What's On in Exeter – Events This Week & Things To Do

What kinds of events happen in Exeter during the week?

Gandy Street hosts arts-focused gatherings including theatre performances, music nights, and independent exhibitions. Food & drink events take place regularly at Quayside, where riverside cafés and dining venues contribute to seasonal festivals like Northernhay Gardens’ annual South West Food & Drink Festival. Storytelling sessions under the theme "Tell Me A Story" occur weekly in public spaces such as Overbeck’s Garden, aimed at preschoolers. Academic workshops known as Subject Insight Sessions are held during term time on campus grounds near University of Exeter and Queen Street. Family-friendly walks like Room on the Broom take place monthly at Haldon Forest Park.

Where do most events take place in Exeter?

Most weekly gatherings occur within central locations, particularly Northernhay Gardens, which serves as a long-standing site for seasonal festivals including the South West Food & Drink Festival and public markets. Gandy Street functions as an established cultural hub with regular programming at independent venues focused on music, arts, and community events. Quayside provides access to riverside cafés and event spaces along Exeter’s historic waterway; its proximity to Cathedral Close enhances footfall for civic activities near the Roman defensive walls. University of Exeter campuses host research-related talks during term time while Princesshay and Queen Street draw crowds through retail-focused happenings.

Are there family-friendly things to do in Exeter?

Yes, families can access a variety of accessible options throughout public spaces and educational centres. Northernhay Gardens provides an historic venue for seasonal events like the South West Food & Drink Festival with interactive stalls aimed at children. The EGGcellent Kid’s Disco is held weekly during term time at Exeter Library under the theme "Tell Me A Story," offering indoor entertainment that complements outdoor activity trails such as Room on the Broom in Haldon Forest Park or pollination walks near Powderham Castle. Nature-based experiences include guided paths through woodland and green space, with activities like egg hunts and tractor rides offered at Darts Farm Tulip Fest and Ullacombe Farm.

What nightlife and music events happen in Exeter?

Nightlife & Music events are staged across several city venues including Gandy Street’s independent cultural spaces and Quayside riverside bars. Themed dance nights such as "Ibiza Anthems," "Dance Anthems - 90s v 00s" or tributes to garage music like Chop Suey! Nu-Metal are hosted regularly on weekend evenings in intimate venues near Exeter Cathedral Green and Northernhay Gardens.

How can I find events happening this week or this weekend in Exeter?

To discover current offerings, consult The City Brief’s curated listings for "this week" and "this weekend." These guides cover all key categories including Food & Drink, Family & Kids, Nightlife & Music, Culture & Arts, Fitness & Outdoors, Shopping & Markets. Events are listed by venue type , such as Gandy Street or Quayside , or public space like Northernhay Gardens with filters available via guide pages focused on city centre hubs or seasonal festivals.