We’ve gathered a whopping 220 things to do in the Cotswolds throughout 2020
January
- NEW YEAR'S DAY AT THE RACES
Monday, January 1, 10.30am
Welcome in 2020 at this family-friendly racing event, hosting seven quality races. The first race is at 12.15pm; the last at 3.50pm. Tickets from £10. Cheltenham Racecourse, GL50 4SH, tel: 0844 579003, cheltenham.thejockeyclub.co.uk
- STROUD WASSAIL
Saturday, January 11
Marvellous mid-winter merriment, including mumming, Morris dancing and, of course, wassailing, with Revels in the evening from 7pm. Waes Hael! stroudwassail.com
- WILD WINTER WEEKEND
January 18-19
A celebration of the wildlife that calls WWT's Slimbridge reserve home for the winter. WWT Slimbridge, GL2 7BT,
tel: 01453 891223, wwt.org.uk
- BURNS NIGHT BLACK-TIE DINNER
Friday, January 24
Don your best tartan and raise a toast to Scotland's national bard at this exclusive four-course Burns Night event at Highgrove. Tickets: £105. highgrovegardens.com
- GLOUCESTER CAJUN AND ZYDECO FESTIVAL
January 24-26
The joint will be jumping when the festival returns to the Guildhall's sprung dancefloor for its 27th year. Weekend tickets £70. Gloucester Guildhall, Eastgate Street, Gloucester, GL1 1NS, tel: 01452 503050, gloucesterguildhall.co.uk
- FESTIVAL TRIALS DAY
January 25, 10.30am-5pm
Get some pointers as to which horses to back at The Festival in March. First race 12.40pm. Tickets from £10 per person. Cheltenham Racecourse, cheltenham.thejockeyclub.co.uk
- SNOWDROP WEEKENDS
January 25-March 1
Walk through the ten-acre garden at Colesbourne Park amid a sea of snowdrops, hellebores and other winter plants. GL53 9NP, www.colesbournegardens.org.uk
- COCKLEBARROW RACES
Sunday, January 26
Cocklebarrow point-to-point is the perfect way to rid those January blues. Admission from £15 per person on the gate. Aldsworth, GL54 3PP. www.cocklebarrowraces.com
- WEDDING FAIR
Sunday, Jan 26, 11am-3pm
With music, a magician, bubbles, food and more. Cotswold House Hotel & Spa, Chipping Campden.
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February
- CORAL WORLD GRAND PRIX SNOOKER
February 3-9
With extensive live television coverage and top prize of £100,000. Cheltenham Racecourse, worldsnooker.com
- EDUCATING RITA
February 4-8
An adaptation of Willy Russell's brilliant comedy, starring Stephen Tomkinson and Jessical Johnson. Oxford Playhouse, oxfordplayhouse.com
- BACKSTAGE AT THE BALLET
February 11-March 7
An exhibition of Colin Jones' remarkable ballet photography from the 1960s and 90s. The North Wall Arts Centre, Oxford, thenorthwall.com
- MARK THOMAS
Thursday, February 13
Combining his trademark mix of storytelling, stand-up, mischief and really, really well researched material. Didcot's Cornerstone, cornerstone-arts.org
- TWEEDY PRESENTS: THE MISSING COMPANY OF SHERLOCK HOLMES
February 16-23
Come help Tweedy find the clues and finish his show, or just come witness the hilarity that unfolds as he tries - either way it will be a mayhem filled mystery the likes of which the world has never seen! Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ, tel: 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk
- LIVE LAMBING
February 16-April 28
Visit the animal barn to see the thoroughly lovable lambs enter the world on Adam Henson's farm, interact with animals, take a wildlife walk and go crazy in the adventure playground. Cotswold Farm Park,
www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk
- EXHIBITION OF RUSSIAN ART
February 19-March 12
Paragon's third annual exhibition of contemporary Russian art, featuring 14 artists across a broad spectrum of genres and media. Paragon Gallery, Cheltenham, GL50 1SW, tel: 01242 233391, paragongallery.co.uk
- MOVING STORIES CAFÉ
February 21, 7-9pm
Relax and enjoy good yarns from hosts Chloë, Jane and Saffy… or bring your own to share! The Folk of Gloucester, GL1 2PG.
