What’s on in Cumbria in 2023?

The schedule of what’s on in Cumbria in 2023 is jam-packed with must-visit events, activities, and attractions.

Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the great outdoors, enjoy a weekend of live music, or peruse quaint market stalls, there’s something for everyone.

We’ve compiled a handy list of what’s on in Cumbria in 2023 and included some of our favourites. Keep reading to find out more…

Kendal Calling 2023

27^th – 30^th July 2023

Held annually on the ground of Lowther Deer Park is the much-loved music festival Kendal Calling. Showcasing music and art from across the world, Kendal Calling Is easily one of our favourites of the Lake Districts events.

Taking place between the 27^th and 30^th of July, there are weekend and individual day tickets available for Kendal Calling 2023. On-site camping is available, as well as a designated bus service running from Penrith Railway Station.

Yet to be confirmed, the star-studded line up has previously included Snoop Dogg, Blondie, Noel Gallagher, and Calvin Harris.

There’s also comedy shows, cinema screenings and a peaceful woodland garden. Licenced bars and food vendors will be on hand for all your catering needs!

Keswick Market

Saturdays Weekly & Thursdays (between Feb-Dec)

Held each Saturday, the Keswick outdoor Market is amongst the towns most loved attractions. Once voted the ‘Best Outdoor Market in the UK’, it’s easy to see why.

Over 70 stalls find themselves scattered through the streets of Keswick, each brimming with fresh, local produce, crafts, and homeware.

Between February and December, the Keswick Market takes place twice a week. Be sure to visit on a Thursday or a Saturday, where you can pick up a keepsake or some tasty treats.

Fell Foot Parkrun

Every Saturday

One of the most popular Lake District running events, Parkrun is a free weekly 5km race. Held amongst the stunning greenery of Fell Foot Park, Parkrun is a wonderful way to take in the sights of this picture-perfect area of the Lake District.

The beauty of Parkrun is you can complete the distance running, jogging, or walking. If you’re not keen to participate, you can volunteer or spectate!

This popular running event in the Lake District starts at 9am every Saturday, beginning and ending at the National Trust’s Fell Foot.

For the competitors amongst us, there’s chipped timing, and for the sociable type, there’s post-run coffee at the Fell Foot Boathouse Café.

Register for Parkrun here!

Screenings at Theatre by the Lake

Daily Showings

Situated on the shores of Derwentwater, a visit to the Theatre by the Lake is a must. If you’re looking to see what’s on in Cumbria, then look no further. With a regular schedule of performances, you’re sure to find something worth watching.

Categories include musicals, comedy, films, and family-friendly favourites, with previous showings including The Borrowers and Around The World in 80 Days.

There are also accessible events, with British sign language, audio described and captioned performances.

There are two stages, one more intimate than the other, along with a licenced in-house bar. You’ll find the Lakeside Café Restaurant next door, serving a delicious menu of nibbles and main meals.

Race the Sun 2023

9^th September

One for the adrenalin-junkies, Race the Sun is an action-packed Triathlon-style challenge. Taking place amongst the stunning scenery of the National Park, the aim is to finish the challenge before sun set.

You’ll take on cycling, hiking, and canoeing in teams of two or four. No experience is essential, however keep in mind that this is a physically challenging day of activity.

The registration fee is £198 for groups of four and £99 for groups of two, with team fundraising targets of £1,900 and £950.

Will your team Race the Sun in time? Register online for Race the Sun 2023 now!

Solfest 2023

24^th– 27^th August

This award-winning family-friendly music and art festival takes place over August Bank Holiday weekend. A popular event in the Lake District, Solfest has been previously recognized as the Best Family Festival.

Children of all ages are welcome, with tickets free of charge for little ones under the age of four. There’s also child, teenager, adult and family tickets.

The Solfest 2023 line up includes The Charlatans, The Zutons and a DJ set from Pendulum.  There’s also fairground rides, art and craft classes and a wealth of food and drink vendors.

There’s parking available on-site for caravans and campervans, along with pre-pitched glamping pods and ample space available for camping.

For an added touch of luxury, there’s also priority showers and posh loos, ideal for those who aren’t avid campers.

Buy your tickets here!

Cockermouth Indoor Market and Car Boot

Every Sunday    

Home to the largest indoor market in Cumbria, this weekly Lake District event is one of the counties most popular. When you’re looking at what’s on in Cumbria, the Cockermouth indoor market and car boot is something you’ll be happy to add to your itinerary!

Taking place every Sunday, the market regularly hosts up to 230 traders across the food market, the makers market and the car boot.

You can expect to peruse stalls of fresh, locally-grown goods, homecooked foods, quirky crafts and artwork, all sourced from local farmers and producers.

And what’s better, the market is sheltered from the elements, making this Lake District event perfect for a rainy day!

Bowness Bay Blues Festival 2023

31^st March – 2^nd April

On our list of what’s on in Cumbria in 2023, the Bowness Bay Blues Festival is one for the music lovers. The 11th annual festival, this is one not to be missed!

This charitable Lake District event sees live blues music played across a number of local venues in the lakeside town of Bowness.

Robin Bibi, Sparky and The Wailer and the James Oliver Band are amongst the 27 bands making up the three-day line up. There’s even a live performance from Grammy award-winning musician Alvin Youngblood.

Offering a truly memorable experience, a two-hour Blues Cruise steamer will depart onto Lake Windermere from Pier No.1 on the Saturday. Climb aboard and enjoy the delights of blues amongst the spectacular scenery of the heart of the National Park.

Keswick Mountain Festival 2023

^19th – 21^st may 2023

Renowned for its spectacular rolling landscape, it’s no surprise that visitors flock to the Lake District to attend the Keswick Mountain Festival.

A popular Lake District running event, the Keswick Mountain Festival is one for the fitness enthusiasts. Participate in trail running, open water swimming, cycling or hiking. If you’re up for the challenge, there’s even a number of triathlons to take part in.

In a unique twist, there’s an Adidas Terrex stand where you can test out some of their most popular trail-running trainers. And after competing in your favourite sport you can quench your thirst at the Durty Brewing, Moon & Sixpence or Canny Coffee stall.

If outdoor escapades aren’t your thing, there’s plenty of live music and on-site entertainment to enjoy. Catch a DJ set by Huey Morgan or a thrilling professional BMX display.

There’s space for pitching tents, along with pre-pitched bell tents, some with the added luxury of beds and beddings.

Tempted by one of the events on our action-packed list of what’s on in Cumbria in 2023? Book a stay in one of our wonderful Lake District cottages and place yourself right in the heart of the action!

And for more ways to spend your time in the Lakes, give our guide on 7 Lake District mountains that are worth the hike a read!