May is one of the best times to be in Norfolk. Not only is the weather starting to get warmer, but you can also see the bluebells. Plus, it’s time for the biggest event of the year, the Norfolk and Norwich Festival.
In this post, you will find information about May events in Norfolk so that you can make plans for the month.
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May 2026 Norfolk Events
If you are looking for things to do in Norfolk in May, you have come to the right place. Here you will find events happening in May 2026 in Norfolk. It includes some events that are family-friendly and/or free.
In the recent past, we were fortunate to enjoy an additional bank holiday for both the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and the King’s Coronation. This year, we just have two bank holidays to look forward to in May.
The biggest event during the month is the Norfolk and Norwich Festival, which runs from 8 – 24 May.
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 May 2026 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.
Tulips at Houghton
When: Select Days 11 April to Early May
Planned with leading bulb specialists Peter Nyssen, this display will bring plenty of spring colour to Houghton’s award-winning five-acre Walled Garden. Admission includes Tulips at Houghton in the Walled Garden, plus the Deer Park and Old Stables Courtyard with the Soldier Museum, café and gift shop.
Note, from Saturday 2 May, admission prices will be higher as the Hall, Lynn Chadwick exhibition and Sculpture Park will also be open.
Get more information here.
Bank Holiday Fun Fair in Martham
When: 30 April – 4 May
Gray’s Fun Fair in Martham offers thrilling rides, game stalls, and fairground treats. Bring your loved ones and spend a weekend full of laughter and excitement at Martham Village Green.
Get more information here.
Wymondham Beer, Gin & Rum Festival
When: 1 – 4 May
Wymondham Ex-Services Social Club’s Beer, Gin & Rum Festival is set to be even bigger and better than ever! With live music throughout the weekend, you can dance will you taste all the options on offer. Getting there is easy with great bus links and just a 5-minute walk from Wymondham train station.
Get more information here.
Norwich Craft Beer Festival
When: 1 – 3 May
Sir Toby’s Beers presents the Norwich Craft Beer Festival at The Waterfront. Enjoy a variety of craft beers, local ales, ciders, and specialty imports, plus a spirit and prosecco bar. Expect street food, DJs, and garden games. You can purchase tickets for afternoon and evening sessions, full days, or the whole weekend.
Get more information here.
Costessey Fete & Fayre
When: 2 – 3 May
Costessey Fete & Fayre is back for the May bank holiday weekend, bringing two full days of entertainment to the Norfolk Showground. Expect a bit of everything, from live performances and a funfair to craft stalls, food and drink, and even a dog show. There’s a great mix of things to see and do, so it’s easy to make a full day of it. There is a small admission charge, and parking is free.
Get more information here.
Lynn Chadwick at Houghton Hall
When: Select Days 2 May – 4 October
Houghton Hall will host a major sculpture exhibition by celebrated British artist Lynn Chadwick CBE. Featuring 30 works from the 1950s to the 1990s, the exhibition includes some of his best-known sculptures as well as rarely seen pieces, displayed across the house and grounds. It will be the UK’s largest exhibition of Chadwick’s work in more than 20 years.
Get more information here.
Horning Boat Show
When: 2 May
The Boat Show is back in the charming village of Horning in the Norfolk Broads. 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.
The Bressingham Heritage Steam Gala
When: 2 – 4 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.
Living Heritage Food, Craft and Wood Festival at Sandringham
When: 2 – 4 May
Expect live music, craft demonstrations and plenty of food and drink, including an extended food market and street food vendors. You can watch vintage machinery and chainsaw carving in action, along with cookery demos and live performances from jazz bands and solo artists. Save on admission by booking in advance.
Get more information here.
Martham Scarecrow Festival
When: 3 – 4 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.
Norwich Vegan Parkfest
When: 3 May
The Vegan Parkfest returns to Chapelfield Gardens in Norwich after a few years of hugely successful events. You can expect a huge variety of vegan street food vendors, artisan bakers, craft brewers, ethical jewellers, sustainable chandlers, local artists, zero-waste champions, environmental charities and much more.
There is no entry charge and well behaved dogs are allowed at the event.
Get more information here.
Find out about more food festivals in Norfolk.
Grand East Anglian Run
When: 3 May
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.
Folk on the Pier Festival
When: 8 – 10 May
Top names from the English folk scene will be performing at the Pavilion Theatre in Cromer. You can get discounted season tickets (until they sell out) or buy tickets for individual concerts.
Get more information here.
