Best Events in Cornwall 2026 for Families, Groups & Couples
There are many fantastic reasons to visit Cornwall – but tying it in with one of the region’s best events can make your visit extra special. In 2026, there’s plenty to look forward to – from exciting music festivals where you can dance the night away with friends, and family friendly events great for entertaining children, to tantalising food festivals showcasing the region’s best produce and maritime-inspired festivities where you can do a deeper dive into local culture.
If tying your visit in with one of the best events in Cornwall appeals to you, then here’s what’s lined up for 2026. Whether you’re visiting as a family, looking for a romantic escape or travelling as part of a larger group, there is guaranteed to be an event which will suit you!
Best Family Friendly Events in Cornwall 2026
Truro Food Festival
Including fun days out for little ones, musical festivals with small crowds and events to suit all ages, these are the best family friendly events in Cornwall in 2026.
Murdoch Day – Best Day Out For Young Families in Cornwall
When: Saturday 13th June 2026
Where: Redruth
In recognition of the town’s long history of innovation and technology, Redruth’s Murdoch Day promises an educational and light-hearted day out for families just a five-minute drive from The Cornish Place. Dedicated to William Murdoch – famous for inventing early steam gas technology – activities include displays of early steam engines, historical exhibitions and a digital town trail. Other child-friendly activities include facepainting stalls, craft workshops and a traditional funfair. There will also be a children’s dance procession, independent stalls throughout the town and live music at Redruth Buttermarket.
Tropical Pressure – Best Music Festival for Young Families in Cornwall
When: Friday 10th to Sunday 12th July 2026
Where: Porthtowan Eco Park
With just a few thousand tickets available, Tropical Pressure is well-suited to families and those looking for a more relaxed festival experience. There are no big queues or overwhelming crowds and it has to be one of the friendliest festivals anywhere. It’s also one of Cornwall’s most sustainable events, based in the middle of an eco park with plant-based food and compostable toilets. Multiple stages deliver a line-up of Latin American, African and Caribbean music and there are heaps of activities to get involved in – ranging from willow weaving and flower pressing, to dance classes and circus skills. Plus, kids-friendly activities like bug hunting, kite making and storytelling.
Stithians Show – Best Family Friendly Agricultural Show in Cornwall
When: Monday 13th July 2026
Where: Stithians Showground
Enjoy the best of country living at one of Cornwall’s most-loved agricultural gatherings – Stithians Show. Suitable for the whole family, you’ll get the chance to see all of your favourite animals in the cattle displays, horse competitions and dog agility shows. There are plenty of demonstrations to enjoy, alongside vintage vehicles and trade stands with top-quality items grown by Cornish farmers and regional producers. On top of that, there’s a fairground, live music across two stages and a family friendly Sunflower Trail – which takes you through a range of hands-on activities and learning experiences.
Little Orchard Cider & Music Festival – Best Relaxed Family Festival in Cornwall
When: Friday 11th to Sunday 13th September 2026
Where: Healeys Cyder Farm, Truro
Join in a late summer Cornish party at The Little Orchard Cider and Music Festival – a family-friendly gathering and small event in a rural setting. Perfect for parents fond of cider and families who enjoy pop music, highlights include the BBC Introducing Stage and other big bands. In between, enjoy activities like apple bobbing and circus skills, meet the farm animals or dance to silent disco yoga amidst the trees. There’s also a vintage funfair and tractor rides, ideal for entertaining children.
Looking for family friendly accommodation in Cornwall?
The Barn cottage at The Cornish Place
Our family friendly and dog friendly luxury self-catered accommodation in Cornwall is less than a 20-minute drive from all of Cornwall’s best family friendly events. Set within quiet farmland, it’s the perfect place to relax in between busy days out with the children.
Best events for groups in Cornwall 2026
Tunes in the Dunes at Perranporth Beach
Whether it’s a big family meet up, or a reunion with friends, these are the best events for groups in Cornwall in 2026.
