Roll up, roll up; here’s your Barefoot guide to Norfolk’s best carnivals, festivals, and events. From seaside carnivals and stately home fairs to world-class music and eclectic arts, Norfolk’s 2026 calendar is packed with unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or seeking a peaceful escape, there’s something to delight everyone. Here’s our round-up of the very best events to enjoy this year.

Sandringham Living Heritage Food, Craft & Wood Festival

Saturday 2nd – Monday 4th May 2026

Set in the beautiful grounds of the Sandringham Estate, this annual festival is a favourite for locals and visitors alike. Indulge in Norfolk’s finest food and drink, watch local artisans at work, and pick up unique handmade jewellery, ceramics, textiles, and more. Jazz bands and solo performers serenade the festival-goers, making it a perfect day out for the whole family.

Stay nearby at one of our dog friendly luxury properties in Snettisham.

Sandringham Flower Show

Wednesday 22nd – Sunday 26th July 2026

Discover a brand‑new highlight in Norfolk’s summer calendar – the RHS Sandringham Flower Show, set in the glorious grounds of the Sandringham Estate. This exciting debut from the Royal Horticultural Society showcases stunning show gardens, coastal‑inspired designs and creative floral installations that celebrate gardening at its very best.

Wander among award‑winning gardens, glean design ideas from Long Borders and Grow Forward Gardens that explore sustainability, and enjoy expert talks, trails, competitions and live music throughout the day. There’s a welcoming festival feel for all ages, with family‑friendly activities like fruit and summer vegetable competitions, plus plenty of delicious food and drink to savour.

This year’s show also features a special collaboration garden designed in consultation with His Majesty The King, reflecting his passion for horticulture and local Norfolk materials – a lovely blend of tradition and innovation.

Children under 16 enter free, and with inspiring displays and garden ideas around every corner, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy summer in Norfolk.

Stay nearby at one of luxury holiday cottages in Snettisham, Ringstead or Hunstanton.

Holt Art Festival

July 2026 – dates TBC

The Holt Festival is a much-loved highlight of summer in North Norfolk. Now celebrating its 15th year, the Festival is proudly independent, made possible by the generous support of it’s Sponsors, Ambassadors, Friends and attendies. That support doesn’t just keep the Festival going – it allows it to flourish.

Each July, Holt comes alive with a thoughtfully curated programme of exceptional and eclectic arts. From outstanding musicians and performers to acclaimed comedy, intimate literary events and inspiring talks, the Festival offers something to surprise and delight at every turn. Our art programme is at the heart of it all, featuring a significant loan exhibition, art prize competitions and creative projects with local schools.

Deeply rooted in the Holt community, the Festival takes place entirely within the town, making use of beautiful and characterful venues such as St Andrew’s Church and Gresham’s School. It’s a celebration that feels both special and distinctly local.Set in the pretty Georgian town of Holt this annual festival is a feast for all the senses. Food, drink, theatre, comedy, music, fine art, and politics pop up throughout the town in various venues in a celebration of the Arts.  

Looking to stay near the festival? Check out Swanton Cottage, a pretty country house tucked away in its own secluded gardens – straight from the pages of an Enid Blyton novel. Alternatively book into the ultimate big and bold retreat in Cley-Next-The-Sea – Knotting Hill Farmhouse.

Wells Carnival

July 31st to August 9th, 2026

Held in Wells-next-the-Sea, this annual award-winning summer event dating back to 1926, now boasts a week-long festival packed full of family fun and adventure. We’re talking parades, fancy dress, live music, family-friendly games, craft markets, competitions, food, drinks and much much more. 

Search our family friendly collection of luxury self-catering properties in Wells-Next-The-Sea and discover the magic of Wells Carnival – one of Norfolk’s best carnivals, festivals, and events!

Blickling Classic Ibiza Evening 

Saturday 1st August 2026

Set amidst the breathtaking grounds of Blickling Estate, Classic Ibiza is a celebration of music, joy and togetherness. Here, people of all ages come together to soak up the timeless energy of house, in a night that feels both epic and effortlessly relaxed. As the sun dips below the horizon, the mood shifts from the chilled vibes of an Ibizan-style lounge to a magical alfresco nightclub experience under the open sky.