1.3 East Cromer Fringe Festival
When: 8 – 10 May
Over 100 performers will be taking over Cromer, with live music across five venues as well as dancers and buskers popping up around the town. It’s completely free and a great excuse to wander, dip in and out, and see what you come across.
Get more information here.
Norfolk and Norwich Festival
When: 8 – 24 May
Read our guide to the 2022 Norfolk and Norwich Festival and the 2023 Norfolk and Norwich Festival for information on previous years’ events. Find out more about this year’s festival here.
The Norfolk and Norwich Festival is the biggest event of the year in Norfolk. It’s the flagship arts festival for the East of England, and includes an exciting programme of music, theatre, literature, visual arts, circus, dance and free outdoor events.
Hunstanton Fun Dog Show
When: 9 May
This is not your typical dog show with some novelty classes and rosettes to 10th place. They will also have trade stalls, refreshments, and more. It takes place at the Glebe House School in Hunstanton.
Get more details here.
Dereham Day
When: 9 May
Dereham Day returns with loads of activities and entertainment for everyone to enjoy. The Dereham Memorial Hall will be at the heart of the festivities, hosting tons of fun stalls, workshops, and live performances throughout the day.
Get more information here.
Race for Life at Norwich Showground
When: 9 -10 May
You can choose to run one (or more) race(s) to raise money for life-saving cancer research. They will be a 3K, 5K, 10K and Pretty Muddy.
Find out more here.
If you want to stay at a hotel close by, we recommend the Premier Inn A47 West.
Great Yarmouth Civic Ball
When: 15 May
Held in the Assembly Room at Great Yarmouth Town Hall, this elegant evening celebrates the Mayoral Year of Councillor Carl Annison. Guests can enjoy a three-course meal, live entertainment, a licensed bar and a charity raffle, all raising funds for the Mayor’s chosen causes.
Get more information here.
Norwich Jazz Festival
When: 15 – 24 May
Norwich Jazz Festival brings ten days of live music across the city each May, celebrating the best in UK and international jazz. Originally running at Norwich Arts Centre between 1981 and 2005, the festival was relaunched in 2025 and has quickly become one of the highlights of the Norfolk & Norwich Festival. Past headliners have included Mammal Hands, Azymuth, and the National Youth Jazz Orchestra, with performances spread across a range of city venues.
Get more information here.
Cromer Crab & Lobster Festival
When: 15 – 17 May
This festival celebrates the sea-faring heritage of Cromer. It begins with the Grand Opening Variety Concert at the Pier Pavilion Theatre and also includes demonstrations, a street market, a cookery theatre, live music, street performers, crafts and activities for the kids, and an art trail and the scrumptious seafood trail which includes many local restaurants, cafés, and pubs.
Get more information here.
Stalham Fringe Festival
When: 17 May Cancelled due to weather forecast hopefully it will be rescheduled for September
Experience the talent of Stalham and beyond at the Stalham Fringe Festival, a free event featuring an array of performers and vendors. Enjoy performances across three venues and the lively atmosphere of the High Street. With more than 30 stalls offering everything from delicious hot and cold food to plants, crafts, books, and more, there’s something for everyone.
Get more information here.
Asparagus Festival
When: 17 May
The Tacon’s Farm Shop is hosting their annual Asparagus Festival. Enjoy fresh asparagus, cooking demonstrations, local food stands, live music, and refreshing beverages. Entry is free.
Get more information here.
Bressingham 1940’s Day
When: 17 May
Get ready for a 1940’s themed event with the Dad’s Army Appreciation Society. It’s a must for lovers of that time period and also a great way for young people to learn more about it by immersing themselves in the memorabilia, vehicles, fashions, music and more of the day. The museum will be open during the event too.
You can buy tickets and get more information here.
Norwich City of Ale
When: 21 May – 22 June
Take part in a month-long celebration of pubs and brewers with 7 different ale trails where you can collect stamps. It all starts with a launch party at the Waterfront in Norwich.
Get more information here.
Gray Brothers Fun Fair at Eaton Park
When: 22 -25 May
Prepare yourself for an exhilarating adventure filled with thrilling rides, delectable candy floss and popcorn, the anticipation of winning exciting prizes, and an electric atmosphere buzzing with excitement in Eaton Park. The Gray Brothers Fun Fair will help keep the kids entertained during half-term.
Get more information here.
Norwich Games Festival
When: 23 – 30 May
Norwich Games Festival (NGF) is back at The Forum, featuring an exciting lineup of events, workshops, talks, and free interactive activities for all gaming enthusiasts. Sponsored by Norwich University of the Arts, the festival offers a retro arcade, game jams with industry professionals, immersive VR experiences, and much more.
