Annual Festivals & Events

Organised by the pioneering music, heritage and art charity, Britten Pears Arts, the inclusive festival (formerly known as the Snape Proms) includes a wide programme of concerts, workshops, exhibitions and fringe events.

Organised by the pioneering music, heritage and art charity, Britten Pears Arts, the festival includes a wide programme of concerts, workshops, exhibitions and events. It is topped off by the vibrant one-day Aldeburgh Festival Extra event Aldeburgh town.

Historic venue and valued community hub, the Aldeburgh Cinema Trust hosts the famous annual Aldeburgh Documentary Festival which attracts thousands for a weekend of inspiring films and thought-provoking discussion.

Established in 2016, Poetry in Aldeburgh aims to promote and support poetry to benefit the local community and the east of England. It provides a welcoming and accessible environment for readings, performances, writing workshops and other activities such as talks and exhibitions.

Enjoy Summer Theatre by the Sea from Aldeburgh Classic Theatre for compelling and entertaining performances of classic favourites. It’s the perfect addition to any Suffolk Coast holiday stay and a real calendar event to look forward to for those who live in the East Suffolk area.

The Aldeburgh Literary Festival is a totally independent arts festival which has been organised by the team at the Aldeburgh Bookshop for over 25 years. It has been hailed as ‘arguably the most important, high quality and diverse celebration of the spoken word’.  

Celebrating the very best in Suffolk food and drink for two decades, the weekend Aldeburgh Food & Drink Festival is the ultimate highlight in the foodie calendar for locals and visitors alike. Its programme of fringe events, offer the opportunity to engage directly with local producers on their patch through walks and more.

Aldeburgh’s family-friendly colourful annual carnival is traditional seaside fun at its finest that raises money for local charities. Expect decorated shops, sporting fun, a lively carnival with floats, an evening lantern parade and fireworks.

Thorpeness Regatta is a community tradition, continued through family stewardship. It was first held in 1913 and is renowned for its family focus, dragon boat races, and after-party featuring decorated boats and fireworks.