In 2026, Classic Ibiza returns for its 11th year, ready to elevate stately house music to new heights. With the Urban Soul Orchestra (USO) led by conductor Stephen Hussey, expect a thrilling journey through the most iconic dance anthems, brought vividly to life with an extraordinary laser and light show.

Stay tuned for full details – and get ready to lose yourself in the music, the setting, and a night that promises to be unforgettable.

Discover your perfect Barefoot self catering holiday cottage in North or South Creake.

Houghton Festival 

6th – 9th August 2026

Founded by the kaleidoscopic artistic mind of legendary Fabric DJ Craig Richards, this symphony of visual arts & music erupts annually on the grounds of Houghton Hall. Houghton festival returns with its four-day sonic pilgrimage of global underground electronic music, arts, nature and craftmanship.

Now in its tenth year, the festival has curated a diverse tapestry of music, this year’s offering showcases the breadth and depth of Richard’s musical outlook, proudly championing equality, presenting the unknown alongside the established.

Explore our collection of holiday cottages in nearby Docking.

North Norfolk Food and Drink Festival

Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th September 2026

Nestled in the walled garden at Holkham Hall this weekend event is the perfect festival for food and drink lovers. Immerse yourself in the fabulous growers, producers, suppliers, and artisans that Norfolk’s famous for. Pick up tips and recipe ideas from the chef demos and don’t forget your favourite shopper to stock up on tasty treats to take home!

Book into one of our self-catering cottages in Wells-Next-The-Sea only 5 miles from Holkham.

Brancaster Staithe Sea Shanty Festival 

Friday, September 11th to Sunday, September 13th, 2026

The annual Sea Shanty festival brings together shanty groups from all over the country showcasing traditional sea shanty songs. Enjoy food, drinks, and live music across venues in Brancaster Staithe including The Jolly Sailors pub, The White Horse, Brancaster Staithe sailing club, Village Halls and St Mary’s Church.  

Discover our luxury collection of self-catering holiday cottages in Brancaster Staithe.

Deepdale Festival

Thursday 24th to Sunday 27th September 2026

There’s something beautifully freeing about a weekend of music with bare feet in the grass, and Deepdale Festival captures that spirit perfectly. Set across three intimate stages – the Brick Barn, Orchard Stage and Courtyard – this small but perfectly formed festival with a true Heart of Folk returns for its 8th year. With more than 40 superb acts already lining up, Chris and the team have once again curated a standout programme. Expect a brilliant blend of folk, roots and indie energy from the likes of Hope & Social, Noble Jacks, Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman, Sam Kelly & The Lost Boys, The Shackleton Trio, 3 Daft Monkeys, Blackbeard’s Tea Party, Christina Alden & Alex Patterson, Floral Image, Honey & The Bear, Neev, Wilswood Buoys, Brian Stone & The Masters of None, Detta Kenzie, Langkamer and The Rabbitts, with more still to come. Limited day tickets are now available, the programme is partially announced, and accommodation can be booked in nearby Brancaster or Brancaster Staithe – so gather your festival family and join Deepdale for a joy-filled, music-soaked weekend by the coast.

The Burnhams Market

March 28th , April 25th, May 23rd, June 27th, July 25th, August 22nd and September 19th

Nestled in the heart of Burnham Market, The Burnhams Market is a highlight of the local events calendar, bringing together the very best of Norfolk’s independent makers and producers. Held monthly on selected Saturdays at St Mary’s Westgate Church, this vibrant community market showcases a carefully curated collection of stalls featuring everything from artisan food and handmade ceramics to jewellery, flowers and homeware. Visitors can meet the creators behind the products, soak up the friendly atmosphere and enjoy a relaxed morning browsing unique, high-quality goods. With free entry, a welcoming setting and seasonal dates running from spring through to early autumn, it’s the perfect way to experience the creativity and charm of North Norfolk during your stay with Barefoot Retreats.

Saint Mary’s Westgate Church, Burnham Market PE31 8DH open from 9.30am to 2.30pm

Last updated March 2026