Cheltenham is renowned for its many festivals throughout the year. Whether its a day out at the races or enjoying some tasty treats at the food and drink festival there is something for everybody.
1st January and 24th January 2026
The last Cheltenham race day before the big Cheltenham Festival in March and there is always an excitable atmosphere.
Huge crowds gather to catch a glimpse of Festival contenders as they show the world what they're really made of!
14th - 16th February
The Gloucester Folk Trail is an annual celebration of traditional folk music, dance and arts.
Tuesday 10th - Friday 13th March @ Cheltenham Racecourse
This is the one they all long to win!!!!
11th - 20th September
Gloucester Cathedral tower tours and crypt access, Blackfriars Priory, Gloucester Docks. Organised locally by Gloucester Civic Trust.
11th and 12th July 2026
Its central feature is a spectacular re-enactment of the Battle of Tewkesbury on part of the site of the original battle of 1471.
19th June - 21sst June
Enjoy live music, free wine tasting talks, cheese tasting, artisan food producers, along with a myriad of demonstrations from some of the country’s leading chefs.
15th - 17th May
They introduce different aspects about the local area and visit places off the beaten track. Months of planning goes into this fantastic few days.
29th April - 4th May!
One of the country’s best-loved jazz festivals. Gregory Porter will return as Artistic curator and acclaimed American vocalist Lizz Wright will also take to the stage.
Montpellier Gardens Festival Village, it’s the hottest May Bank Holiday ticket around.
Monday 25th May
A long standing tradition, a race like no other, where participants throw themselves down Copper's hill after a wheel of Double Gloucester cheese.
2rd May - 26th May5
A spectacular event that brings together railway enthusiasts, families and adventure seekers. Held amidst the charming Cotswold countryside, this gala showcases the elegance and power of steam locomotives, offering a unique experience for visitors of all ages.
2nd June - 7th June
This annual event brings together the UK’s most respected scientists, favourite science communicators, writers, artists to talk about today’s hot topics.
11th – 20th September
Free open-house access to historic buildings, walks, talks & tours, organised by Tewkesbury Town Council.
3rd July - 19th July
A highlight of the summer and an unmissable opportunity for any cricket fan to experience the longest running cricket festival in the world.
11th - 20th September
Free open-house access to historic buildings, walks, talks & tours, organised by Cheltenham Civic Society
3rd July - 11th July
Performances and events by leading international artists, new talent and innovators inc. London Mozart Players, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra
Friday 17th July - Sunday 19th July
It's a three day event that will overwhelm your senses. From the roar of the jet engines ripping through the air to the cheer of the crowd line - it's an experience like no other!
Sunday 14th June
A unique opportunity to run a 5k, 10k, half marathon around the famous Cheltenham Racecourse.
17th - 19th July
Three-day event will overwhelm your senses, its an experience like no other!
25th May - 1st June
Cheltenham International Film Festival brings together filmmakers, celebrities, emerging talent to celebrate the best in the world cinema.
9th - 18th October
The world’s foremost writers, thinkers and performers will descend on our vibrant spa town, for a jam-packed ten days of fascinating discussion.
23rd and 24th October
Thundering hooves will return after a summer break to Cheltenham Racecourse.
