2026 Outdoor Events

Easter Market & Town Trail – DELIVERED!
4 April 2026 

Join us at the Rugby Easter Market for a fun-filled day of shopping, entertainment, and community spirit on Saturday 4 April from 9:00am to 4:00pm. Taking place across Market Place, High Street, Sheep Street and St Andrew’s Church Garden, the event will feature a fantastic selection of market stalls, delicious food and drink, live music, family entertainment, free drop-in workshops, and street play. With something for all ages, including Rugby’s first Teenage Market, it's the perfect opportunity to celebrate Easter and enjoy a day out in the heart of Rugby town centre. 

 

Spring Food & Drink Festival – DELIVERED!
25 April 2026 

The Rugby Spring Food and Drink Festival is back on the menu for Saturday 25 April, between 11am and 5pm, in Rugby town centre. The FREE event will take place in and around Regent Street and offer visitors a tempting array of delicious food and drink treats, family entertainment and music.    

 

Bikefest – DELIVERED!
17 May 2026 

One of Rugby’s best, biggest and most-loved events – Rugby Bikefest – will be returning to Rugby town centre on Sunday 17 May, between 10.30am and 4pm! 
 
The supercharged, free family bike friendly festival, organised in conjunction with local motorcycling groups, will see hundreds of bikes roar into the town centre! Bike enthusiast or not there’s no shortage of entertainment for everyone – bike displays, stalls, fantastic live music, family entertainment, a funfair, food, arena displays and even a few cars thrown in for good measure!  

 

Love Rugby – COMING SOON!
20 June – 5 July 2026 

Love Rugby Festival back! Enjoy an action-packed two weeks from Saturday 20 June to Sunday 5 July. The festival will drive activity across Rugby with a busy programme of live music, theatre, art, heritage, sport and community-led activities. Highlights include Bits and Bots: Family Fun Day at Rugby Art Gallery & Museum, Live & Loud music festival, The Lazy Sunday Hoedown, Lumen Printing, Salsa in the Park and much more!  

 Back by popular demand, Love Rugby 5k Fun Run returns to Whitehall Recreation Ground on Sunday 5 July, including a Family 1k, to bring Love Rugby Festival 2026 to a close. 

 

Outdoor Cinema – COMING SOON!
24–26 July 2026 

Experience movie magic in Caldecott Park. We are bringing back a bumper three days of films to Rugby town centre. Bring friends and family to enjoy the big screen. Don’t forget your blankets and chairs for unforgettable fun whilst watching favourites on the big screen. Showings at 12pm, 3pm & 6pm. 

 

Absolute PLAYHEM! - COMING SOON!
3–5 August 2026 

Absolute PLAYHEM will transform Rugby town centre into an interactive playground. Split into four pop-up play zones, families can enjoy play and fun for free as we celebrate National Play Week. Filled with exciting activities, performances, workshops, games for children and families, it’s one not to miss! 

 

Summer Sessions: Arts Festival- COMING SOON!
22 August 2026 

Bring the whole family along to Rugby for a special one-day celebration of art, creativity, and culture. This welcoming event will showcase a beautiful mix of art forms, with plenty for all ages to enjoy. Families can explore inspiring artwork, discover talented artists, take part in creative workshops, and enjoy fun hands-on activities throughout the day. With delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect day out for families looking to try something new, get creative, and make lasting memories together. 

 

Summer Sessions: Theatre in the Park- COMING SOON!
23 August 2026 

Join Peter and his naughty cousin Benjamin at Caldecott Park on their hair-raising adventures in Quantum Theatre’s delightful adaptation of Beatrix Potter’s much-loved Tales. Performances start at 12pm and 3pm.  

Expect creative crafts for all family, make something to take away and enjoy during the performance. This is an outdoor production, so please bring fold-away chairs, blankets and a picnic, and come dressed for the weather!  

 

Autumn Food & Drink Festival
19 September 2026 

Get ready to taste the best of Rugby! Our Autumn Food & Drink Festival brings together incredible flavours, street food, artisan producers, and refreshing drinks for a day packed with delicious discoveries, live entertainment and family fun. Celebrate the flavours of the harvest season and learn something new at the cookery demonstrations on the live stage. 

 

Literary Festival
23–25 October 2026 

Discover a packed programme of events and workshops at Rugby Literary Festival. Learn, listen and participate through meet the author sessions, live talks and creative workshops for book lovers of all ages. The Literary Festival brings together authors, poets, speakers, and storytellers, discover new ideas, meet inspiring guests, and celebrate the power of words and storytelling. 

 

Halloween Celebrations
30–31 October 2026 

Get ready for frightful fun! Join us on 30–31 October 2026 in Rugby town centre for our spooky Halloween Celebrations, featuring seasonal activities, festive decorations, and plenty of Halloween fun for the whole family. 

 

Diwali Celebration
1 November 2026 

Join us for an unforgettable Diwali celebration featuring performances, cultural displays, delicious cuisine, family activities, and live entertainment. Gather with friends, family, and neighbours as we celebrate the joy of the Festival of Lights. 

 

Christmas Celebrations
Dates to be Announced 

Christmas in Rugby will see Rugby’s Christmas Light Switch On and Lantern Parade return. You will be able to enjoy an array of festive activities including Santa’s grotto, Christmas markets and a brand-new Advent Window Trail for 2026!  

 

Lunar New Year Celebrations
Date to be Announced 

Join us in Rugby Town Centre as we celebrate Lunar New Year! Experience a rich display of culture, tradition, and festivity as we welcome the new lunar year.