In Norfolk, spring starts to gain momentum in April with more flowers and leaves starting to come back on the trees. Tourism in the area is just starting to pick up so it’s definitely still possible to avoid the summer crowds. In this post, we will share the best events in Norfolk in April 2023.
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April 2023 Norfolk Events
If you are looking for things to do in Norfolk in April, you have come to the right place. Here you will find events happening in April 2023 in Norfolk. It includes some events that are family-friendly and/or free.
In 2023, Easter falls in April, so also check up our roundup of Easter events in Norfolk.
Remember there can always be last minute changes, so it’s always a good idea to double-check the details with the organization hosting the event.
*Details for some of the April 2023 events have not been announced. Events with TBC – meaning to be confirmed – next to them means they happened last year but have not been confirmed for this year. I will update the post as the information becomes available.
The Last Voyage of the Gloucester at Norwich Castle
When: 25 February – 10 September
In this major exhibition, you will learn how brothers Julian and Lincoln Barnwell discovered the wreck of the Gloucester which ran aground in heavy seas off the coast of Great Yarmouth more than 300 years ago and see some of the fascinating objects found at the wrecksite.
The exhibition is included with regular admission to Norwich Castle. It is expected to be popular so you are encouraged to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Read our review of The Last Voyage of the Gloucester at Norwich Castle to learn more.
Visible: Norfolk’s Neurodiversity Festival 1
When: 31 March – 1 April
The Forum in Norwich will host Nansa’s (Norfolk and Norwich SEND Association) first Neurodiversity Festival (sponsored by Loveday and Partners). There will be experts leading discussions and workshops along with a range of information stands facilitated by local agencies, charities, and projects, offering services for and/or championing for those with neurodivergent conditions.
Get more information here.
Sheringham Viking Festival
When: 1 April
This free event is typically held in February but was moved to April in 2022 due to Covid uncertainty. It will celebrate the history of Sheringham and it’s Viking heritage.
Traditionally, they have stalls, axe throwing, and a battle display towards the end of the day. Then to wrap things up there will be a parade through town with torches and a Viking boat will be burned on the beach.
More details here.
Norfolk Artisan Fair in Spring
When: 1 – 2 April
See over 100 local food, drink, and craft stands at Fakenham Racecourse. Bought to you by the same people who used to do the Christmas Fair at Holt Hall.
Get tickets and more information here.
Hunstanton Soap Box Derby
When: 2 April
Nearly 50 home-built karts took part in the last Soap Box Derby held in Hunstanton in 2019. Now that the pandemic has passed, the borough council is bringing back the event. Easter-themed karts will race down the streets of Hunstanton starting on Greevegate then twisting and turning their way to Beach Terrace Road.
Get more information here.
Russell’s International Circus in Sheringham
When: 3 – 17 April
Get ready for an exciting experience as Russell’s International Circus arrives in Sheringham to showcase their brand new show. Under a classic big-top tent, you’ll witness an amazing array of talents from an all-human cast, including thrilling illusions, hilarious laughs, and daring stunts. From juggling and clowning to acrobatics, the performers will leave you in awe. Plus, you’ll get to see some incredible acts all the way from the Hungarian State Circus and Morocco!
Get discounted tickets on Groupon here.
Spring Art Show at the Forum
When: 5 – 9 April
The annual Spring Art Show brings together an eclectic mix of artists living in the East of England and working in a range of mediums and styles. The diverse range of original artworks and prints will all be available to buy.
Get more information here.
Oyster Festival at Yalm
When: 7 – 10 April
If you love oysters, or are curious to try them, then you definitely don’t want to miss the Oyster Festival at Yalm!
When you arrive, you’ll find an oyster bar located in the hall, serving up some of the freshest and most delicious oysters around. And if you’re feeling extra hungry, the talented kitchen teams will be creating oyster specials in addition to their regular menus.
While you enjoy your meal, you can also take in some live jazz or dance the night away to the beats of the featured DJs! And don’t forget to stop by the bar for a selection of wine pairings, refreshing cocktails, and craft beers.
Get more information here.
Trowse 10K
When: 9 April
This popular 10K road race, traditionally held on Easter Sunday, is based at the Norfolk Snowsports Club in Whitlingham Lane, Trowse just outside Norwich. You run beside Whitlingham Broad before following a two-lap route along quiet roads through the heart of Trowse and close to Whitlingham Hall.
Get more information here.
The Bible Exhibition at the Forum
When: 10 -14 April
See the UK’s largest touring exhibition of ancient and modern Bibles hosted by Norwich Christadelphians. Learn more about how this remarkable book has survived through the ages, and how it has been translated into many languages.
The exhibition and audio guide are free.
Get more information here.
Great Yarmouth Easter Fair
When: 13 – 16 April
It may be a few days after Easter, but Great Yarmouth is celebrating with thrill rides plus some that are child-friendly, delicious treats, and more. It takes place in the Market Place, Fullers Hill, Brewery Plain and Church Plain.
Get more details here.
Spring Steam Gala at North Norfolk Railway
When: 14 – 16 April
The annual Spring Steam Gala is back with five or more steam locomotives running on an intensive timetable, there will be over 9 hours of on track entertainment each day. Refreshments will be available.
Get more information here.
