Vibrant Events in and Around the HarbourWhat's on

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As Britain’s Ocean City, Plymouth is a spectacular setting for world-class events, festivals, shows and all-round entertainment, many of which take place along the vibrant waterfront.

Sutton Harbour and the adjacent Barbican host a diverse range of events all year round from international sailing events to live music festivals. Popular events such as Plymouth Pirate Weekend, Plymouth Seafood Festival and the British Firework Championships attract huge crowds to the harbour for free, family-friendly fun in a stunning location.

Sutton Harbour and the adjacent Barbican host a diverse range of events all year round from national sailing events to live music festivals

As well as community events, venues in Sutton Harbour often host their own themed nights and exciting activities.

The National Marine Aquarium is renowned for its exciting and educational events exploring a different side to the underwater world which cater to both children and adults. HonkyTonk Wine Library is a popular destination along the harbourside and has regular evening and weekend events including comedy nights, dancing lessons and charity fundraisers. Their neighbours, Daisy’s Tea Room and Coffee Shop, also host a range of themed evenings and special afternoon tea events.

More event opportunities are on their way to the harbour. Sutton Harbour Group has applied for planning permission to install two large floating event pontoons in the harbour. The pontoons will be available to host a wide range of events on the water including live music concerts, exercise classes such as yoga on the water, floating film festivals and many more.

The harbour will also be a key destination during the year-long events programme for the Mayflower 400 commemorations, with Sutton Harbour being the home of the Mayflower Steps.

Due to the Covid 19 situation, most events have been rescheduled to 2021 and more details will be available here soon.

Seafood and Harbour Market

Plymouth Seafood Festival - online event

18th Sep - 20th Sep 2020
An exciting schedule of activity will take place online, celebrating Plymouth’s marine heritage and promoting sustainability. Seafood fans can watch along wherever they are by following the What’s On Plymouth Facebook page and there’s different content to look forward to each day. Viewers can expect cooking demonstrations from local restaurants including Rockfish, Supha’s and The Box Kitchen and Bar, as well as a handy masterclass in filleting fish from the experts at Plymouth Trawler Agents based at Plymouth Fisheries, England’s second largest fresh fish market located on Sutton Harbour’s East Quay.

Seafood & Harbour Market

19th Sep - 20th Sep 2020
This year we are proud to hold a scaled down version of the original Seafood Festival in partnership with Plymouth City Council. There will be socially-distanced pop-up seafood & fish stalls and street food vendors along the quayside at the Parade and Quay Square for all to enjoy from 10am – 5pm.
Newly branded entrance

Virtual Marina Open Day - via Facebook Live @2pm

 19th Sep 2020
Join the marina team for a glimpse inside our fantastic 5 gold anchor marina, take a tour with us, meet some of the crew and find out what makes Plymouth the best place to keep your yacht for your staycation with our guest from the Plymouth Tourist Information Centre. Make sure you ‘like’ and ‘follow’ our Facebook page to tune in for the event at 2pm and for more news and exclusive offers.

Sutton Harbour & the Barbican Christmas Lights Switch On -TBC

 22nd Nov 2020
TBC due to the current Covid-19 situation. A day of festive cheer along the harbour with Christmas activities, live performances and a chance to meet Santa himself. As the evening draws in the count down to the light switch-on begins.

Illuminate - TBC

 26th Nov - 29th Nov 2020
TBC due to the current Covid-19 situation. A glorious celebration of light with artistic installations, music and engaging fun for all the family. A spectacular sight.