 11^th of May 2025

Falmouth is home to a few stunning displays of bluebells in the local woodlands. If you’d like to see a truly amazing display visit Enys Gardens, a privately run estate with 1,000 acres of woodland, gardens and meadows ideal for a dog walk. The bluebell meadow, believed to be undisturbed since ancient times, is full of bluebells around the start of May.

St Ives Food & Drink Festival – 16th to 18th of May 2025

Worth the day trip to experience the UK’s only food and drink festival on the beach. The St Ives Food & Drink Festival is an annual celebration that offers a delightful blend of culinary experiences, live music, and family-friendly activities, all set against the stunning backdrop of St Ives’ Porthminster Beach.

Falmouth Food Festival, Falmouth – 24th to 26th of May 2025

Founded in 2022 Falmouth Food Festival is growing each year with fabulous food and drink producers. With three days of street food, artisan wines and music that make us so proud of our local area. The stalls are spread across a couple of locations in Falmouth’s town such as Events Square and Church Street carpark next to the harbour. This food festival is free and it’s a brilliant opportunity to also explore the town centre’s art galleries and shops.

Stay at Janes Court 3, overlooking Falmouth Harbour with a well-equipped kitchen and comfortable lounge with a sea view.

Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival, Falmouth – 13th to 15th of June 2025

The first month of summer brings one of our favourite events, the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival. One of the most popular dates of the year, this is one great big foamy folk festival celebrating Falmouth’s seafaring past. Get ready to sing your heart out and soak up the unbeatable atmosphere at Europe’s largest free nautical music festival. The streets, pubs, and harbourside come alive with catchy sea shanties and boatloads of fun.

Falmouth Classics Regatta, Falmouth – 13th to 15th of June 2025

Running alongside the Sea Shanty Festival, Falmouth Classics Regatta features three days of sailboat racing. The Carrick Roads and Falmouth Bay are some of the best sailing waters around and will be full of sails of all types, shapes, and colours. Vessels range in size from 9ft to 30ft or more and include the famous Falmouth Working Boats. Bringing in sailors and water enthusiasts from across the country to experience one of the UK’s largest classic sailing events.

Stay at White Wings, a high-end eco house settled on Harbour Terrace, a short walk to the harbour. A peaceful sanctuary to stay at during the busier town centre festivities of June.

Golowan Festival, Penzance – 16th to 24th of June 2025

Located in Penzance, a 10-day festival of arts, performances, culture, and parades. ‘Golowan’ is the Cornish word for Midsummer celebrations in Cornwall, and it’s the UK’s second-largest street festival. The theme this year is chosen for its air of optimism and for the plethora of images that it conjures! It is a celebratory reflection of the power of our Cornish coast and its environment.

Falmouth Cringe Festival, Falmouth – 10th to 13th of July 2025

Back by popular demand for a second year, this four-day comedy extravaganza showcases talented comedians from local and international scenes. The festival features stand-up performances, improv shows, and sketch comedies across various stages throughout Falmouth town. The 2025 line is to be confirmed.

Cornwall Shop Small Market, Truro – 15th of July 2025

Located at Lemon Quay in Truro, the Cornwall Shop Small Market is a colourful event that showcases the best of local craftsmanship and produce. Over 60 Stalls: Featuring local makers, artists, and designers offering contemporary crafts, unique homeware, vintage clothing, and artisan food and drink.

Tropical Pressure Festival, Porthtowan – 18th to 20th of July 2025

An intimate and authentic summer festival located at Mount Pleasant Eco Park in Porthtowan. Take a day trip to this stunning farm festival for live music, great food and happy vibes. The team passionately curate a one-of-a-kind lineup of music, food, and workshops that celebrate the vibrant cultures of Latin America, Africa, and the Caribbean.

Stay at Pineawn, a short drive or a 15-minute stroll down the road to Swanpool Beach. Delight in clear waters for swimming and yummy ice creams.

Falmouth Week in Falmouth – 8th to 17th of August 2025

Falmouth Week is a fun event for locals and visitors alike. With its origins as a local sailing regatta dating back as far as 1837, Falmouth Week has evolved into one of the major sailing competitions in the south-west. It is also shoreside experience with plenty of live music, including the famous 80s and 00s nights, an eclectic market on The Moor and BMX, skateboard demonstrations.

Stay at The Boathouse and embrace life beside the lively marina while enjoying all the pleasures and comforts of this magical space.