Charity Dance
When: 15 April
The Sprowston Youth Engagement Project (SYEP) is organizing an 80s dance and charity auction at the Diamond Centre to raise funds for SYEP and @ambersarmycio. The best part? All the money raised will go towards these projects, with SYEP’s share being used directly for activities that benefit young people.
Not only will you get to enjoy live performances and delicious food, but you’ll also be contributing towards a great cause. Tickets are priced at just £35, so it’s an affordable way to support these projects while having a great time.
Get more information here.
OLL Video Games 23 Convention
When: 15 – 16 April
OLL ’23 will be celebrating the biggest and best of the region’s gaming scene along with the region’s largest exhibition for indie game studios, curated by Debug. There will be thousand of games to play throughout the weekend, plus tournaments, prizes, food & drink, and more.
If you would like to stay at a hotel close by, we recommend the Premier Inn A47 West. Check the price and availability here.
Get details about the convention here.
Mayor Civic Ball at Great Yarmouth Town Hall
When: 22 April
The mayor of Great Yarmouth, Councillor Graham Plant, is hosting a Civic Ball in the Assembly Room at the Town Hall. The event will have a 1920s theme and raise funds for the mayor’s chosen local charities, Hemsby Lifeboat, 1st Bradwell Scout Group, and Bradwell Buds.
Tickets for the event cost £40 and will include a three-course meal, provided by chef Mark Dixon from the Fleggburgh Kings Arms. Musical entertainment will be provided by The TestostaTones, who perform rhythm and blues music. A cash bar will be available throughout the evening.
Get more information here.
Dereham Windmill Craft Fair
When: 22 April
Come along and support talented craftspeople and local charities in the extensive grounds of this Grade-II listed windmill. There will also be homemade cakes, drinks and tasty treats available from the Partea Hut.
Entry and parking are free.
Get more information here.
St. George’s Day Festival in Thorpe St. Andrew
When: 23 April
Head to Fitzmaurice Park for an afternoon of battle re-enactments, archery, street food and drinks.
Get more information here.
Sean Scully at Houghton Hall – Smaller Than the Sky
When: Select Days 23 April – 29 October
One of the world’s most celebrated artists, Sean Scully, will showcase his sculptures, paintings, and works on paper at Houghton Hall.
Read our reviews of the Chris Levine and Tony Cragg exhibitions to find out what to expect.
Find out more here.
Dereham Gin & Rum Festival
When: 28 – 30 April
Dereham Round Table will be holding their 2023 Dereham Gin & Rum Festival will be held at The Cock Pub. Get ready for three days of food, drink, and live music.
There is no admission charge and parking is free.
Get more information here.
Local Makers Mart
When: 29 – 30 April
Shoe Factory Social Club at St. Mary’s Works is hosting a samples & seconds sale with 80 makers selling reduced-price handmade products, including jewellery, ceramics, prints, clothing, homewares, and self-care products. The sale includes perfectly imperfect pieces, older stock, and sample items at bargain prices.
The free-entry event will also offer street food, music, and free kids crafting activities. It’s dog-friendly and accessible, making it a great event for the whole family to enjoy and support local makers while scoring amazing deals.
Get more information here.
Living Heritage Food, Craft and Wood Festival at Sandringham
When: 29 April – 1 May
The whole family can enjoy live music, craft demonstrations, along with plenty of food and drink! There will be an extended food market offering a selection of fine foods, wines and spirits from local and national food producers. You can also try out some specialist street food vendors.
Crafters will be doing demonstrations including vintage machinery and chainsaw wood carving. Foodies can watch cookery demonstrations too. There will also be a variety of live music performances including jazz bands and solo artists.
Save on admission by purchasing tickets in advance.
Get more information here.
Find out about more food festivals in Norfolk.
The Bressingham Heritage Steam Gala
When: 29 April – 1 May
Traction engines and narrow gauge railway locomotives will be visiting Bressingham for the gala event. They have a busy few days planned.
Get more information and purchase tickets here.
Touchbase Festival
When: 29 April
After a huge success during their debut year, Touchbase Festival is back at the Norfolk Showground to with the top acts in Bass music. Get ready for over 25 different acts performing 10 hours of music across two stages.
Get more information here.
Grand East Anglian Run
When: 30 April
King’s Lynn plays host to the Recipharm Grand East Anglia Run (GEAR) 10K! This popular event draws thousands of runners each year to its scenic route, which takes participants through the town centre, along the River Ouse pathway, and past famous landmarks like the Custom House and Greyfriars Tower. The course is flat and accessible to runners of all abilities, so don’t miss out on this fun and friendly event – be sure to book your place before it sells out!
Get more information here.
Martham Scarecrow Festival
When: 30 April – 1 May
Martham will turn into a village full of scarecrows, yarn bombing, and garden/garage Sales. It’s a family friendly event with a treasure hunt, scavenger hunt, and fairground.
Get more information here.
Something to Look Forward to Next April
Horning Boat Show
When: TBC April 2024
The charming village of Horning in the Norfolk Broads will again be having a boat show. It will be a fun family day out with marine exhibitors, entertainment, a food court, charity stands, classic cars, an auction, and more.
You will need to park at BeWilderwood and take a shuttle bus to Horning (£1 each way for adults and 50p for under-12s).
Get more information here.
Looking Ahead
See May events in Norfolk here.
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