- GLOUCESTER FOLK TRAIL
February 21-23
A weekend of free live performances, including music, poetry, talks and traditional craft, all in a folky fashion. www.thecityofgloucester.co.uk
- A DAY OF GRACE
Saturday, February 22, 10.30am-4.30pm
Celebrating 50 years in the business, acclaimed actor Nickolas Grace will be exploring the characters he's brought to life, from Brideshead Revisited to Robin of Sherwood and everything in between. Movie screening at 6.30 pm. Cheltenham Playhouse, tel: 01242 522852, www.cheltplayhouse.org.uk
- THE GLOUCESTERSHIRE WEDDING SHOW
Sunday, February 23
With over 75 of the area's top wedding suppliers. Cheltenham Racecourse, thegloucestershireweddingshow.co.uk
- TEN TIMES TABLE
February 24-29
Robert Daws leads a star cast in the classic Alan Ayckbourn comedy. Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, everymantheatre.org.uk
- AN EVENING OF DECEPTION
February 27-29
Gloucestershire's sell-out magic show is back in Cheltenham with another mind-blowing production for 2020. The Irving Studio Theatre, tel: 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk
- THE WURZELS
Friday, February 28
Performing at the Cotswolds Winter Cider Festival. Bingham Hall, Cirencester,
tel: 01285 653313, binghamhall.co.uk
- ORCHESTRA OF THE SWAN
Friday, February 28
A trio of rousing 19th-century works, with a Beethoven masterpiece sandwiched between two deeply romantic Schumann offerings. Cheltenham Town Hall, GL50 1QA, tel: 0844 576 2210, cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk
- PHIL WANG
Friday, February 28, 7.30pm
Fresh from his sell-out Edinburgh shows, Wang is back with his new show on morality and the modern sense of self. Tickets £15. Gloucester Guildhall, GL1 1NS, tel: 01452 503050, gloucesterguildhall.co.uk
- COTSWOLD HUNT BALL
Saturday, February 29
Music, cocktails and dancing at this popular charity event. www.cotswoldhunt.org.uk
- POLAR PLUNGE
Saturday, February 29
Feeling brave… or possibly a little bit mad? It's all for a good cause, so that'll get you through the 50m swim in the unheated Sandford Parks Lido in Cheltenham. Honest. events.winstonswish.org/polarplunge
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March
- BEN HUR
March 4-April 18
Written by Patrick Barlow, based on the novel by General 'Lew' Wallace. Barn Theatre, Cirencester, tel: 01285 648255, barntheatre.org.uk
- CHIPPING NORTON MUSIC FESTIVAL
March 6-21
Making beautiful music in the Oxfordshire town since 1904. Tickets available from Jaffé & Neale bookshop or via. www.cnmf.org.uk
- CRAFTER'S DESTASH SALE
Saturday, March 7, 10am-4pm
Bag a bargain at this crafting sale, plus buy handmade goods, tea and cake. The Pavilion, Lechlade Memorial Hall, lechladecraftbarn.com
- CATCH THE TIDE
March 10-13, 8am-12 noon
Join WWT Slimbridge to see one of the highest tides of the year on the Severn Estuary, which should wash over the Dumbles and reach the seawall, all viewed from the comfort of the new Estuary Tower Hide. wwt.org.uk
- THE FESTIVAL
March 10-13
Culminating on Gold Cup Day on March 13, this Cotswold event surely needs no introduction. You have to experience it at least once! Cheltenham Racecourse, cheltenham.thejockeyclub.co.uk
- JOHN SHUTTLEWORTH'S BACK
Thursday, March 12
John returns to regale us with his songs, pausing only to reapply his deep heat rub! The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX, tel: 01684 295074, www.rosestheatre.org
- ST JOHN PASSION
Saturday, March 14, 7pm
Perhaps one of Bach's best choral masterpieces, performed by Gloucester Choral Society in their 175th Anniversary year. Gloucester Cathedral, tel: 01452 768928, gloucesterchoral.com
- BATH HALF MARATHON
Sunday, March 15
Go on, tick this one off your bucket list, and raise money for good causes, including NSPCC and Cancer Research UK. Tel: 01225 422255, bathhalf.co.uk
- SNOWSHILL MANOR RE-OPENS
Monday, March 16
Charles Paget Wade's 16th-century country house and all the eccentric treasures within will again be accessible to the lucky public. Snowshill, WR12 7JU, tel: 01386 852410, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/snowshill-manor-and-garden
- SHAKESPEARE WEEK
March 16-22
This year's theme is Art & Design, so get involved and produce your own portrait of the Bard. shakespeareweek.org.uk
- CRAFT FESTIVAL
March 20-22
Returning to Cheltenham Town Hall for the third year, Craft Festival Cheltenham (formerly Made by Hand) will showcase over 100 of the very best designer makers from across the UK, including the finest ceramics, wood, silver, jewellery, glass, textiles and more. Cheltenham Town Hall, www.craftfestival.co.uk/Cheltenham
- WORCESTER FESTIVAL CHORAL SOCIETY CONCERT
Saturday, March 21, 7.30pm
Featuring Vaughan Williams' A Sea Symphony. Worcester Cathedral, wfcs.online
- PAINSWICK MUSIC SOCIETY CONCERT
Saturday, March 21, 3pm
Featuring Tasmin Little on violin and pianist Piers Lane. St Mary's Church, Painswick, painswickmusicsoc.co.uk
- COTSWOLDS BROADWAY CIRCULAR
Saturday, March 21, 10am-4pm
A moderate nine-mile walk around stunning countryside. Snowshill Manor
- THE HABIT OF ART
March 23-28
The critically acclaimed and celebrated production of the masterly Alan Bennett comedy, starring Matthew Kelly and David Yelland. Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham tel: 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk
- OXFORD LITERARY FESTIVAL
March 27-April 5
Far too many speakers to mention here, of course, so do make sure you keep an eye on the website for updates… oxfordliteraryfestival.org
- AVON VALE RACES
Saturday, March 28
Come point-to-pointing for a fantastic day out with your family. Larkhill Racecourse, Wiltshire, avonvaleraces.com
- BEETHOVEN STRING QUARTET
