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St Ives September Festival 2026

Sat 12th Sep - 9:00am

Sun 13th Sep - 9:00am

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Mon 14th Sep - 9:00am

Tue 15th Sep - 9:00am

Wed 16th Sep - 9:00am

Thu 17th Sep - 9:00am

Fri 18th Sep - 9:00am

Sat 19th Sep - 9:00am

Sun 20th Sep - 9:00am

Mon 21st Sep - 9:00am

Tue 22nd Sep - 9:00am

Wed 23rd Sep - 9:00am

Thu 24th Sep - 9:00am

Fri 25th Sep - 9:00am

Sat 26th Sep - 9:00am

St Ives
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Why September Is the Perfect Time to Visit St Ives: Festival Highlights for 2026

If you’re dreaming of a late summer escape filled with culture, music and the unmistakable charm of Cornwall, September in St Ives is hard to beat. From 12 to 26 September, the town comes alive with its much-loved St Ives September Festival — a two‑week celebration that blends world‑class performances with the creative spirit that makes this seaside town so special.

Big Name Performers in Beautiful Venues

The festival opens with the rich harmonies of The Oggymen, setting the tone for a programme that mixes heritage with fresh new voices. Comedy fans will be delighted to see Pam Ayres on the bill — always a sell‑out thanks to her trademark warmth and wit — while rising country‑pop star Harleymoon Kemp brings a contemporary edge to the line‑up.

Across the town, St Ives’ most atmospheric venues host an array of standout performances:

  • St Ia Church welcomes festival favourite Steve Knightley, local star Molly Hocking, Americana inspired Bailey Tomkinson & The Locals, the stirring shanties of Bryher’s Boys and LYR featuring the Poet Laureate Simon Armitage. The church’s acoustics make every performance feel magical.
  • St Ives Arts Club offers an intimate setting for expressive voices and emerging talent, including Jude Johnson, the Adam Sweet Trio, the ever-popular Johnny Cowling, and the powerful songwriting of Hollie Rogers.

Street Entertainment That Brings the Town to Life

On Saturday 12 and Saturday 19 September, the streets of St Ives burst into colour and sound in the afternoons.  Visitors can enjoy lively outdoor performances — from the exuberant Falmouth Marine Band to the uplifting harmonies of Rock Choir Cornwall. It’s the perfect way to soak up the festival atmosphere as you wander through the town’s cobbled lanes.

A Haven for Art Lovers

St Ives has long been a magnet for artists, and the festival celebrates that creative heritage in full:

  • Open Studios invites visitors into the workspaces of painters, potters, printmakers and sculptors where you can chat to the artists and see them in action
  • St Ives Museum hosts a special exhibition exploring the town’s cultural story
  • Porthmeor Studios offers hands-on workshops for those keen to try something new.
  • St Ives Library adds to the creative mix with Art Club sessions and a dedicated poetry workshop
  • Workshops, talks and exhibitions take place throughout the town
  • Guided walks offer insight into St Ives’ artistic and cultural heritage
  • Daily free poetry and music sessions in Norway Square create a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere
  • The iconic Spot the Artist event, you just might get yourself a future masterpiece
  • Free live music pops up in venues across the town throughout the fortnight

With its blend of world class performers, local talent and creative exploration, the 2026 St Ives September Festival is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet – a true celebration of the town’s spirit and artistic heritage.

Visit  St Ives September Festival  for full details, to book tickets and sign up for the latest news.

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