What’s On in the Ribble Valley

group of people sat around a table in a courtyard enjoying a drink

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.

🏛️ Cultural & Seasonal Highlights

    🍺 Major Festivals & Weekenders

    SeekOut Festival

    • The Experience: An immersive multi-day arts and music festival set in the forest. Expect a blend of family-friendly workshops, live music, and a community-focused atmosphere.
    • Dates: 24th July – 26th July 2026
    • Location: Gisburn Forest (exact forest sites vary by stage)
    • Visitor Essentials: This is a rural outdoor event. Sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are essential, even in July. Check for camping availability in advance.

    Ribble Valley Scooter Rally & Music Festival

    26th September to the 28th September 2026 ( Friday to Sunday )

    The Ribble Valley Scooter Rally & Music Festival is one of the most lively annual events in Clitheroe, bringing together scooter enthusiasts, live music, and a vibrant festival atmosphere.

    Combining classic scooter culture with a weekend of entertainment, the event attracts visitors from across Lancashire and beyond.

    A full weekend celebrating vintage scooter culture, classic 60s Mod fashion, and live music across the town.

    Expect everything from R&B to Ska, with over 70 performances taking place in more than 20 venues, alongside Saturday trade stalls and a lively ride-in event.

    From Friday through to Sunday, Clitheroe comes alive with Mod-inspired music and atmosphere.

    On Saturday afternoon, hundreds of vintage scooters make their way from Ribchester into Clitheroe, arriving in a standout ride-in at around 1:30pm.

    Visitors are encouraged to get involved—dress the part and soak up the spirit of the 1960s.’

    🧺 Regular Market & Community Events

    • Clitheroe Market: Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. A traditional market located in the heart of town, perfect for picking up local Lancashire produce.
    • Tranquil Tuesdays: Every Tuesday morning at Ribblesdale Pool. Designed for those seeking a quieter, more relaxed swimming experience.
    • Clitheroe Repair Café: Held monthly (check specific dates at the venue). Bring your broken appliances, jewelry, or clothing to be fixed by local volunteers—a great way to save money and reduce waste. – Venue Address: Clitheroe United Reformed Church, Moor Lane, Clitheroe BB7 1AZ. Operating Hours: The café typically runs on the third Saturday of every month from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM (excluding August and December).

    🗓️ 2026 Headline Events

    Mark your calendars for the biggest dates in the Ribble Valley diary.

    • 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.

    📝 Event Guides