1. Events

What’s On in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley

The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is brimming with exciting festivals, seasonal wonders, and unforgettable experiences all year round. Whether you’re drawn to live music, adrenaline filled activities, creative arts, wildlife adventures, or stargazing under our famous dark skies, there’s always something to enjoy in our beautiful region.

What’s On in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley

The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is brimming with exciting festivals, seasonal wonders, and unforgettable experiences all year round. Whether you’re drawn to live music, adrenaline filled activities, creative arts, wildlife adventures, or stargazing under our famous dark skies, there’s always something to enjoy in our beautiful region.

    A Region Alive with Unique Events

    This is a place where creativity, culture, and tradition come together to create unforgettable experiences. Quirky celebrations like the Newent Onion Fair - with its famous onion-eating contest and family-friendly fun - capture the area’s unique charm, while live performances such as at the free Coleford Music Festival bring the community together with music and excitement.

    Foodies will love the opportunity to dive into local flavours at events like the Forest Food Showcase, featuring artisan producers and hands-on cooking classes. Why not try foraging in the forest or indulge in a cooking experience masterclass? There’s no better way to discover and connect with the region’s rich food heritage.

    Seasonal Highlights to Discover

    Every season brings its own unique charm to the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley:

    • Spring: In spring, the landscape bursts to life with the Golden Triangle of Daffodils and carpets of delicate snowdrops and bluebells.
    • Summer: Cool off with river adventures like kayaking, explore the forest by bike, or soak up the summer sunshine along scenic trails and waterways.
    • Autumn: Known as the UK’s best Leaf Peeping destination, it’s the perfect season for scenic walks and the annual Walking Festival.
    • Winter: Winter is the perfect time to experience the magic of the region’s Dark Skies.
    Family on a canoe on the River Wye enjoying a summer day.

    Get Closer to Nature

    Nature lovers will be captivated by the Forest of Dean’s rich and diverse wildlife. Guided Wildlife Safaris offer the chance to spot wild boar, deer, and even peregrine falcons soaring high above. For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, the region has an extensive network of walking and biking trails to discover.

    Wild Boar Humbugs in the Forest of Dean

    Creative Arts and Community Spirit

    The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley has a thriving arts scene, with annual events that showcase local creativity. Don’t miss the farOpen Arts Trail - explore open studios and discover the work of talented local artists during this much-anticipated yearly event. Enjoy lots of community arts events, from exhibitions to workshops, the area’s creative spirit is celebrated through a variety of activities for all ages. From pottery workshops to creative crafternoon teas, many events invite you to roll up your sleeves and join in, making memories while learning something new.

    Wye Valley Sculpture Garden

    Our Events

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    Dates:
    3rd May 2025 - 3rd May 2025

    Discover the beauty of nature through art at this award-winning gallery dedicated entirely to…

    Traditional Charcoal Burn at Dean Heritage Centre

    Dates:
    1st May 2025 - 5th May 2025

    Our Traditional Charcoal Burn event is back again for the Early May Bank Holiday.

    Cheltenham Jazz Festival

    Dates:
    30th Apr 2025 - 5th May 2025

    Get ready for one of the UK’s most vibrant music festivals! The Cheltenham Jazz Festival returns…

    Pottery Afternoon Tea Experience

    Dates:
    8th May 2025 - 8th May 2025

    A lovely Afternoon Tea themed experience where you will attempt throwing mugs, tea cups or saucers…

    Elvis Tribute Night Event
    Arts | History

    Elvis Tribute Night 2025

    Event Dates:
    9th May 2025 - 9th May 2025

    Enjoy an Elvis Tribute Night at Whitemead Forest Park.

    Wild garlic bulb from a foraging experience
    Arts | History

    Foraging with Ed Drewitt

    Event Dates:
    10th May 2025 - 10th May 2025

    Ed is a naturalist, broadcaster and wildlife detective. He will take you…

    Stargazing Experience in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley enjoying the best Dark Skies in the UK
    Arts | History

    Stargazing Safari

    Event Dates:
    10th May 2025 - 10th May 2025

    Enjoy an evening stargazing with Jim on the hill at Tudor Farmhouse Hotel.…

    Abba Tribute
    Arts | History

    Abba Tribute

    Event Dates:
    16th May 2025 - 16th May 2025

    Enjoy an Abba Tribute at Whitemead Forest Park.

    Foraging Making with Liz Knight
    Arts | History

    Foraging & Making with Liz Knight

    Event Dates:
    17th May 2025 - 17th May 2025

    Liz Knight has spent the last 10 years gathering and playing with wild…

    Pottery Afternoon Tea Experience
    Arts | History

    Pottery & Afternoon Tea Experience

    Event Dates:
    23rd May 2025 - 23rd May 2025

    A lovely Afternoon Tea themed experience where you will attempt throwing…

    Spring Food Festival
    Arts | History

    Spring Food Festival

    Event Dates:
    25th May 2025 - 25th May 2025

    Set in the heart of the scenic Forest of Dean, this family-friendly event…

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    Arts | History

    Hearts of Oak Beer Fest

    Event Dates:
    23rd May 2025 - 26th May 2025

    The Hearts of Oak's Beer Festival is back for a second time this year!…

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