Every year, there are certain events in Norwich that we get very excited about and always try to attend. Things get quite busy in the summer but there are a few celebrations in the winter too. Let me share some of the best festivals in Norwich.
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Annual Events and Festivals in Norwich
If you are looking for a fun time in Norwich, these events will deliver. Most are great for kids and free! You won’t want to miss these Norwich Festivals!
The festivals are listed chronologically as they would fall in the calendar.
Norwich Science Festival
The Forum presents the Norwich Science Festival which includes family-friendly events that are inspirational, educational, and insightful. It’s a fun way to learn the fascinating science of the world around us.
In the past, this event has taken place in the Fall, but starting in 2023 it will take place during the February half-term.
Get more information here.
Love, Light Norwich
Love, Light Norwich is a big undertaking so it only happens every other year in February. This exciting light festival themed around love and belonging transforms much-loved Norwich landmarks into vibrant artworks. There are also performances from renowned artists, a city centre procession, and interactive installations.
It’s free to attend. Read about Love Light Norwich 2022.
Norfolk Maker’s Festival
Each March, the Norfolk Makers Festival brings together tens of thousands of people in a celebration of creativity and making heritage. Inside the The Forum in Norwich, there will be inspirational exhibitions, demonstrations, hands-on activities, conversation, talks and workshops where you can engage with local crafters, hobbyists, and small businesses.
It’s free to attend. Get more information here.
Norfolk & Norwich Festival
The Norfolk and Norwich Festival is the biggest event of the year in Norfolk. Taking place for 17 days in May, it’s the flagship arts festival for the East of England. Many events take place in Norwich including lots of music, theatre, literature, visual arts, circus, dance and free outdoor events.
Read our guide to the 2022 Norfolk and Norwich Festival.
Royal Norfolk Show
It’s the largest two-day agricultural show in the country. It’s held at Norfolk Showground each June and will have 700 trade stands, over 3000 animals, a packed Grand Ring Programme, Norfolk’s biggest food and drink experience, and more.
Get details here.
Lord Mayor’s Weekend
This is one of the most best weekends in the city calendar. For three days in early July, the city centre is like a giant carnival with with free music, performance, entertainment and a parade to feast your eyes on. The main event is Saturday’s Lord Mayor’s Procession fill with dancers and performers.
Get more information here.
Run Norwich 10K
Every July, this popular 10K takes you by some of Norwich’s most iconic landmarks including Norwich Castle, The Forum, Norwich Cathedral, Norwich City Football Club’s Carrow Road and many more. It’s no surprise that Run Norwich has been voted as the ‘Best 10k in the United Kingdom’, according to the Running Awards.
Get more information here.
Norwich Pride
Norwich celebrates Pride at the end of July with a Pride March and entertainment in the city centre.
Get more information here.
Heritage Open Days
Heritage Open Days (HODs) is England’s largest festival of history and culture, held for two weeks each September. Select venues, organisations, private homes and gardens in Norwich open their doors for free to celebrate the very best city’s rich history and heritage. You can find more places participating in Heritage Open Days throughout the county.
Get more information here.
More Ideas For When You Are in Norwich
If you need more suggestions for things to while you are in Norwich, check out these posts:
Things to Do in Norwich at Night