Somerset Day 2026 Guide: Events and Activities in Somerset
Love all things Somerset? You’re not alone. Every year, communities across the county come together to celebrate Somerset Day — a chance to champion everything that makes this stunning part of the UK so special. From its rolling hills and cider orchards to its vibrant market towns and coastlines, Somerset Day 2026 is all about local pride, history, food, and fun.
In this guide, we’re diving into what Somerset Day is, how to celebrate it in 2026, and the best things to see, do, and enjoy around the county. Read on for our Somerset Day 2026 events.
For a more general post about family events in Somerset, read our guide to Things To Do In Somerset With Kids: Family Days Out & Attractions.
When is Somerset Day?
Somerset Day is celebrated every year on May 11th. This year, celebrate Somerset Day 2026 over the weekend of 9th & 10th May.
What is Somerset Day?
Somerset Day marks the legendary date of King Alfred the Great’s call to arms in 878AD, when he gathered the people of Somerset to fight the Viking invasion. Today, it’s less about battles and more about celebrating Somerset’s rich heritage, natural beauty, independent businesses, and thriving community spirit.
Whether you’re a born-and-bred local, a new resident, or just visiting, May 11th is a great time to reconnect with everything Somerset has to offer.
How to Celebrate Somerset Day 2026
There are plenty of events, activities and community celebrations taking place across the county. Look out for:
Street parties, food festivals, and village fetes
Somerset Day markets and fairs featuring local produce, crafts and entertainment
Special events at heritage sites and National Trust properties
Live music, storytelling, and theatre performances
Family-friendly activities and trails in local parks and countryside locations
Best Things to Do on Somerset Day 2026
Looking for ways to mark the day yourself? Here are some top things to do in Somerset on May 11th:
1. See The Somerset Dragon
A magnificent 7ft Dragon, created by the talented students of Taunton College, is the centrepiece of Somerset Day 2026.
Its story is told in The Tail of the Somerset Dragon, a beautifully illustrated book by Serin Brown. Gifted to every primary school in Somerset, it will help thousands of children connect with their local heritage, folklore and sense of belonging so every child feels part of Somerset Day.
As part of the Journey of the Somerset Dragon, it will travel to towns and villages across the county, bringing FREE events, performances and creative activities to local communities. Stops include Haynes Motor Museum, Watchet, Weston, Somerton and Street so look out for it in a town near you.
2. Visit a Local Food Producer
Tour a cider orchard, try award-winning Somerset cheeses, or pick up goodies at a farmers’ market or farm shop. Support local!
3. Explore Historic Somerset
Walk through the cobbled streets of Dunster, climb Glastonbury Tor, or step back in time at Wells Cathedral, Muchelney Abbey, or Montacute House.
4. Take a Seaside Walk
Celebrate Somerset’s coastline with a trip to Clevedon, Burnham-on-Sea, or the fossil-strewn cliffs at Kilve.
5. Attend a Rural Somerset Show or Country Fair
May is packed with agricultural shows, showcasing local crafts, livestock, and traditions. The North Somerset Show is held on Bank Holiday Monday 4th May 2026.
Somerset Day 2026 Events
Community & Cultural Events in Somerset
- Party in the Park at Blenheim Gardens, Minehead (12.00 – 5.00pm) – Enjoy a family and community celebration event in the beautiful Blenheim Gardens, featuring a wide variety of music and entertainment as well as community and craft stalls. There’s activities and games for youngsters plus Blenheim Gardens Cafe will be open for lunches and refreshments, or you might like to bring a picnic and relax on the grass while you enjoy the entertainment.
Food, Farming & Heritage in Somerset
Wells Somerset Day Market – Artisan stalls, live performers, and delicious food in the shadow of the cathedral.
- Avalon Archaeology (Westhay) – Step back in time with living history displays, family crafts, and heritage talks. Sunday 10th may 2026 @ 10:00–4:00.
- Somerset Day in Dunster (Buttercross Community Orchard) – Join the celebration at the Community Orchard. Bring your own brewed cider or apple juice to share. Enjoy homemade Somerset cheese, apple juice from the orchard, and cake. All are welcome, and while admission is free, donations are appreciated. Sunday, May 17th, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
- eat: Taunton – Enjoy a one day food and drink festival with over 100 producers and makers and growers filling the town centre from East Street, down through Fore Street and round and up Hammet Street. 10:00am – 4.00pm.
Family-Friendly Fun & Festivities in Somerset
Somerset Day Picnic at Maidenbrook Country Park (Taunton) – Celebrate Somerset Day at Maidenbrook Country Park. Enjoy a dog show and family-friendly picnic featuring local crafters, delicious food vendors, and a vibrant community atmosphere in a beautiful outdoor setting. Saturday, May 10th, from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
- Family Fun Day at Teals (South Cadbury) –
Celebrate Somerset Day in the Orchard. Food and drink galore, starting with bacon butties in the morning and burgers on the barbecue throughout the day. For kids, flower pressing with @wilderandwren, as well as face painting, nail painting, wash off tattoos and a bouncy castle. Plus, a pop-up shop from original and stylish local makers and finders @thesomersetcollective. All to the crooning tunes of live band Kings of Lounge, back by popular demand. Everyone is welcome, no need to book. Free Entry – Saturday 9th May, 10am-4pm. - Somerset Day Barn Dance at Charlton’s Community Centre – Celebrate Somerset Day by joining a family fun barn dance and enjoying a ploughman’s supper. Live music & Ceilidh caller, plus the bar will be open. Doors: ~ 5pm, dancing starts ~ 6pm.
- Somerset Day on the Levels: BBQ in the Park, at Aller Recreation Ground – Sunday 10th May, 11.30am – 5.00pm. Enjoy a lively community BBQ and licensed bar from the Old Pound Inn, with fantastic live performances by Yvette Staelens, Elven Dale and the brilliant Langport Mummers.
- Clevedon Lake and Pier Day – come along to Clevedon’s Marine Lake for their annual celebration bringing together a full day of family-friendly fun by the water. Expect: a lively mix of games, craft stalls, watersports demonstrations, the popular crabbing competition,plus live music. Saturday 9th May 2026, from 11am. Plus, they’ve teamed up with Clevedon Pier.
Top tip: Follow the official Somerset Day campaign on social media for event listings and ways to get involved in your area. Plus, discover more events on the Somerset Day Website.
Why Somerset Day Matters
Somerset Day is more than just a date on the calendar — it’s a celebration of the county’s rich heritage, community spirit, and local pride. From its historic roots to today’s vibrant events, it’s a moment for residents and visitors alike to come together and honour everything that makes Somerset unique: from rolling countryside and coastlines to its culture, creativity, and spirit.
Join the Celebration in Somerset
Whether you’re waving a Somerset flag, buying from a local maker, or simply enjoying a walk in the Quantocks (see our 10 Pub Walks in Somerset for inspiration), Somerset Day is your chance to be part of something special as well as showing local businesses your support.
Bookmark this guide for Somerset Day 2026.
If you love finding new family days out and events in Somerset then you can follow me on Facebook or Instagram. If you use Facebook you might like to join my Family Days out in Somerset group.
Read more Somerset Guides
If you love discovering new places, don’t miss:
The Best Days Out and Unmissable Things To Do in Somerset
FREE Things To Do In Somerset: Budget-Friendly Adventures
The Best Things To See and Do in Dunster
Things To Do In Bath [Somerset] With Kids
Kilve Beach and East Quantoxhead Circular Walk
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Disclaimer: Event details are subject to change. Please check directly with the venue or organiser before visiting to confirm dates, times, ticket availability, and any specific entry requirements.