Saturday, March 28, 11am
Beethoven's 16 String Quartets heard in a cycle form one of the greatest of all musical journeys. Bath Guildhall, bathfestivals.org.uk
- RACHMANINOV VESPERS
Saturday, March 28, 7.30pm
A performance of the beautiful All Night Vigil by Cheltenham Bach Choir at Tewkesbury Abbey. cheltbachchoir.com
- BEYOND COTSWOLD TRIATHLON
Sunday, March 29
Test your stamina at this compulsory wetsuit event… and don't forget a nice swimming cap. Cotswold Water Park, beyondevents.org.uk
- GLOUCESTER BREW WEEK
March 30-April 5
The first ever Brew Week will celebrate all things that are brewed, from a nice cup of tea to a nice cold ale, and everything in between. gloucesterbid.uk
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April
- CRAFTER'S RETREAT COTSWOLDS
April 3-5
A creative escape for crafters, with six tutors, in the market town of Lechlade-on-Thames. The Craft Barn, craftersretreats.co.uk
- ST JOHN PASSION
Saturday, April 4, 7.30pm
A spring concert performed by the Burford Singers. The Church of St John the Baptist, Burford, burfordsingers.org.uk
- CHELTENHAM WINE FESTIVAL
Saturday, April 4
Join wine lovers in the Regency splendour of Pittville Pump Room to explore and taste from over 250 exciting wines. Pittville Pump Room, GL52 3JE, cheltenhamwinefestival.com
- PAINSWICK MUSIC SOCIETY CONCERT
Saturday, April 4, 3pm
Featuring Orchestra of the Swan. St Mary's Church, Painswick, painswickmusicsoc.co.uk
- GIANT DUCKS FOR EASTER
April 4-19
Pick up an activity sheet and set off on a fun hunt which will take you all around the grounds at Slimbridge. While you are on the hunt, keep an eye out for ducklings, hand-feed some geese and listen to the daily otter talk. WWT Slimbridge, wwt.org.uk
- ANDOVERSFORD RACES
Sunday, April 5
For a quintessentially English afternoon's entertainment, you could do worse than this - the Cotswold point-to-point races event is an enduring fixture in the Gloucestershire sporting calendar and attracts some high profile visitors and competitors. andoversfordraces.co.uk
- WORCESTER FESTIVAL CHORAL SOCIETY WORKSHOP
Saturday, April 6, 9.30am-5pm
A chance to learn Elgar's The Music Makers in this one-day choral workshop. Worcester Cathedral, wfcs.online
- COUNTRYTASTIC
Thursday, April 9
Plenty of indoor and outdoor activities, featuring the Livestock Ring, Wag and Bone Ring, pig agility, sheep show, and guests including Adam Henson. Tel: 01684 584900, countrytastic.co.uk
- COLEFORD CARNIVAL OF TRANSPORT
Easter Monday, April 13
With plenty of vehicles, club displays and auto jumble, all in the heart of the Forest of Dean. Free entry. colefordcarnivaloftransport.co.uk
- THE APRIL MEETING
April 15 & 16
Cheltenham Racecourse's April Meeting gives you the chance to enjoy two weekday fixtures away from the hustle and bustle of The Festival crowds. cheltenham.thejockeyclub.co.uk
- CHELTENHAM POETRY FESTIVAL
April 16-25
Celebrating the 10th Festival with the theme 'WILD'. Rarr. cheltenhampoetryfest.co.uk
- RARE PLANT FAIR
Sunday, April 19, 11am-5pm
Stock up on those unusual plants, and raise funds for Cobalt. Entry £5 adults; children under 16 free. The Old Rectory, Quenington, GL7 5BN, rareplantfair.co.uk
- THE BIRTHDAY PARTY
April 21-25
Pinter's darkly comic masterpiece set in a dilapidated seaside boarding house. Oxford Playhouse, oxfordplayhouse.com
- JEEVES AND WOOSTER IN PERFECT NONSENSE
April 21-May 9
A co-production between The Barn Theatre and Chipping Norton Theatre, adapted from the works of PG Wodehouse. Barn Theatre, Cirencester, barntheatre.org.uk
- ASPARAFEST
April 23-June 21
Celebrating Worcestershire's best-loved export, every year this festival gets creative with the humble asparagus - from cooking classes to music acts, and the appearance of Gus, the Asparagus Man - it's wacky, but all in the best possible taste. Evesham, britishasparagusfestival.org
- CHIPPING NORTON LITERARY FESTIVAL
April 23-26
The fab Chip Lit Fest is four days of literary events for readers, writers and illustrators, young and old. Tel: 01608 642350 or visit www.chiplitfest.com to discover this year's line-up.
- FRESH: ART FAIR
April 24-26
Featuring 53 galleries, 600 artists, 6,000 works, an outdoor Sculpture Park, expert talks and artists demonstrating their skills. Cheltenham Racecourse, tel: 01242 224734, freshartfair.net
- PAINSWICK MUSIC SOCIETY CONCERT
Saturday, April 25, 3pm
Featuring baritone Roderick Williams with Iain Burnside on piano. St Mary's Church, Painswick, painswickmusicsoc.co.uk
- A FUN-FILLED FIGARO WEEKEND IN THE COTSWOLDS
April 25-26
If you're the proud owner of a sexy Nissan Figaro, there should only be one thing in your diary this weekend. Three Ways House Hotel, Mickleton, figaroownersclub.com
- BRITISH & MIDLAND CHAMPIONSHIPS
April 25-26
A two-day event featuring the opening rounds of both of the UK's premier series. Prescott Speed Hillclimb, prescott-hillclimb.com
- THE PSYCHOLOGY OF SERIAL KILLERS
Thursday, April 30, 7pm
During this talk, Jennifer Rees will reveal how serial killers are classified and debunk a few myths. £19. Gloucester Guildhall, GL1 1NS, tel: 01452 503050, gloucesterguildhall.co.uk
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May
- HUNTER CHASE EVENING
Friday, May 1
The final meeting of the season, plus BBC Radio 1's Greg James DJing in the evening. cheltenham.thejockeyclub.co.uk
- SELECT ART FESTIVAL
May 1-June 21
Exhibitors, talks, walks and workshops with work from leading and local artists. Venues in Stroud and Nailsworth. sitselect.org
- GCS 175th ANNIVERSARY CONCERT
Saturday, May 2, 7pm
Join Gloucester Choral Society at this very special concert as they celebrate their 175th Anniversary. Gloucester Cathedral, tel: 01452 768928, gloucesterchoral.com