The Great Estate Festival – Best Festival For Groups in Cornwall
When: Friday 29th to Sunday 31st May 2026
Where: Scorrier House
A flamboyant festival, perfect for groups looking to enjoy the whimsical side of things The Great Estate Festival is also a great day out for families. Combining big name headliners like Sophie Ellis Bexter and Future Dub Orchestra with lesser known acts and secret gin gardens – there are also plenty of additional activities. Enjoy a vintage fairground, circus learning skills, burlesque cabaret and a big focus on fancy dress. Plus, a wellbeing area with hot tubs, yoga and nature classes. Afterwards, hop in a taxi to The Cornish Place (a 10-minute drive away), the perfect spot for recovering.
Tunes in the Dunes – Best Night Out With Friends in Cornwall
When: Friday 5th to Sunday 7th June 2026
Where: Perranporth beach
Head to the coast for a festival experience like no other, where you can dance on the sand whilst the sun sets into the sea. Based on one of Cornwall’s best beaches, Tunes in the Dunes brings headlining pop artists like Basement Jaxx and Professor Green, alongside nostalgic bands like Scouting for Girls and Rhythm of the 90s DJ sets. Create new memories and reminisce to tunes from years gone by for the ultimate group gathering.
Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival – Best Event For Multigenerational Groups in Cornwall
When: Friday 12th to Sunday 14th June 2026
Where: Various venues throughout Falmouth
Mention Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival to anyone in Cornwall and a smile will light up their face. Each year, it brings a whole range of sea shanty groups to various venues across the town, turning it into a feel-good street festival. Listen to uplifting shanties from not just Cornwall, but other Celtic nations too, whilst sipping on beer, sampling delicious street food and of course – treating yourself to a Cornish pasty. This really is an event for everyone, where you’ll see grandparents, parents and children all enjoying the maritime tradition.
Falmouth Week – Best All Round Group Event in Cornwall
When: Friday 7th to Sunday 16th August 2026
Where: Various venues across Falmouth
A major attraction for both locals and visitors alike, Falmouth Week has its origins in the town’s sailing regatta – one of the major maritime competitions in the South West. However, alongside racing boats there is also plenty of shoreside entertainment. By day, there are family friendly activities, a pink wig mermaid march, Falmouth town carnival and Red Arrows air display. In the evenings, expect themed nights out ranging from 80s disco music to Ska nights.
Looking for group friendly accommodation in Cornwall?
Our clustered cottages in Cornwall for large groups accommodate up to 16 guests. Spread across four different properties and with free onsite parking for up to 6 cars, it’s the perfect place to base yourself for the best group-friendly events in Cornwall.
Best events for couples in Cornwall 2026
Truro Christmas Market
Fancy a romantic escape near the Cornish coast, with a special event to attend with your loved one? These are the best events for couples in Cornwall in 2026.
Falmouth Oyster Festival – Best Event For Seafood Lovers in Cornwall
When: October (dates TBC)
Where: Church Street car park
They say oysters are an aphrodisiac and you’ll find the best at Falmouth Oyster Festival! For seafood lovers, this annual celebration of the oyster dredging season promises plenty of tantalising treats – including the freshest Falmouth oysters, regional street food and local traders selling everything from local booze to handmade crafts and jewellery. You’ll also enjoy live entertainment including cooking demonstrations, oyster shucking competitions and live music. All together making for a fun-filled day out for you and your loved one.
Truro Christmas Market – Best Event For a Romantic Christmas Feel in Cornwall
When: Saturday 21st November to Thursday 24th December 2026
Where: Lemon Quay, Truro
If you’re planning a romantic winter escape to Cornwall, time your stay with Truro Christmas Market. Running for much of December, it’s one of Cornwall’s largest festive markets, filled with charming wooden chalets, twinkling lights and live music echoing through the city streets. Wander between local artisan stalls as the scent of mulled wine and seasonal treats drifts through the air, creating a warm, festive atmosphere that’s perfect for couples looking to soak up Cornwall’s Christmas charm.
Looking for romantic farm cottages in Cornwall?
The Shed Cottage
Our quiet bolthole comes complete with wood-fired hot tubs, cosy log burning stoves and is surrounded by beautiful farmland scenery, offering a relaxing nature-filled escape in a romantic setting.
Book your stay
If you’d like to attend one of these incredible events in Cornwall, book your stay at The Cornish Place. Or, get in touch if you have any questions about our accommodation.
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