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.

Plymouth Seafood Festival - Online Event Only

12th Sep - 13th Sep 2020
Online Event Only due to the current Covid-19 situation. Showcasing the very best in locally caught seafood with live entertainment, food & cookery demonstrations, exciting activities and tasty dishes, celebrating Plymouth’s fantastic seafood trade.

Mayflower 400 Commemoration 2020 - Online Event Only

16th Sep 2020
Online Event Only due to the current Covid-19 situation. Join us online for the launch of the Mayflower AI – the world’s first autonomous ship, to commemorate 400 years since the original Mayflower set sail for America. Measuring 15m, this futuristic-looking research vessel will be utilised for marine conservation studies in the Atlantic in collaboration with the University of Plymouth.

British Firework Championships - CANCELLED

 12th Aug - 13th Aug 2020 | The Hoe, Plymouth
Unfortunately, this event has been cancelled until next year due to the current Covid-19 situation. The world-famous event takes place over Plymouth’s waterfront showcasing jaw-dropping firework displays across two nights. Six companies battle it out to be crowned the winner by hosting a 10 minute firework performance.

Ocean City Blues N Jazz Festival - CANCELLED

 14th Aug - 16th Aug 2020
Unfortunately, this event has been cancelled until next year due to the current Covid-19 situation.Some of the best blues and jazz performers in the South West take to the stage for a weekend of fantastic live music on the Barbican facing Sutton Harbour.

Sutton Harbour & the Barbican Christmas Lights Switch On

 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

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.