- MARK STEEL: EVERY LITTLE THING'S GONNA BE ALRIGHT
Saturday, May 2
Mark Steel is back on the road with a new show that is guaranteed to make the world seem even more mental than it really is. Sundial Theatre, Cirencester, sundial-theatre.co.uk
- STRATFORD ART FAIR
May 2-3
An eclectic selection of over 250 artworks. Stratford-upon-Avon Town Hall, stratfordartfair.com
- SPRING JOUSTING TOURNAMENT
May 2-3
A weekend packed with action and entertainment, including falconry displays, archery, medieval blacksmith, puppet shows, jesters, and knights on horseback. www.blenheimpalace.com
- STROUD TRAIL MARATHON & HALF MARATHON
Sunday, May 3
A challenging mixture of beautiful local trails, Cotswold hills, towpaths, disused railway tracks and common land. Do your physical and mental health and favour and sign up! letsdothis.com
- CHIPPING CAMPDEN LITERATURE FESTIVAL
May 5-9
With a theme this year of 'Being Human', the programme will include fiction, memoir and biography, plus books by academics and practitioners. Tel: 01386 849018, campdenlitfest.co.uk
- CHELTENHAM JAZZ FESTIVAL
May 5-10
Always a class act, the Jazz Festival is hosted in a tented village in Cheltenham's Montpellier Gardens, and features a Big Top stage, Jazz Arena, and food, drink and market area. Quite simply, wonderful. cheltenhamfestivals.com/jazz
- CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL OF PERFORMING ARTS
May 5-16
Music, drama and dance combine at this, Cheltenham's oldest festival. cheltenhamfestivalofperformingarts.co.uk
- BADMINTON HORSE TRIALS
May 6-10
First held in 1949 and located at the seat of the Duke of Beaufort, Badminton is recognised as 'the world's premier three-day event' and really is the cream of the crop. Tel: 01454 218375, www.badminton-horse.co.uk
- RHS MALVERN SPRING FESTIVAL
May 7-10
Gardening, food, drink, shopping, and oh so much more. rhsmalvern.co.uk
- RANDWICK WAP
Saturday, May 9
This revived ancient festival sees a Wap Mayor and Queen carried through the village, followed by ceremonial cheeserolling. calendarcustoms.com
- PAINSWICK MUSIC SOCIETY CONCERT
Saturday, May 9, 3pm
Featuring Nash Ensemble. St Mary's Church, Painswick, painswickmusicsoc.co.uk
- SELECT TRAIL OPEN STUDIOS
May 9, 10, 16 & 17
In venues throughout the Stroud Valleys. sitselect.org
- STRATFORD-UPON-AVON LITERARY FESTIVAL
May 9-17
Celebrating its 13th year in 2020, the festival is an exciting mix of celebrity author events, workshops, debates and more.
stratfordliteraryfestival.co.uk
- CHIPPING CAMPDEN MUSIC FESTIVAL
May 9-23
Featuring 'great music in the glorious setting of St James' Church', this is widely recognised as one of the UK's leading festivals. Tel: 01386 849018, campdenmusicfestival.co.uk
- CLAY SHOOT & BLACK TIE DINNER
Thursday, May 14
To be held at Berkeley Castle, in aid of Nelson Trust. Call 01453 732074 or visit nelsontrust.com
- WINCHCOMBE WALKING FESTIVAL
May 15-17
As the first town in the Cotswolds to gain 'Walkers are Welcome' status, in 2009, Winchcombe is deservedly proud of the quality of its walks. Come and celebrate with them at this three-day festival. winchcombewelcomeswalkers.com/festival
- THE BATH FESTIVAL
May 15-24
This year including - gasp! - Queen of Punk Rock Patti Smith (see later listing). Tel: 01225 463362, bathfestivals.org.uk/the-bath-festival
- BURFORD LEVELLERS DAY
Saturday, May 16
Every May, the 17th-century radical political group are remembered at Burford. Expect debates, speeches, music, dancing and a grand parade. levellersday.wordpress.com
- MAY MEDIEVAL MARKET WEEKEND
Saturday, May 16
A weekend of medieval fun, in support of and to raise funds for The Battle of Evesham Medieval Festival. Free entry. For more information contact Mick@BattleofEvesham.co.uk or call in to The Almonry Museum, Evesham and ask for Ashley.
- NAILSWORTH FESTIVAL
May 16-23
As ever, the festival will be bringing 'something a little different to the cultural life of our community'. www.nailsworthfestival.org.uk
- ADAM BUXTON RAMBLES
Sunday, May 17, 7.30pm
The comedian rambles on topics from his new book. Oxford Playhouse, oxfordplayhouse.com
- PRISCILLA - QUEEN OF THE DESERT
May 18-23
The iconic musical comes to the Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham for the first time ever!
Tel: 01242 572573, everymantheatre.org.uk
- WINCHCOMBE FESTIVAL OF MUSIC AND ARTS
May 18-25
An eclectic art trail, a great range of music, workshops and talks, plus the ever-popular street fair on Bank Holiday Monday, May 25. winchcombefestival.co.uk
- ASCENSION DAY PARADE
Thursday, May 21, 1.30pm
Bisley Bluecoat Primary School's annual parade begins with a church service at 1.30pm, followed by the children carrying flowers down to the village wells. The tradition was started by the Rev Thomas Keble in 1863. bisleybluecoatcofeprimary.co.uk
- MISSION POSSIBLE
Opening May 21 (provisional)
Meet the nene - the world's rarest goose and learn how WWT founder, Sir Peter Scott brought this species back from the brink of extinction. WWT Slimbridge, wwt.org.uk
- THE MOZART QUESTION
May 21-June 27
Written by Michael Morpurgo and adapted for the stage by Vicki Berwick. Barn Theatre, Cirencester, barntheatre.org.uk
- PATTI SMITH AND BAND
Friday, May 22
The Queen of Punk rock, musician, artist, poet and activist is coming to Bath, and we're excited. The Forum, Bath, bathfestivals.org.uk
- LECHLADE FESTIVAL
May 22-24
Three-day award-winning family-friendly music festival in the beautiful market town of Lechlade-on-Thames, this year featuring the rather splendid Boomtown Rats. Coo! lechladefestival.co.uk
- GLOUCESTER SHANTY FESTIVAL
May 22-24
With a great line-up of both nationally and internationally-acclaimed acts. gloucestershantyfestival.com
