Festivals, Markets, and Seasonal Celebrations
There is always a reason to celebrate in the Valley. From our world-renowned food festivals and agricultural shows to intimate live music in historic pubs, our calendar is packed year-round.
Plan your visit around these iconic local events.
🗓️ 2026 Headline Events
Mark your calendars for the biggest dates in the Ribble Valley diary.
- June Jazz Weekend (June 5th – 7th): While the main Jazz & Blues Festival takes a short break, don’t miss this compact, high-energy weekend of live music across Clitheroe.
- The Royal Lancashire Agricultural Show (July 3rd – 5th): A massive celebration of country life at Salesbury Hall. Expect livestock displays, stunt shows, and the finest local crafts.
- Clitheroe Food Festival (Saturday, August 8th): The “Glastonbury of Food.” Join over 25,000 visitors for a day of incredible local produce, street food, and live entertainment.
- Summer Steam Saturdays (August): Perfect for families—head to the Ribble Steam Railway for heritage train rides and museum discovery.
🛍️ Weekly & Monthly Markets
The heart of our market towns beat loudest on these days:
- Clitheroe Market: Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. A traditional market since the 12th century.
- Whalley Monthly Artisan Market: Usually the last Sunday of the month, featuring local makers and bakers.
- The Platform Gallery Exhibitions: Rotating contemporary craft exhibitions in Clitheroe’s former railway station.
🎨 Arts, Music & Culture
- The Grand Venue: Check their schedule for national touring bands, comedians, and cinema screenings.
- Pub Quizzes & Live Sessions: Many of our local gastropubs host acoustic nights and quiz evenings mid-week.
- Walking Festivals: Keep an eye out for seasonal guided walks through the Forest of Bowland.
📮 Stay in the Loop
Events in the Valley are added weekly! Don’t miss out on a last-minute gig or a pop-up market.
- [Sign up for our Newsletter] to get a monthly digest of “What’s On” delivered to your inbox.
- [Submit an Event]: Are you hosting a local event? List it on our site for free to reach thousands of visitors.
📝 From the Blog: Event Guides
- How to Survive (and Thrive) at the Clitheroe Food Festival
- The Best Family-Friendly Events for the Summer Holidays
- Christmas in the Valley: A Guide to Local Pantos and Markets