With a rich maritime history, a thriving cultural scene, and stunning waterfront views, Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City is gearing up to make 2025 its best yet, with an exciting programme of events kicking off in May.
Home to the UK’s first (and only) National Marine Park in Plymouth Sound and recently rated as the ‘best place for quality of life ’in this year’s Demos-PwC Good Growth for Cities Index*.
Plymouth’s blend of affordability, quality of life, beautiful surroundings and strong sense of community makes it a standout choice for visitors and residents alike.
The 2025 event calendar kicks off with the return of Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival on 11 May. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a casual runner, the festival encourages participants to soak up the vibrant atmosphere and breathtaking views of Britain’s Ocean City.
Following this, on 17-18 May the city sees the return of Pirates Weekend, when the Barbican and waterfront will transform into a hub of pirate-themed fun, offering music, entertainment, and interactive activities for families and visitors of all ages.
Shortly after, (From 30 May to 1 June) Flavour Fest will fill the city centre with a three-day showcase of local and global cuisine, live cooking demonstrations, and opportunities to sample the best of Plymouth’s food scene - more details and a full programme coming soon!
The summer months’ line-up includes the much-anticipated return of Plymouth Summer Sessions (12-15 June). Following the resounding success of its debut in 2024, which attracted thousands of music fans from across the UK, this year’s festival promises an even bigger and better experience.
Taking place on the iconic Plymouth Hoe, the four-day music extravaganza will feature an incredible line-up including legendary British band James, Snow Patrol, Pendulum and The Corrs.
2025 marks the 80th anniversary of World War II VE Day and, on 28 June, Armed Forces Day, in association with Babcock, will also honour the city’s proud military connections and community, while the Rehabilitation Triathlon (26 June) will highlight the resilience and determination of athletes in a display of strength and teamwork.
On 13 and 14 August, the skies over the city will play host to the British Firework Championships when the event will once again dazzle audiences with a two-night display of colour and spectacle against the background of the iconic Plymouth’s waterfront. This year’s edition will be looking to crown the ‘Champion of Champions’ with champion firework display companies going head-to-head to secure the top spot.
This autumn, Plymouth’s maritime heritage will take centre stage during Seafest, on 13 and 14 September. The event will celebrate the city’s deep connection to the ocean with sea-themed entertainment, delicious fresh seafood, and an array of fun-filled activities across the waterfront and Sutton Harbour.
Other events include Bonfire Night and the Remembrance Sunday Ceremony in November, bringing the community together for moments of both celebration and reflection.
The festive season will also see Plymouth once again transform into a winter wonderland, with the City Centre and The Barbican light switch on in November and Plymouth's festive Christmas Market - expected to bring 160,000 visitors to the city - spreading traditional festive cheer in its unique settings at the heart of Britain’s Ocean City. Watch out for more information on all winter activities and entertainment for all ages, with more available soon...
Plymouth City Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for events, Councillor Sally Haydon, said:
“Plymouth has a fantastic reputation for high-quality events – from the annual British Firework Championships and Armed Forces Day, to the culinary delights of Flavour Fest and Seafest Plymouth – which are all key attractions for residents and visitors alike.
“We work hard to deliver a strong programme of activity throughout the year and along with events staged by partners in the city, it creates an exciting cultural programme, which makes Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City, a great place to live as well as visit.”
Amanda Lumley, Chief Executive of Destination Plymouth, shared her thoughts for the year ahead:
“Our events calendar really solidifies Plymouth as a thriving cultural hotspot, and we look forward to welcoming visitors and residents alike to experience all that this dynamic city has to offer for the year ahead.”
For more details on Plymouth’s programme of events, check out the events calendar.