- MAY BANK HOLIDAY COTSWOLD YOGA RETREAT
May 22-25
Book up for this and feel better already. Holycombe Holistic Retreat Centre, Shipston-on-Stour, yogakutir.com
- LA VIE EN BLEU INCORPORATING LA VITA ROSSA
May 23-24
A weekend celebrating all things French & Italian, with an eclectic mix of motor cars spanning the last 100 years plus entertainment off track to keep all the family entertained. Prescott Hill Climb, GL52 9RD, prescott-hillclimb.com
- BLENHEIM PALACE FOOD FESTIVAL
May 23-25
With regional food and drinks from 150 stallholders, including artisan bakers, craft brewers, gourmet burgers, international cuisine, traditional ice cream and hamdmade sweets, this is a great opportunity to get your foodie on at Blenheim. www.blenheimpalace.com
- LECHLADE VINTAGE RALLY & COUNTRY SHOW
May 23-25
Expect cars, motor cycles, commercial vehicles, miniature steam, fun fair, animals, stalls and much more. lechladecollectorsclub.co.uk
- RARE PLANT FAIR
Sunday, May 24, 11am-4pm
Buying your rare plants at Kingston Bagpuize House (OX13 5AX) will help raise funds for the wonderful SeeSaw and Riding for the Disabled. Entry £5 adults; children £3. rareplantfair.co.uk
- WARWICK FOOD FESTIVAL
Sunday, May 24
This celebration of the best local food and drink promises 'food, fun and frivolity'. Our three favourite 'f's. localfoodfestivals.co.uk/warwick
- MAY DAY FESTIVAL: A SPECIAL 70TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
Monday, May 25, 10am-5pm
A fun day out in beautiful surroundings, featuring family entertainment, live music, organic barbecue, bar, local crafts and free taster workshops. Hawkwood College, near Stroud, tel: 01453 759034, hawkwoodcollege.co.uk
- CHEESE-ROLLING
Monday, May 25
Participants risk life and limb as they chase the Double Gloucester down Cooper's Hill. Mad as a box of frogs. cheese-rolling.co.uk
- TETBURY WOOLSACK RACES
Monday, May 25
More of the same - completely bonkers, but delightfully so. www.tetburywoolsack.co.uk
- CHELTENHAM INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
May (TBC)
Six days dedicated to screen: in competition, feature films and film shorts of first- and second-time directors. The Festival will also pay homage to the legacy of cinema by screening the early works of critically acclaimed and commercially successful directors. www.cheltfilm.com
- ROBERT DOVER'S OLIMPICK GAMES
Friday, May 29
Dating from 1612, expect rustic sports, displays and other entertainment, but watch your shins. Chipping Campden, www.olimpickgames.co.uk
- WYCHWOOD FESTIVAL
May 29-31
Another glorious family-friendly music festival - this one's held in the grounds of Cheltenham Racecourse and features top live music acts, food tents, workshops, healing gardens and more. wychwoodfestival.com
- ST BRIAVELS BREAD AND CHEESE DOLE
Sunday, May 31 (Whit Sunday)
Every Whit Sunday, bread and cheese is blessed by St Briavels' vicar and thrown from the castle walls for the Dole Claimers to collect. Don't question tradition. st-briavels.com
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June
- BLEDINGTON MUSIC FESTIVAL
June 2-4
The 20th annual festival features Craig Ogden, Claire Bradshaw, Thomas Trotter and Catrin Finch. St Leonard's Church, bledingtonmusicfestival.co.uk
- CHELTENHAM SCIENCE FESTIVAL
June 2-7
Be inspired and entertained at Cheltenham's annual celebration of how the world works and how science helps us to understand it. Featuring more than 300 scientists, thinkers, comedians and writers. cheltenhamfestivals.com/science
- THE 14th CHELTENHAM CRAFT BEER AND CIDER FESTIVAL
Saturday, June 6
Does what it says on the tin. Raising funds for The Cheltenham Friends of the Samaritans. Old Patesians Rugby Club, bit.ly/2XrmvRM
- GLOUCESTERSHIRE FESTIVAL OF POLO
June 6-7
This two-day spectacle is a mainstay of the British Polo and South West's social calendar, featuring top-class polo, tented shopping village plus arena attractions and a traditional funfair. Beaufort Polo Club, beaufortpoloclub.com
- OPEN FARM SUNDAY
June 7
Discover at first hand what it means to be a farmer. Visit the website to find a farm near you: farmsunday.org
- CHELTENHAM RUNNING FESTIVAL
Sunday, June 7
This event offers you the unique opportunity to run a 5k, 10k or Half Marathon around Cheltenham Racecourse. thejockeyclub.co.uk/Cheltenham
- GLOUCESTER MUSIC FESTIVAL
June 10-14
World-class music in beautiful venues. gloucestermusicfestival.co.uk
- JAMES MORRISON & WILL YOUNG
Friday, June 12
Two great British singer/songwriters come to Westonbirt Arboretum. Tickets £49.50 (plus booking fee) from forestryengland.uk/music
- ROYAL THREE COUNTIES SHOW
June 12-14
England's largest livestock and equine event, with farming village, equine village, food hall and main arena entertainment. royalthreecounties.co.uk
- KEANE
Sunday, June 14
One of the most popular bands in Britain, as well as internationally, returns to Westonbirt Arboretum. Tickets £44.50 (plus booking fee) from forestryengland.uk/music
- RARE PLANT FAIR
June 14, 10am-4pm
Rare and unusual plants at Waterperry Gardens, Nr. Wheatley, Oxfordshire OX33 1JZ. Entry at a special reduced price of £7.50 for adults; children under 16 free. rareplantfair.co.uk
- DERREN BROWN: SHOWMAN
June 16-20
Mentalist, illusionist and author Derren Brown returns to the stage with a brand new show. Prepare to have your mind blown. New Theatre Oxford, tel: 0844 871 3020, www.atgtickets.com/oxford
- A TASTE OF ROYAL
Thursday, June 18
All the class of Royal Ascot in the rolling comfort of the Cotswolds. Cheltenham Racecourse, thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham
- NOCTURNE LIVE
June 18-21
A series of concerts featuring the talents of Lionel Richie and others, with the spectacular backdrop of Blenheim Palace's Great Court. nocturnelive.com
