The Cotswolds' year is packed with events, ranging from world famous international festivals like Cheltenham Literature Festival or Cheltenham Gold Cup Week to quirky events like the Cotswold Olimpick Games or Tetbury Wool Sack Races. There are major musical events like the Wilderness Festival, Cornbury Festival or the Big Feastival, as well a packed events calender featuring music, exhibitions, arts and literature festivals, theatrical productions.
You’ll find plenty of inspiration to help you make the most of your stay, whether you’re planning your visit around a particular festival or just looking to see what’s on when you’re here.
Autumn Events
Heritage days see some attractions, not normally open to the public, open their doors. The leaf colours of Westonbirt Arboretum and Batsford Arboretum amaze. The Times Cheltenham Literature Festival is the flagship festival of the autumn.
Winter Events
In winter, you'll find carpets of snowdrops at Painswick Rococo Gardens, Colesbourne and Newark Park. The Cheltenham Racecourse Christmas Meeting and Gloucester Cajun & Zydeco Festival add a touch of spice to the proceedings.
Christmas Events
Christmas markets appear in towns and villages such as Cheltenham, Cirencester and Gloucester, whilst attractions across the Cotswolds light up for the festive season.
Spring Events
The Festival at Cheltenham kicks off the jump racing season in March with the excitment of Gold Cup day. Families can enjoy Easter egg hunts at many Cotswolds' attractions. Badminton Horse Trials and Cheltenham Jazz Festival are some of the largest festivals in spring. Quirky Cotswolds events include the famous Cheese Rolling at Cooper's Hill and Tetbury Woolsack Races.
Summer Events
Look out for magical Giffords Circus as it travels its way around the Cotswolds. Families will also enjoy the Times Science Festival and Wychwood Music Festival. Other key events include the Three Counties Show, Tewkesbury Medieval Festival and the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford.
