Discover unforgettable events in the New Forest, whether you're visiting for a holiday or looking for something special close to home. From food festivals and country shows to live music, theatre, and family-friendly activities, there’s always something happening here.
Plan ahead and book tickets for exciting events throughout the year, soak up the seasonal celebrations, and create lasting memories with family and friends.
Major events in the New Forest
The New Forest is home to iconic annual events, bringing together the best of the destination's traditions, culture, and community spirit.
One of the biggest highlights is the New Forest and Hampshire County Show, a three-day celebration of country life held every July at New Park in Brockenhurst. Expect show jumping, cookery demonstrations, local produce stalls, and plenty of family-friendly fun.
For dog lovers, Dogstival is an unmissable festival dedicated entirely to our four-legged friends. Enjoy interactive dog activities, live arena shows, expert talks, dog-friendly shopping, food stalls, and live music - it’s a dream day out for dogs and their humans!
If you love the great outdoors, don’t miss the New Forest Walking and Cycling Festival, which takes place over two weeks in October. With guided walks and bike rides across the National Park, this is the perfect chance to explore hidden corners of the forest while staying active.
Many local attractions also host exciting events throughout the year, including vintage car shows, autojumbles, and supercar weekends at Beaulieu.
Local food and drink festivals
Food lovers will find plenty to indulge in with seasonal food festivals, weekly markets, and gourmet events celebrating the best local produce.
Explore weekly markets in Ringwood, New Milton, Hythe, and Lymington, or discover artisan treats and crafts at themed pop-up markets throughout the year.
For a true taste of the New Forest, the New Forest Food Festival showcases local delights, from artisan cheeses and farm-fresh produce to craft beers and fine wines. Enjoy chef demonstrations, live music, family activities, and a funfair, making it the perfect day out for foodies of all ages.
Want to get hands-on? Join a cookery school experience at Chewton Glen, where you can learn from celebrity chefs or take part in a guided walking picnic, discovering local flavours along the way.
Keep an eye out for seasonal dining events, including special themed nights in restaurants, pubs, and cafés across the New Forest.
Music, concerts and art exhibitions at the New Forest
If you’re looking for arts and culture, the New Forest has a fantastic line-up of concerts, performances, and exhibitions throughout the year.
Enjoy outdoor theatre and cinema on the lawn at Beaulieu, where you can watch Shakespearean plays in action in the beautiful settings of Palace House.
Concerts, comedy evenings and film screenings take place regularly at Hanger Farm Arts Centre and the Milford on Sea Music and Arts Festival in July offers a variety of concerts and events each year.
Check out the changing art exhibitions at the St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery in Lymington. Exhibitions often feature works of art on loan from national, regional and private collections. Local artists also exhibit their works during the annual open exhibition.
New Forest Heritage Centre in Lyndhurst stages temporary exhibitions as well such as local photography and artists. Here you can also learn about the rich history and traditions of the New Forest in the museum and centre.
At Exbury Gardens, visitors can enjoy seasonal art exhibitions, talks and themed garden walks at different times of the year.
Want to be entertained whilst in the forest? Check out our music and entertainment events and make sure you get your tickets now!
Family-friendly events at the New Forest
Families will find plenty of fun-filled events throughout the year, from guided nature walks to interactive discovery days at local attractions.
During the school holidays, look out for children’s trails, storytelling sessions, and hands-on activities at places Beaulieu, Buckler’s Hard, Hurst Castle and Exbury Gardens.
Sopley Farm and Cat & Fiddle Farm host great seasonal events.
Special family events take place at Peppa Pig World at Paulton’s Park, particularly during the festive period and children can get hands-on with some nature fun and activities at Blashford Lakes and Moors Valley Country Park.
Make sure you keep an eye out for all of the exciting holiday and annual events posted throughout the year too, including events happening during Half terms and school holidays and look out for our latest blog posts as we showcase some of the top events you can join in with over the school holidays.
Plan your visit to the New Forest
Attending an event in the New Forest? Planning your trip is easy!
Whether you're travelling by car, train, or bike, there are hassle-free ways to reach the New Forest - check out our guide for the best routes and transport options.
Looking for somewhere to stay? The New Forest offers a wide range of accommodation, from luxury hotels and cosy B&Bs to woodland lodges and camping under the stars. Find the perfect place to make your visit even more special.
Want to know more about what’s on?
Stay updated with all the latest events by browsing our listings and signing up for our Weekly What’s On in the New Forest Enewsletter - your go-to guide for upcoming festivals, concerts, markets, and seasonal celebrations.
If you’re organising an event and would like it to be featured on our website, submit your details here to be included in our calendar.
Get ready for an unforgettable experience
From food festivals and country fairs to live music, theatre, and family-friendly fun, the New Forest is bursting with exciting events all year round. Plan your visit, book your tickets, and make the most of what’s on in this magical part of Hampshire!
If you are holding an event within the New Forest that you would like to be featured on our website, please submit details of it here.