- CHELTENHAM BALLOON FIESTA
June 19-21
It's back for a second year, with balloons, funfair, live arena entertainment, fireworks, live music and more! Cheltenham Racecourse, cheltenhamballoonfiesta.co.uk
- CHELTENHAM FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL
June 19-21
Food theatre, talks, wine tastings and more at Cheltenham's Montpellier Gardens. garden-events.com
- PORSCHE AT PRESCOTT & MIDLAND CHAMPIONSHIP
June 20-21
Two one-day meetings: Saturday featuring a Porsche festival, while Sunday will be a round of the popular Midland Hillclimb Championship. prescott-hillclimb.com
- FAURÉ AND RUTTER REQUIEMS
Friday, June 26, 7.30pm
Featuring Cheltenham Bach Choir with soprano Hannah Davey and members of Regency Sinfonia. Pittville Pump Room, Cheltenham, cheltbachchoir.com
- BERKELEY SHOW
Sunday, June 28
A traditional agricultural show, held on the Castle Meadows, Berkeley, Gloucestershire. Tel: 07496 061780, www.berkeleyshow.co.uk
- THE SOUND OF MUSIC
June 23-27
One of our best-loved musicals, performed by The Cotswold Savoyards. Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ, tel: 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk
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July
- LIVING WETLAND THEATRE AND WATERSCAPES AVIARY
Opening summer 2020 (date TBC)
Activities within the theatre will include bird demonstrations, conservation presentations, summer science programmes, planned sessions for schools linked to the National Curriculum, talks and taster sessions as well as environmental debates. WWT Slimbridge, wwt.org.uk
- CHELTENHAM CRICKET FESTIVAL
Date TBC
Held in the idyllic setting of Cheltenham College, this is one of the most loved events in the Cotswold social calendar. www.gloscricket.co.uk
- CHELTENHAM MUSIC FESTIVAL
July 3-12
To celebrate its 75th Anniversary, the Festival will showcase some of the most exciting names of the music scene, and culminate with a very special concert featuring a newly-formed community choir performing as part of Cheltenham Music Festival's Community Opera. Exciting stuff! Tel: 01242 850270, cheltenhamfestivals.com/music
- LEDBURY POETRY FESTIVAL
July 3-12
Expect poets from across the globe, actors performing the great works, plus music, film and family events. Tel: 01531 636232, www.poetry-festival.co.uk
- ART IN THE CITY
Saturday, July 4
Featuring workshops, exhibitions and a en plein air competition. artinthecity.org.uk
- HANBURY COUNTRYSIDE SHOW
Saturday, July 4
Held since 1947, this fantastic summer day out in the Worcestershire countryside celebrates the best of farming, equestrianism and rural lifeTel: 07876 408814, hanburyshow.co.uk
- BATTLE PROMS PICNIC CONCERT
Saturday, July 4
An evening of classical music, carefully choreographed Spitfire and cavalry displays, dramatic cannon fire and firework finale, all in stunning 'Capability' Brown landscaped parkland. Simply breathtaking. Blenheim Palace, OX20 1PX, tel: 01432 355416, www.battleproms.com and www.blenheimpalace.com
- COTSWOLD LIFE FOOD & DRINK AWARDS
Monday, July 6
The Oscars of the Cotswold foodie world returns for its 18th year. The Centaur, Cheltenham Racecourse, foodawards.cotswoldlife.co.uk
- CORNBURY MUSIC FESTIVAL
July 10-12
The ultra-glam and super-friendly boutique music festival will again be featuring a plethora of top-notch performing artists. Book early, it's going to be a blast. Tel: 0844 249 1000, cornburyfestival.com
- TEWKESBURY MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL
July 11-12
With thousands of re-enactors, traders and entertainers, Tewkesbury is widely considered to be not only the largest but also the best free medieval gathering in Europe. www.tewkesburymedievalfestival.org
- COTSWOLD SHOW AND FOOD FESTIVAL
July 11-12
Bringing you two days of traditional rural skills, falconry, crafts, cookery demonstrations, music, arena attractions and much more in the glorious grounds of Cirencester Park, GL7 1XB. Tel: 01285 652007, cotswoldshow.co.uk
- LERNER AND LOEWE'S BRIGADOON
July 15-September 5
The timeless musical about the mysterious Scottish village which only appears for one day in every 100 years. Barn Theatre, Cirencester, barntheatre.org.uk
- ROYAL INTERNATIONAL AIR TATTOO
July 17-19
The 'world's greatest airshow' returns with an extravaganza of entertainment for all the family. Tel: 0800 107 1940, airtattoo.com
- THE 50th GUITING MUSIC FESTIVAL
July (TBC)
A delightful niche festival to enliven the Cotswolds' summer calendar. Guiting Power, guitingfestival.org
- CHALFEST
Saturday, July 18
Bringing the community of Chalford and beyond together with good music on four stages; kids', comedy and literary tents, cookery demos, bars, crafts and more chalfest.co.uk
- PRESCOTT BIKE FESTIVAL
July 18-19
Two amazing days in an idyllic setting, raising awareness and funds for the Blood Bike charities. Prescott Hill Climb, Gotherington, Cheltenham, GL52 9RD, prescottbikefestival.co.uk
- GLOUCESTER RHYTHM & BLUES FESTIVAL
July 25-August 2
A free festival featuring over 70 gigs across city centre venues, gloucesterblues.wordpress.com
- WOMAD FESTIVAL
July 23-26
The 'World of Music, Arts and Dance' was founded in 1980 by Peter Gabriel and other influential people in the music business, and has to be one of the most cosmopolitan festivals out there. Charlton Park, Malmesbury, womad.co.uk
- WARWICK FOLK FESTIVAL
July 23-26
This continues to be one of the most highly regarded folk events on the national and international scene. warwickfolkfestival.co.uk
- THREE CHOIRS FESTIVAL
July 25-August 1
This year it's the turn of Worcester to host this wonderful choral festival. Visit 3choirs.org for regular updates to the schedule.
