With a packed calendar of events and festivals, Winchester promises an unforgettable experience no matter when you visit.
Winchester is a vibrant district brimming with exciting things to do all year round, from art exhibitions and comedy nights to food festivals and Christmas markets. If you're looking to find out what's on in Winchester, this page is your ultimate events guide.
You'll find events on in Winchester city, as well as the surrounding district, which includes rural Hampshire countryside, characterful villages and the market towns of Alresford, Bishop's Waltham and Wickham. Discover Winchester traditions and annual events like Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market, outdoor arts festival the Hat Fair, Alresford's Watercress Festival, Wickham Festival, Boomtown and more, as well as regular events like the Winchester Street Market and Winchester Farmers’ Market, which is one of the largest in the UK, plus one-offs like family-friendly theatre shows, craft workshops, concerts, stand-up nights and more.
There are always things going on at Winchester Cathedral, from lunchtime concerts to installations and events, while The Arc, an iconic, Grade II listed building on the city's Jewry Street, hosts a selection of exhibitions, live comedy, music and theatre as well as classes and workshops. If you're looking for things to do in Winchester with kids, you'll find spotter trails, make and take crafts and shows at attractions like The Watercress Line and Winchester Science Centre.
Scroll down to the bottom of the page to search all the events happening in Winchester below, so you can find what's going on this week, this weekend, this month, or what's coming up if you're planning a visit for later in the year.
Curated by the Visit Winchester team. Updated: 6 February 2026.
Festivals in Winchester
Winchester has a year-round timetable of festivals that inspire and intrigue. From jazz to chamber music, fashion to poetry, all artistic genres are celebrated.
A highlight is the world-famous Hat Fair. A free family-friendly festival of street performance and outdoor arts across the city, which takes place every year during the first weekend of July (next running in 2027).
The festive season in Winchester is truly magical. Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market draws visitors from far and wide. From mid-November to late December, the cathedral grounds are filled with charming wooden chalets offering unique gifts, festive treats, and holiday cheer.
For history enthusiasts, Winchester Heritage Open Days in September provide a unique opportunity to explore the city’s hidden treasures. Enjoy free access to historic buildings, guided tours, and special events celebrating Winchester’s rich heritage.
Other highlights include Winchester Chamber Music Festival in April, featuring performances by world-class musicians in intimate settings, Boomtown music festival which takes place locally in August, Winchester Poetry Festival in October, Winchester Books Festival in spring and the Watercress Festival, which takes over local town Alresford every May.