The Best North Norfolk Festivals & Events 2026
North Norfolk enters full celebration mode during many of its yearly festivals and events. You can feel it in the air, with the buzz along the promenade, the sound of music drifting through streets, and the excitement of families gathering for something just a little bit different.
If you’re planning your next stay, timing it around one of North Norfolk’s much-loved festivals can turn a lovely break into something truly memorable.
Here’s your guide to the best festivals and events in North Norfolk for the whole family:
Cromer Crab & Lobster Festival (16 - 17 May)
Cromer Crab & Lobster Festival is where the North Norfolk coast celebrates the town’s rich fishing heritage that has shaped Cromer for centuries. You can soak up the lively atmosphere around the pier with live music, including traditional sea shanties, alongside cooking demonstrations and delicious opportunities to taste the famous Cromer crab - known for its sweet, delicate flavour. Rooted in sustainable, time-honoured fishing methods, the festival also offers a glimpse into local life, from watching boats return to shore to enjoying art trails and community events, making it a wonderfully authentic and memorable day by the sea.
For you, it’s a chance to slow down, try something new, and enjoy a day that feels both vibrant and authentically local. There’s a real community feel here, with parades, local producers, and plenty to keep all generations entertained.
To find out more about the events click here.
Norfolk & Norwich Festival (8 - 24 May)
The Norfolk & Norwich Festival is a vibrant celebration of creativity across the county, bringing together dance, music, literature, circus and interactive workshops. With pop-up performances and events appearing in a variety of unique locations, it’s an inspiring time to explore Norfolk, offering something unexpected around every corner and a chance to share memorable cultural experiences together.
More about the events and locations can be found here.
Cromer Carnival Week (15 - 21 August)
This is the big one!
Cromer’s much-loved Cromer Carnival returns this year, bringing a full week of colour, energy and traditional seaside fun. Across the week, you’ll find lively entertainment on the carnival field, the much-loved parade of decorated floats through town, and the crowning of the Carnival Queen, all set against a backdrop of community spirit and celebration.
The RNLI day offers great entertainment, giving you a real insight into the amazing work of the RNLI volunteers. You can watch the lifeboat launch from Cromer Pier, meet the volunteers and see dramatic rescue demonstrations by our crew and RNLI Lifeguards.
The highlight is Carnival Day (20th August), when the skies above Cromer Pier come alive with a spectacular air display from the Red Arrows. It’s one of those unforgettable moments that draws everyone to the seafront. Watching them soar over the sea is one of those moments that stops everyone in their tracks.
As evening falls, fireworks light up the cliffs on the last day (21st August), rounding off days filled with laughter, tradition and shared experiences, before returning to your own space to relax and enjoy the quieter side of the coast.
Sheringham 1940s Weekend (18 - 20 Sept)
The Sheringham 1940s Weekend transforms the whole town into a lively step back in time, filled with vintage music, fashion and nostalgic charm. With over 20,000 visitors each year, you can expect immersive re-enactments, live performances, classic cars, themed shopfronts and plenty of opportunities to dress up and join in.
From steam train rides on the North Norfolk Railway to bustling street entertainment and period displays, it’s a vibrant, all-ages event that brings history to life in the most engaging and memorable way.
More information about this event can be found here.
Cromer Pier Christmas Show (14 Nov - 28 Dec)
The Cromer Pier Christmas Show promises a truly festive experience, blending high-quality entertainment with a warm, feel-good atmosphere. Hosted by the much-loved Olly Day, the show brings together comedy, music, dance and speciality acts, all wrapped in spectacular West End-style production. With dazzling costumes, impressive lighting, a striking 8-metre video wall, and beautifully designed sets, it’s a visually stunning performance that captures the magic of the season - perfect for an evening that leaves the whole family feeling full of Christmas spirit.
Here’s a link to buy your tickets well in advance to secure your seats!
When should you book your stay?
These are the moments where the North Norfolk coast feels most alive, and they’re located just a short walk or drive away from our holiday homes, where you can quickly return to, relax and connect with family and friends.
If you are planning to visit during any of these events it’s always worth booking early, especially for Cromer Carnival and the Crab & Lobster Festival events.
For more ideas on family days out and family-friendly places to eat, check out our other blogs.
If you have any questions about these events or other local information please get in touch with Rebecca via Whatsapp on 07857 751034 or email info@norfolkcoastescapes.com and we’ll be more than happy to help!
(All dates true for 2026)