Welcome to a season of vibrant summer events. Exeter's love for culture, creativity, community, and its overall vibe - historic charm meets contemporary flair - can be seen across the many events the area hosts. In this guide, we’ll review some of the city's most celebrated annual experiences you won’t want to miss.

Exeter Craft Festival

Held annually in early July, the Exeter Craft Festival has been a cultural cornerstone for nearly five decades. Taking place on the iconic Cathedral Green, the festival gathers over 100 artisans from across the South West. Visitors can explore high-quality pottery, jewellery, textiles, and metalwork while enjoying the lively atmosphere accompanied by jazz performances and food vendors. It’s an immersive event that showcases the region’s craftsmanship in a setting that speaks to Exeter’s deep historical roots. 

Family-Friendly Summer Activities with Read’s Revelation  

Throughout the school summer holidays, Exeter Cathedral Green hosts two family-friendly attractions that engage visitors with a blend of history and hands-on fun. Read’s Revelation is a short outdoor performance that recounts Herbert Read’s story of saving the cathedral’s medieval throne canopy. Alongside the play, interactive summer activities like crafts and workshops add to the liveliness and interaction. 

Exeter Summer Concert Series at the Cathedral

Between early July and early September, Exeter Cathedral fills with the resonant sounds of its summer organ concert series. Performances feature both rising international talents and local musicians, delivering a refined cultural experience under the Cathedral’s gothic arches. Among the performers are German organist Jan Liebermann and Exeter’s own Adam Field. With affordable tickets and a majestic setting, this series is a must for music lovers.

Exeter Independent Market

Throughout the summer, Cathedral Green transforms into a bustling marketplace with the Exeter Independent Market. Typically held on the last Saturday of July and August, this curated event offers artisan goods, hand-crafted design pieces, and live acoustic music. It’s a relaxed yet vibrant space where community, creativity, and commerce come together. 

Street Arts and Rum Festival in Exeter

Exeter’s summer events wouldn’t be complete without the Street Arts Festival and the Rum Festival. The Street Arts Festival held in July transforms the city centre into a stage for theatrical dance, graffiti art, and interactive performances. Later in the month, the Rum Festival takes over Exeter Castle with a celebration of spirits, cocktails, and street food. These events reflect the city’s flair for blending urban culture with history.

Outdoor Events and Heritage Activities on the Exeter Quay

Exeter’s Quay area offers a scenic complement to the city’s structured events. Each summer, it hosts night markets and dragon boat races, drawing both locals and tourists to the water’s edge. Paddle sports on the River Exe are a seasonal favourite, providing fun and leisure. Whether you’re picnicking by the river or trying your hand at kayaking, the Quay captures the casual joy of summer in Exeter.

Explore Coliving with Vonder

From music and markets to theatre and food festivals, Exeter summer events cater to all interests and age groups. Each gathering reveals a different facet of the city’s cultural identity, turning every visit into something memorable. Interested in living in Exeter? Check out Vonder’s Coliving Exeter locations to find the perfect fit for you. Our flats in Exeter offer a variety of amenities such as events, a gym, a rooftop terrace, and so much more. Seeking a different area in London? Vonder offers a variety of Coliving London locations all across the city. Reach out and discover hassle-free living - the Vonder way.