- RARE PLANT FAIR
Sunday, July 26, 11am-4pm
Beautiful and unusual plants for sale, in support of Cobalt. Entry £5 adults; children under 16 free. Highnam Court, GL7 5BN, rareplantfair.co.uk
- WILDERNESS FESTIVAL
July 30-August 2
Featuring music, feasting, mystery, merriment, and the kind of magic that can only be found at this particular boutique festival. Wild and wonderful. Cornbury Park, Oxfordshire, wildernessfestival.com
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August
- MAGIC MILLIONS FESTIVAL OF BRITISH EVENTING
August 7-9
This established and world respected sporting event has been running for over 35 years, creating a must-do date in the diary for both competitors and general public alike. Gatcombe Park, festivalofbritisheventing.com
- RAGLEY HALL BATTLE PROMS PICNIC CONCERT
Saturday, August 8
The picturesque setting overlooking the lake provides a dramatic backdrop for the Spitfire aerial display, uplifting live music, WWI cavalry display, evening gun salute and firework spectacular. Tel: 01432 355416, battleproms.com and ragley.co.uk
- THE GIN TO MY TONIC FESTIVAL
Saturday, August 8
Indulge in a fantastic celebration of all things gin… oh, go on, then. Cheltenham Town Hall, thegintomytonic.com
- NAF HARTPURY HORSE TRIALS
August 12-16
The NAF Five-Star International Hartpury Horse Trials set in the lovely surroundings of Hartpury College. hartpuryhorsetrials.co.uk
- LAKEFEST
August 13-16
Celebrating its eighth year of musical magic. Eastnor Castle, lakefest.co.uk
- SKETCHING IN THE GARDEN
August 14-15
Artistic inspiration from Alison Vickery in the grounds of Hawkwood College, Stroud. hawkwoodcollege.co.uk
- WESTERN MOTORHOME SHOW
August 14-16
C&W-themed japes, including re-enactments and country music alongside a large exhibition area showcasing motorhomes. Three Counties Showground, tel: 01778 391123, westernmotorhomeshow.co.uk
- SEVERN BORE SAFARI
August 20-22
Watch as the Severn Bore covers the mudflats and the birds congregate for the high-tide roost. £21, to include full English breakfast. WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre, GL2 7BT, tel: 01453 891900, www.wwt.org.uk
- SOUL CIRCUS
August 21-23
Wellbeing meets music at this holistic yoga and arts festival. Elmore, Gloucestershire. www.soulcircus.yoga
- THE BIG FEASTIVAL
August 28-30
Music/foodie mash-up held on Alex James's Farm, Kingham, Oxfordshire, thebigfeastival.com
- GLOUCESTER RETRO FESTIVAL
Saturday, August 29
Get along to the gate streets and go time travelling to experience the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of the last century… turn left for the 1950s. www.thecityofgloucester.co.uk
- BISLEY FLOWER SHOW AND FETE
Saturday, August 29, 1pm
All the fun of a traditional flower show and village fete, with a marquee bursting with produce, a variety of stalls and lots of games for all the family.
- THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ
Saturday, August 29, 6.30pm
Wizard fun… and cider, too! Dunkerton's Cider Shop, near Cheltenham. This show is part of a Cotswolds tour; visit everymantheatre.org.uk for more dates.
- FOOTBALL IN THE RIVER
Bank Holiday Monday, August 31
Pure Cotswold madness. Two teams of six from Rovers Football Club play a 30-minute match in the River Windrush… and why not. Bourton-on-the-Water.
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September
- SALON PRIVÉ
September 3-6
Super cars, luxury cars, classic cars, mega cars… it could only be Salon Privé. Blenheim Palace, salonpriveconcours.com
- ANNUAL GOLF DAY
Friday, September 4
To be held at Minchinhampton Golf Club, in aid of Nelson Trust. nelsontrust.com
- MORETON-IN-MARSH SHOW
Saturday, September 5
Food, farming, fashion, fun? Yes. But oh so much more besides. moretonshow.co.uk
- GLOUCESTER HISTORY FESTIVAL
September 5-20
Offering a diverse programme of events, plus a rare chance to see inside some of the city's most remarkable buildings. gloucesterhistoryfestival.co.uk
- RARE PLANT FAIR
Sunday, September 6, 11am-4pm
Rare plant fair at Adwell House, Nr. Thame, OX9 7DQ. Entry £5 for adults; children under 16 free. Proportion of proceeds donated to Aspire Oxford. rareplantfair.co.uk
- CONTEMPORARY ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW
September 9-13
Based on the theme 'Lie of the Land', the show will draw on the particular location and vision of Rodmarton while also connecting with current issues around craft practice, sustainability and climate change. Rodmarton Manor.
