A trip to Ribble Valley is far more than wandering through cobblestone streets and browsing through antique shops. This idyllic location in the Lancashire countryside offers a wide range of fantastic festivals and events for all to enjoy. The fun at Ribble Valley lasts all year long with a packed programme of music, arts and creativity that appeals to the whole family. If you are planning a trip to this corner of England, this article will guide you through the must-see festivals and events in the Ribble Valley to help you plan your visit.
Cloudspotting festival
One of the most well-known Ribble Valley festivals, Cloudspotting Festival, has been given awards for its excellent array of acts and fantastic family atmosphere. The festival has a whole host of activities on offer from music to yoga and welcomes all ages. It makes for an excellent day out with family and friends and is guaranteed to keep you entertained all day long. The music at Cloudspotting is mainly folk music, played by local artists.
Ribble Valley Jazz and Blues
The Ribble Valley Jazz and Blues is the place to be if you love all things Jazz, Blues and Soul. The organisation hosts a range of events throughout the year in Ribble Valley pubs, fields and halls. They also have their own radio show on Ribble FM that plays all of the best hits from the genre. Popular acts hosted by the Jazz and Blues include The Arthur Geldard Quartet and The Eric Ainsworth Trio. The best way to find a Ribble Valley Jazz and Blues event during your visit is to simply search ‘festivals near me’ into Google.
Ribble Valley Music Festival
The Ribble Valley Music Festival is an annual event that draws in crowds from all around the country. This festival runs throughout the year, hosting various concerts and performances at a number of locations around the town. The festival aims to celebrate your talent and all proceeds are put towards looking after local heritage.
Ribble Valley Scooter Rally
The Ribble Valley Scooter Rally is an event for any motorheads out there! The rally was originally called the Ribble Valley Mod Weekender. It offers live music, food and drink and a procession of 500 scooters through the streets of the town. The Ribble Valley Scooter Rally is the perfect place to try some Ribble Valley gin and enjoy local talent.
Events at The Grand
The Grand is an 1870s era auditorium that has been transformed into a contemporary entertainment venue. Here, you will find a number of fantastic events hosted throughout the year including classical music concerts, theatre performances, classes, live bands and tribute acts. There is something for the whole family at The Grand in Ribble Valley.
Royal Lancashire Show
The Royal Lancashire Show takes place in July and showcases just about everything that agriculture has to offer. The show is a family event that offers a fantastic range of entertainment, shopping and food for everyone to enjoy. You could sit back and enjoy the showjumping events, take in the wonderful livestock displays or indulge yourself in local food and drink. The event also attracts a range of music acts that will keep you entertained all day. The Royal Lancashire Show is the perfect event for anyone who loves agriculture.
Middle Earth Beer and Music Festival
If you are someone who loves to drink, the Middle Earth Beer and Music festival certainly won’t disappoint. Here, you will find over 50 delicious cask, keg and craft beers on offer as well as live performances from local bands and musicians. On-site camping is available for tourists as well as an array of delicious eateries and other amenities.
The entire festival has a middle earth theme including a Hobbit craft market, which celebrates the links between Lord of The Rings author, JRR Tolkien, and Ribble Valley. The festival is located in Ribble’s own Waddow Hall- the towns very own middle earth!
Clitheroe Food Festival
The Clitheroe food festival is an annual event that showcases the hard work and dedication of local food and drink producers in Ribble Valley. The festival takes place in Ribble Valley town centre and hosts the biggest buffet of street food that you will have ever seen! This festival will entice all of your senses and leave you spoilt for choice with such a variety of food and drink on offer. Local food producers are invited to set up stalls at the event and give samples to attendees. This is the perfect place to get a real taste for the area and try something new!
There are plenty of fantastic festivals and events to choose from when visiting Ribble Valley. The easiest way to find events that are happening during your stay is to search ‘events near me’ on Google. Most of the events will have their own website or Facebook page that will give you more information about what is available and how to book your tickets.
Book your stay
The Ribble Valley’s reputation for sustainable tourism is excellent and more and more holidaymakers are choosing this beautiful location to relax and unwind in, without harming the planet. Contact us today to book your escape to the Ribble Valley and make a better choice for the environment and yourself!