September is a fabulous month to explore Falmouth’s art galleries and you can often experience the last of the summer sunshine whilst doing it. We would recommend visiting Morgans Art and Design gallery based in a five-storey period property. Falmouth Art Gallery on the Moor houses some of the most important art collections in Cornwall. Featuring works by major artists including Thomas Gainsborough, Sir Alfred Munnings, RA, Kenneth Newton, Ben Nicholson, Harry Ousey, Sir Roland Penrose, Man Ray, William Strang, RA, Henry Scott Tuke, RA and George Frederick Watts, RA. The Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society (known affectionately as The Poly) has been encouraging innovation and culture for over 175 years and is an important cultural hub in Cornwall. A live arts venue, arts cinema, gallery, community pottery centre and makers guild, The Poly is set in a beautiful historic venue in the heart of Falmouth, Cornwall.

St. Ives September Festival – 13th to 27th of September 2025

One of the area’s oldest arts festivals created in 1978 it is now an exciting 15 days of music and arts all over this beautiful town by the sea in Cornwall. Music events will be held in the refurbished St Ives theatre and festivalgoers will be able to book numbered seats. St Ives’s deep connection to the contemporary arts is still very much alive and will feature everything from pottery exhibitions to theatre performances.

Stay at Hamilton Place with its mid century interior style, close to the train station and you can hop on the train to St Ives. The 1 hour 30 minute train journey takes you across to Truro and then up towards St Erth. Here you join the St Ives branch line that takes you along the beautiful coastline of the sandy Hayle Estuary, past Carbis Bay and up into St Ives. (It’s an 8-minute walk into town (step-free but steep in places) where you can explore the harbour, shops, galleries and restaurants.) You could also park and ride from St Erth for the beautiful train journey and to save time parking.

Falmouth Oyster Festival, Falmouth – 9th to 12th of October 2025

This weekend festival celebrates the start of the oyster dredging season, something that is still done under sail on the Helford. This popular, traditional event showcases quality Cornish Seafood and the unique surrounding location and heritage. Get inspired after watching local chefs and taste the native seafood, fresh from the sea.

Halloween In Falmouth – 31st of October 2025 

Step onto the Horrors of Falmouth ghost tour in October—or any time of year—for a fun and spooky journey through some of the town’s darker tales. Expect the occasional gory story much like Horrible Histories, making it suitable for the entire family. Walking tours of Falmouth are available most of the year, with the exception of a short period in the winter. An excellent activity as storytellers bring the town’s maritime history to life. Even for locals, their Falmouth Uncovered tour is a really interesting walking tour of the town.

Stay at Elysium for a homely feel with thoughtful touches and unique ocean panoramas, that are going to make it hard to leave.

The festive season begins in November as light displays and Christmas markets start to pop up around the Duchy. Falmouth is lucky to have a plethora of local makers and artisan bakers, which in turn makes for a fabulous destination for a Christmas shopping holiday by the coast.

Bonfire Night in Falmouth – 5^th of November 2025

Falmouth much like many UK towns is a hive of activity for the biggest fireworks night of the year. Wrap up warm, indulge in foodie delights and watch the bright display of fireworks from Falmouth Cricket Club.

Christmas Markets in Falmouth – Varying date ranges from the end of November

Cornwall is renowned for its artisans and makers, so it’s no surprise that the county has mastered the art of winter fayres and Christmas markets. Many of the events occur annually so take a look at our guide from last year to get an idea of what’s on and once the 2025 dates are live, we will update them. Explore Christmas markets around Falmouth

Lost Gardens of Heligan Light Display – TBC

Experience the magical Night Garden light display, transforming the gardens into a winter wonderland. The award-winning winter garden light trail returns from mid-November and runs until early January. This is a spectacular not to be missed and a highlight across the southwest and beyond. Every year a new trail reveals the hidden flora and fauna of the gardens, inspired by the wildlife and characters which call Heligan home.

Stay at Cannonball, overlooking one of the finest sea views in Falmouth, this handsome 17th century home has a rich maritime history and oodles of charm.

As the days shorten and nights draw in, Winter is here and Christmas is soon to follow. A quieter time of year with mizzle days spent at warm Falmouth cafes overlooking the water, and evenings by the log fire of a cosy Helford River pub with a game of Scrabble. Best always be prepared in Cornwall for the weather so pack your waterproofs, boots and stride out into the beautiful landscapes.

Festive celebrations include:

• Lost Gardens of Heligan Light Display Night Garden
• Falmouth Lights Switch-on
• Carol Services at Events Square
• New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Stay at Dinyan for a festive holiday spent on the Helford River in Port Navas, with riverside views as you cook a roast dinner and evening drinks at the yacht club.