Festivals & Seasonal Highlights

Grantham

12 miles. NG32 1PE

MID-AUGUST The Firework Championships at Belvoir Castle are a spectacular summer event set against one of the region’s most dramatic historic backdrops. Teams compete to deliver choreographed firework displays, accompanied by live entertainment and food stalls. A memorable evening experience combining fireworks, music and stunning views of the castle and surrounding countryside.

Festivals & Seasonal Highlights

Stapleford

6 miles. LE14 2EF

AUGUST BANK HOLIDAY The Stapleford Miniature Railway is a popular August Bank Holiday attraction set within the grounds of Stapleford Hall. Visitors can enjoy rides on a historic miniature railway, offering a nostalgic experience for all ages. A charming local event that combines heritage, engineering and a relaxed countryside setting.

Festivals & Seasonal Highlights

Melton Mowbray

4 miles. LE14 2UG

OCTOBER Xtreme Scream is a high-energy Halloween event designed for thrill-seekers, featuring themed scare mazes, live actors and atmospheric night-time attractions. Set within Twinlakes Park, the event transforms the site into a spooky experience with varied scare levels. A popular seasonal attraction for those looking for something more adrenaline-fuelled in October.

Festivals & Seasonal Highlights

Cosby

18 miles. LE9 1SD

EARLY SEPTEMBER The Victory Show is one of the UK’s largest World War II re-enactment events, bringing history to life through immersive displays and living history camps. Visitors can explore military vehicles, period trade stalls and detailed historical recreations. A fascinating event for history enthusiasts and families alike, offering an engaging and educational experience.

Festivals & Seasonal Highlights

Melton Mowbray

3 miles. LE13 1DP

MID-NOVEMBER Choc Fest is a chocolate-themed festival bringing together chocolatiers, sweet treats and gift stalls in Melton Mowbray. Visitors can browse a wide range of chocolate products alongside seasonal food and drink. A popular autumn event that’s ideal for festive shopping and indulging in handcrafted confectionery from independent producers.

Festivals & Seasonal Highlights

Melton Mowbray

3 miles. LE13 1DP

EARLY OCTOBER The Melton Food Festival is a flagship event celebrating Melton Mowbray’s reputation as the Rural Capital of Food. The festival brings together local producers, street food traders and artisan makers offering tastings, demonstrations and seasonal specialities. A lively weekend that highlights the region’s food culture while supporting independent producers and local businesses.

Festivals & Seasonal Highlights

Market Harborough

19 miles. LE16 7QE

END OF AUGUST The Leicestershire County Show is a large-scale agricultural show celebrating the county’s farming heritage and rural traditions. Visitors can enjoy livestock competitions, countryside demonstrations, food and drink stalls and family entertainment. A classic county show atmosphere offering something for all ages, from farming enthusiasts to families seeking a full day out.

Festivals & Seasonal Highlights

Oakham

17 miles. LE15 6AH

FIRST WEEKEND OF JUNE You just can’t beat the Rutland County Show as a fantastic day out for all the family. A microcosm of the wider countryside, the Rutland County Show brings together almost every aspect of rural living and lifestyle, from traditional crafts and livestock to the region’s finest farm machinery. A jam-packed schedule packed full of family entertainment, free activities and fabulous shopping, alongside livestock and equine showing classes and the county’s finest food and drink.

Festivals & Seasonal Highlights

Melton Mowbray

3 miles. LE13 1DP

MID-AUGUST Pie Fest is a celebration of Melton Mowbray’s most famous food, showcasing pork pies from local and regional producers. Alongside food stalls, the event includes live entertainment and family-friendly activities. A relaxed summer festival that combines local pride, traditional food and a fun atmosphere in the heart of the town.

Festivals & Seasonal Highlights

Melton Mowbray

3 miles. LE13 1DP

MID-MAY The Artisan Cheese Fair celebrates Melton Mowbray’s food heritage with a focus on British and locally produced cheeses. Visitors can sample and purchase a wide range of artisan cheeses alongside complementary food products from independent producers. A popular event for food lovers looking to discover new flavours while supporting small-scale makers and regional food traditions.

Festivals & Seasonal Highlights

Melton Mowbray

3 miles. LE13 1DP

FIRST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH The Vintage Craft Market is a relaxed monthly event in Melton Mowbray showcasing handmade crafts, vintage finds and creative gifts from local traders. Visitors can browse a varied mix of artisan stalls offering everything from home décor and artwork to jewellery and upcycled pieces. A friendly, community-focused market that’s ideal for a leisurely Sunday visit in the town centre.

Festivals & Seasonal Highlights

Melton Mowbray

3 miles. LE13 1DP

FIRST WEEKEND OF DECEMBER The Melton Christmas Market & Light Switch-On marks the start of the festive season with stalls, entertainment and seasonal food in the town centre. Visitors can enjoy Christmas shopping, live performances and the annual switching on of the town’s lights. A family-friendly event offering a festive atmosphere and a great way to kick off December.