- THE DRESSER
September 10-19
Ronald Harwood's evocative, affectionate and hilarious portrait of backstage life, starring Julian Clary and Matthew Kelly. Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ, tel: 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk
- HERITAGE OPEN DAYS
September 11-20
If you've ever wondered what goes on behind those ancient, locked doors, this nationwide series of events is just for you… and it's all free! www.heritageopendays.org.uk
- JANE AUSTEN FESTIVAL
September 11-20
A fabulous ten-day festival celebrating all things Austen, in the city of Bath. janeaustenfestivalbath.co.uk
- NEWENT ONION FAYRE
Saturday, September 12
Live music, street entertainment, crafts, fairground rides… and onions. Lots and lots of onions. www.newentonionfayre.org
- FRAMPTON COUNTRY FAIR
Sunday, September 13
Set on and around Frampton on Severn's famous green, the fair features main, heavy horse and countryside rings, as well as lakeside sports. framptoncountryfair.co.uk
- BLENHEIM PALACE HORSE TRIALS
September 17-20
Annual three-day eventing in the grounds of the Palace. blenheimhorse.co.uk
- THE MCCOYS
Friday, September 18
Join the stars of jump racing for these awards at Cheltenham Racecourse. thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham
- PAINSWICK CHURCH CLYPPING AND PUPPY DOG PIE
Sunday, September 20
Parishioners of St Mary's join hands around the church exterior, and dance around singing their Clypping Hymn… but not before the 'Puppy Dog' pie is served up. Marvellous. stmaryspainswick.org.uk
- THE DOWAGER'S OYSTER
September 23-26
British comedy legend Dr Evadne Hinge is coming out of retirement to appear in this musical romp as part of The Playhouse's 75th Anniversary celebrations. Cheltenham Playhouse, tel: 01242 522852, www.cheltplayhouse.org.uk
- THE TURN OF THE SCREW
September 23-October 31
Give yourself goosebumps with this adaptation of Henry James's 1898 horror novella. Barn Theatre, Cirencester, barntheatre.org.uk
- HETTY FEATHER
Opens September 24
Jacqueline Wilson's tale is brought thrillingly to life on stage. Playbox Theatre, Warwick, tel: 01926 419555, playboxtheatre.com
- BATH CHILDREN'S LITERATURE FESTIVAL
September 25-October 4
Europe's largest dedicated children's literature festival. Tel: 01225 463362, bathfestivals.org.uk
- RHS MALVERN AUTUMN SHOW
September 26-27
A glorious celebration of autumn colour at this RHS event. malvernautumn.co.uk
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October
- GLOUCESTER COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL
October 2-4
Pull on your cowboy boots and enjoy three days of Country 'n' Western fun. gloucestercountrymusicfestival.co.uk
- THE TIMES AND THE SUNDAY TIMES CHELTENHAM LITERATURE FESTIVAL
October 2-11
Ten glorious days of literary discussion, poetry slams, workshops, pop-up performances, nights out and readings. Really, you just gotta be there. cheltenhamfestivals.com
- AUTUMN FESTIVAL OF SPEED
October 3-4
An eclectic celebration of the biggest and best automotive metal on the planet. Prescott Speed Hill Climb, prescott-hillclimb.com
- NATIONAL PRIDE CONFERENCE 2020
October 9-11
Bring out the rainbow banners! Pride organisers from all over the country will descend on Cheltenham Racecourse for the 2020 UK Pride Organisers' Network (UKPON) AGM and Conference. thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham
- AUTUMN QUILT FESTIVAL
October 16-18
A selection of modern and traditional quilts on display, plus exhibitors selling patchwork and quilting supplies. Three Counties Showground, threecounties.co.uk
- JOHN LYDON: I COULD BE WRONG, I COULD BE RIGHT
Saturday, October 17
John Lydon - aka Johnny Rotten - changed the face of music and sparked a cultural revolution. To coincide with the publication of his new book, Lydon will talk about how he sees life, along with his unique and extraordinary career, and take audience questions during a pyrotechnic, one-off tour. Tickets £30-£75. Cheltenham Town Hall, cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk
- THE SHOWCASE
October (TBC)
The home of jump racing kicks off the season in style with this exciting two-day meeting. thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham
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November
- THE CHRISTMAS FAIR IN THE COTSWOLDS
November 9-11
Meet designers and purchase direct from the creative source at this fabulous buying fair, all in aid of Cotswold charity WellChild. Daylesford, cotswoldfair.com
- VINTAGE FASHION SALE
Tuesday, November 3
A sale of vintage fashion, textiles, and 20th-century art & design. The Cotswold Auction Company, Chapel Walk, Cheltenham, cotswoldauction.co.uk
- STROUD BOOK FESTIVAL
November (TBC)
The very best in new writing from some of the finest novelists, non-fiction writers, poets, children's writers and storytellers in Gloucestershire and beyond. stroudbookfestival.org.uk
- WINTER CRAFTS
December 5-6 and 12-13
Choose from calligraphy, printmaking, soap making, painting, willow weaving, leatherwork and more. Hawkwood College, Stroud, hawkwoodcollege.co.uk
- GLOUCESTER LANTERN PROCESSION
November (TBC)
Join the magical illuminated parade through the city's streets. www.thecityofgloucester.co.uk
- WORCESTER VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS FAYRE
December 3-6
Chestnuts, mulled wine, traditional rides, stalls… all you need to celebrate Christmas, Victorian-style. visit worcesterchristmasfayre.co.uk
- MOZART MASS IN C
Saturday, November 14, 7.30pm
Cheltenham Bach Choir with the Musical and Amicable Society Baroque Orchestra. Cheltenham Town Hall, cheltbachchoir.com
- THE BROTHERS GRIMM PRESENT CINDERELLA
November 18-January 9, 2021
This new adaptation of the classic tale by Alan Pollock is sure to induce festive spirit. Barn Theatre, Cirencester, barntheatre.org.uk
- JACK AND THE BEANSTALK
November 27-January 10, 2021
Book early for this GIANT adventure! The Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, tel: 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk
- MO GILLIGAN
Saturday, November 28
Join the comedian fresh from his smash-hit global Netflix release. New Theatre, Oxford, atgtickets.com/oxford
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December
- TOY AUCTION
December 1 & 2
A sale of toys, dolls, models and other antiques. The Cotswold Auction Company, Cirencester,cotswoldauction.co.uk
- THE INTERNATIONAL
December (TBC)
With the festive season in full swing, celebrate at the races with friends and family. Cheltenham Racecourse, www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham
- SPECIAL CHRISTMAS SALE
Tuesday, December 15, 10am
A festive sale of silver, jewellery and antiques. The Cotswold Auction Company, Chapel Walk, Cheltenham, cotswoldauction.co.uk
- A CHRISTMAS CAROL
Opens December 18
A lavish, snow-filled version of Dickens' Christmas story. Playbox Theatre, Warwick, tel: 01926 419555, playboxtheatre.com
- THE CHELTENHAM BACH CHOIR CHRISTMAS CRACKER
Monday, December 21, 7.30pm
With the Flowers Brass Band and the Beauregard Youth Choir. Cheltenham Town Hall, cheltbachchoir.com
- CHORAL EVENSONG
Thursday, December 24, 5.30pm
Escape the Christmas Day preparations for a while at this heart-warming celebration. Free admission. gloucestercathedral.org.uk
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