Get more information here.
Medieval Weekend at Norfolk Tank Museum
When: 23 – 25 May
This medieval-themed weekend mixes combat displays, armour and hands-on activities with the museum’s usual military collection. Visitors can watch battles, handle replica weapons and even try on armour, while younger visitors can get involved with safe soft-combat activities and plenty of space to run around.
Get more information here.
Norwich Brick Show
When: 23 – 24 May
This family-friendly event brings together more than 50 LEGO builders from across the UK and Europe, with impressive displays, interactive activities and plenty to keep all ages entertained. Alongside the creations, there will be games, building competitions, sellers, and even a LEGO robot battle arena running throughout the day. Best of all, profits from the show support EACH and Fairy Bricks.
Get more information here.
Sandringham Pageant of Motoring
When: 24 May
The Pageant of Motoring is back in the Royal Parkland, following its successful debut for the Platinum Jubilee. This year’s event promises to showcase the evolution of motoring over the decades with spectacular live music performances, thrilling aerial displays, culinary delights, and a craft and vintage fair for all to enjoy.
Get more information here.
Hanse Festival in King’s Lynn
When: 24 May
The Hanse Festival includes events and activities around King’s Lynn to celebrate the town’s membership of the new Hanse.
Get more information here.
Out There Festival
When: 28 – 30 May
Experience the magic of the Out There Festival in Great Yarmouth, where over 100 performances from UK and international artists come together in a whirlwind of circus, acrobatics, dance, comedy, and music. The festival offers a vibrant celebration of creativity and diversity, with almost all performances being completely free.
Get more information here.
Three Rivers Race
When: 30 – 31 May
The Three Rivers Race, a longstanding event on the Broads sailing calendar, has been held annually since 1961. It is renowned as one of the largest inland yachting races in Europe and takes place in rural Norfolk. Originally intended to cross the estuary at Breydon Water, safety and tidal concerns led to a change in course. The race now follows the northern Broadland rivers of the Bure, Thurne, and Ant, which have become the enduring trio of rivers for the event.
Get more information here.
Great Yarmouth Comic Con
When: 30 – 31 May
Back for its 6th year, this Comic Con features a host of movie props, cosplayers, celebrity guests and more at Great Yarmouth Racecourse.
Get more details and buy tickets here.
Dabbling Duck Beer Festival
When: 30 – 31 May
This local pub is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a lively beer festival, featuring around 30 ales, ciders and craft lagers from both Norfolk and further afield. Expect a fun, relaxed atmosphere with live music across the weekend, DJs, great food including BBQ and wood-fired pizza, plus a few extras like games and even ice cream.
Get more information here.
Jarrolds Ladies Day at Fakenham Racecourse
When: 31 May
Time to get dressed up to the nines and enjoy a day at the races. Children aged 17 and younger are free with a paying adult.
Get tickets here.
Something to Look Forward to Next May
Norfolk Fake Festival at Eaton Park
When: Not happening in 2026, hoping it will come back in 2027
Norwich Fake Festival is a tribute-based music event with six ‘fake bands’ – professional ‘touring-grade’ tribute bands that put on a superb performance. They look, sound and move like the real rock-stars – you have to see them to believe it! There will also be a licensed bar and food traders.
Get more information here.
Read about more music festivals in Norfolk here.
Strumpshaw Steam Rally
When: Not happening May 2026, hopefully it will be back
The Strumpshaw Steam Museum is hosting a Steam Rally. It will be a fun family day out with steam engines, stationary engines, classic cars, tractors, working demonstrations, craft and trade stands, ring events, and Harveys Shires Horse displays.
Get more information here.
Reepham Food Festival
When: Not happening May 2026, hoping it may come back in the future
The 8th Reepham Food Festival will take place in the Market Square and the Secret Garden with a wide range of local food and drink producers. They expect to have more than 30 stalls, so there will be something for all tastes and budgets. Plus, schools, farms and other organisations will be joining in so there will be lots to do and see for all the family.
Get more information here.
Diss Organ Festival
When: Returning May 2027
Don’t miss this one-day celebration brings together the finest fairground, street, and dance organs, filling the Diss town centre with music. You can enjoy live performances, meet passionate organ owners, and learn about the history of mechanical music.
Get more information here.
Mulbarton Festival
When: Hoping it will be back May 2027
Mulbarton Festival has a spectacular lineup of live music, food, drinks, and activities for all ages! To secure your spot, we recommend purchasing tickets in advance, as capacity at Mulberry Park is limited.
Get more information here.
Looking Ahead
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