woodbridge events
With exhibitions, craft markets, theatre-in-the-forest and family fun peppered throughout, Woodbridge offers a year-round calendar to enchant every visitor. Here’s our guide to experiencing Woodbridge’s events scene.
“From the historic Saxon celebrations to lively riverside festivals, every Woodbridge event feels like a window into the town’s community spirit and creativity.”
Woodbridge Festival of Art & Music
When: Late August (typically 30–31 August 2025)
Where: Elmhurst Park and venues around town
Highlights: International music, visual arts, DJ sets, eco art, carnival processions, family-friendly workshops.
Our take: A weekend bursting with creativity — there’s something to delight every age and taste, and the riverside backdrop makes it even more magical.
Woodbridge Saxon Festival
When: Late May (e.g. 24 May 2025)
Where: Woodbridge town centre and Sutton Hoo
Highlights: Costumed re-enactments, Saxon and Viking artefacts, crafts, food stalls, storytelling.
Our take: Walking through the market, you can almost hear history come alive – perfect for families or anyone curious about East Anglia’s past.
Woodbridge School Summer Fete
When: Early June (e.g. 7 June 2025, 11:30 to 14:00)
Where: Woodbridge School Prep grounds
Highlights: Traditional stalls, music, games, performances, refreshments, local produce.
Our take: The cheerful buzz and community spirit make this a lovely stop for a sunny Saturday morning with the kids.
When: June annually
Where: Elmhurst Park and town centre
Highlights: Live music, food vans, outdoor performances, local traders, festival atmosphere.
Our take: A brilliant way to welcome summer -wander the stalls, catch some live tunes, and soak up the town’s energy.
Woodbridge Music Day
When: Mid-July (e.g. 19 July 2025)
Where: Elmhurst Park
Highlights: Local live music across multiple stages, family zones, workshops, food and drink stalls.
Our take: With music for all tastes and space for families to enjoy, it’s a highlight of the summer calendar.
SketchFest / Suffolk SketchFest
When: Early August (1–3 August 2025)
Where: Along the River Deben and throughout Woodbridge
Highlights: Outdoor sketching, guided art walks, plein air sessions, exhibitions, meet artists.
Our take: A treat for creative souls – take inspiration from the estuary views while watching art come to life.
SketchFest Craft Market
When: Around 2 August 2025 (10:00 to 15:00)
Where: Woodbridge town centre
Highlights: Suffolk makers, live music, food stalls, artisan crafts.
Our take: A perfect way to pick up a unique souvenir or sample local flavours while soaking up a festive vibe.
Woodbridge Historic Riverside Festival
When: Late June or early July
Where: Whisstocks Place and Riverside
Highlights: Live music, performance, Saxon storytelling, street food, family activities, art installations.
Our take: A real celebration of riverside heritage — fun for families and a chance to discover the town’s history in an engaging way.
Oyster Festival / Woodbridge Shuck
When: Typically late September (e.g. 22–23 September)
Where: Tide Mill, quay and town centre
Highlights: Oyster and shellfish tasting, live cooking, music, pop-up stalls, maritime heritage.
Our take: Fresh oysters with riverside views – a quintessentially Suffolk experience you won’t forget.
Woodbridge Ambient Music Weekend
When: Mid to late September (e.g. 19–21 September 2025)
Where: Intimate venues across the town
Highlights: Ambient, experimental, electronic performances, DJ sets, sound installations.
Our take: Perfect for those seeking a quieter, immersive music experience – a mellow close to the festival season.
Other notable events
Mind, Body & Spirit Festival: Held twice a year in Woodbridge, with workshops and talks covering wellness, creativity and personal growth (e.g. 19–20 July 2025).
Theatre in the Forest: Outdoor Shakespeare productions each summer by Red Rose Chain, often held in local woodlands and near Woodbridge (e.g. 23 July to 24 August 2025, “Hamlet”).
Local art exhibitions: Rotating exhibitions by regional photographers, painters and illustrators including shows such as “A Brit Abroad” and “Suffolk Through the Lens.”
Seasonal craft markets: Artisan makers’ markets take place in the lead-up to Christmas, Easter and during the summer months.
Explore Woodbridge
Whether you’re drawn by waterfront regattas, open-air theatre on the riverside, or weekend makers’ markets, Woodbridge keeps the calendar full. A handpicked cottage with The Suffolk Cottage Collection gives you local insight, a warm welcome, and front-row access to every memorable moment.
What to try: Wander Elmhurst Park during Summer Fest, catch a riverside performance at the Historic Riverside Festival, and enjoy oysters at the Shuck.
Visitor feedback: Guests love the variety of events, the mix of arts, music, and heritage, and the friendly community atmosphere. Staying locally means they can enjoy front-row access to every festival and workshop.
Our take: From Saxon heritage to ambient music weekends, Woodbridge’s events calendar brings the town’s creativity and riverside charm to life. Every festival, market, and workshop feels welcoming, engaging, and distinctly Suffolk.
Holiday Cottages near woodbridge
