Upcoming Events

Kendal Mountain Festival returns again from 15th-18th November. 'Kendal' sets the standard as an innovative, inclusive and creative celebration of everything outdoors. Thousands of outdoor enthusiasts plus media industry specialists, athletes, top brands & equipment manufacturers, artists, photographers, adventurers, explorers and inspirational speakers gather every year to share adventures and celebrate the very best in outdoor and adventure sports culture. At the heart of Kendal’s rich programme is the International Film Competition, attracting premières from around the world – it has been called the 'Oscars of outdoor filmmaking'. Over 100 films are screened (from 240+ entries) with twelve coveted awards up for grabs. However Kendal is not all extreme action - you can experience culture, drama, wildlife and environmental documentaries, plus the world's largest lecture programme covering outdoor content. Other highlights include art exhibitions, book events, including the coveted Boardman Tasker Prize for Mountain Literature and the ever popular 'Kendal Mountain Film Academy'. The 'Film Summit' (supported by Channel 4 TV) welcomes 200+ industry professionals to an insightful programme of debate and presentations. The packed 'Specialist Sessions' are now legendary and provide a core social gathering for the following categories – Climb, Bike, Snowsports, Endurance Sports, Underground (Cave), Adventure & Exploration and a new one for this year - Outdoor Swimming. They really are events within the event!

Hawkshead Christmas Fair returns 1st & 2nd December. Come & join in for a very special Christmas fair in the beautiful village of Hawkshead in the heart of the Lake District. Hawkshead village will be filled with stalls selling a fantastic array of Christmas craft, local produce, Christmas carols, live entertainment as well as a Santa's Grotto and lantern display.

8th - 9th December Windermere Christmas Markets Windermere's German themed Christmas market returns to the Lake District this festive season. The two day extravaganza will have a huge range of unique stalls selling some seasonal gifts that will make for perfect Christmas presents. Delicious food and drink will also be on offer as well as exciting street entertainment and even a special visit from Santa and his reindeers. The festive celebrations will be continuing into the night in some of Windermere’s brilliant bars and restaurants.

If you fancy festive food with extra sparkle there’s no need to head out of the county – come to Cockermouth this Christmas. Taste Cumbria Christmas takes place in Cockermouth on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 December 2018. There’ll be a festive food fair with all the sights and smells you’d expect at this fabulous time of year. Main Street will be packed with giant marquees selling food, drink and lots of pretty things for your Christmas table. There’ll be gifts galore, and food to eat on the spot, while the youngest foodie visitors will love the fairground and Christmas-themed arts and crafts. There will also be a beer and fizz tent adding a festive street party feel. Many of the independent businesses in Cockermouth will also join in the event, offering special offers, samples and competitions, making the town the perfect place to do all your Christmas shopping and soak up the festive atmosphere.