St Ives September Festival: What to See & Do
Every September, the town of St Ives comes alive with a vibrant celebration of art, music and culture. The St Ives September Festival offers an inspiring mixture of exhibitions, performances, workshops, theatre, walks, comedy, poetry, films and more.
If you’re thinking of attending, here are some of the top things to see and do – plus insider tips to help you soak up everything this festival has to offer.
The 2026 Festival is now over but more information about 2027 will be coming soon.
Top Things to See & Do
Headline Shows & Live Music
These are generally ticketed events, so booking ahead is strongly recommended. You will be able to find out more about the music here and headline acts taking place during St Ives September Festival 2027 soon.
Open Studios & Art Exhibitions
One of the festival’s greatest charms is its Open Studios trail, where local artists throw open their workshops so you can see see their work and the space they use to create.
Galleries throughout St Ives – including Penwith Gallery, Leach Pottery, Tate St Ives and many smaller ones – host free or low-cost exhibitions. Great chance to explore the huge variety of art that St Ives has to offer.
Creative Workshops at St Ives School of Painting
Try drawing, painting, printmaking workshops at St Ives School of Painting – whether you’re a beginner or more practiced, we welcome all levels of abilities.
Our programme of half-day workshops, take place every morning and afternoon during the festival, and are typically released in early summer. In the meantime, you can find more short art workshops from St Ives School of Painting below.
Street Entertainment & Atmosphere
The festival includes a whole host of street entertainment including marching bands, performances in the open air. Great for wandering, getting surprised, and absorbing the local atmosphere. Buskers, small pop-ups, impromptu performances across venues add to the festival’s charm.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Festival
Book in advance for ticketed shows: Popular performances often sell out early.
Plan your days with variety: mix events (e.g. a workshop or talk in the morning, an exhibition in the afternoon, live music or theatre in the evening).
Check times & venues carefully: Multiple venues across town and open studios have varying opening hours.
Allow time to explore the town: Beaches, cafés, galleries outside the festival programme. The environment is part of the experience.
Be flexible with weather: Outdoor events/street entertainment may be affected. Having a backup plan (indoors, theatres, galleries) is wise.
Stay close or centrally: It reduces time lost in travel between events/venues, and lets you soak up the festival atmosphere.
And most importantly… enjoy!
23/4/2026
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