The New Forest National Park (home to New Forest Clothing) is nestled in the gorgeous southern county of Hampshire. Many people visit to enjoy the coast as well as the expanse of stunning British countryside, local wildlife and the quaint and varied villages that scatter the area.
In the summer, the New Forest becomes a hive of activity however the past two years big events, festivals, shows and celebrations have unfortunately been cancelled due to a certain pandemic. Hopefully in 2022 ordinary service will hopefully resume as things start returning to normal. So, grab those diaries as here are some of the most popular events set to happen in the New Forest National Park and surrounding area.
April & May
Downton Cuckoo Fair: 30 - 31 April
Traditionally the arrival of the cuckoo was seen as the onset of good weather and the Downton tradition of “opening the gate” to let the cuckoo through is said to be the basis of this fair. The first Downton Cuckoo Fair was officially recorded in 1530 and today, the Downton Cuckoo Fair is friendly, fun and free to enjoy. With a family-friendly festival atmosphere, the fair is held in the picturesque village of Downton, south of Salisbury on the edge of the New Forest.
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The BBC Gardeners' World Spring Fair: 29 April - 1 May
Taking place in the stunning grounds of Beaulieu, what better way to inspire your gardening year than by attending this event in Spring. This Spring Fair promises to be packed with planting ideas, and stunning floral displays from top nurseries. Gardening fanatics will not want to miss out on what promises to be a fabulous day out.
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June
Christchurch Food Festival: 2 - 5 June
This gourmet festival is a fast-growing event, and has developed into a popular attraction drawing people to the picturesque town and riverside quay setting. Over four days, traders and suppliers sell ingredients, cakes, cooking utensils, wines, liqueurs and lots more besides, as well as delicious snacks to eat there and then.
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Dogstival: 4 - 5 June
Dogstival, the coolest dog show in town is back with a special Jubilee edition at a stunning new venue of Broadlands Park, Romsey! The ultimate day out for you and your dog the festival is jam packed with have a go activities, main arena displays, shopping, live music, talks, dog diving pool and delicious food and drink for you and your four legged friend.
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July
New Forest & Hampshire County Show: 26 - 28 July
The New Forest Show started as a small, one-day agricultural Show in 1920 and has developed into a three-day spectacular. Taking place in Brockenhurst in the heart of the National Park, the New Forest Show offers visitors 30 acres of showground for the whole family to explore. Showcasing the very best of the New Forest and Hampshire, there's something for the whole family to enjoy at the New Forest and Hampshire County Show.
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August
Beaulieu Supercar Weekend: 6 - 7 August
This must-see family spectacular that brings some of the world’s most exclusive and desirable motors to Beaulieu. One of the biggest Supercar events on the South Coast. It is a must for all supercar enthusiasts, providing an opportunity to get almost close enough to touch some pretty impressive motors.
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Ellingham Show: 13 August
Set in the magnificent grounds of the Somerley Estate, near Ringwood, the Ellingham & Ringwood show began in 1947 and 2022 will mark the 75th anniversary of this family friendly country show. It has grown to include many exciting attractions, livestock, good food and shopping opportunities.
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Great Dorset Steam Fair: 25 - 29 August
The Great Dorset Steam Fair has been entertaining thousands of people for decades and the popular festival returns from Thursday, August 25, until Monday, August 29. This year's event will feature a Modern Classic Motorcycle Section for the first time in the event's history. The fair usually features a World War One commemoration, stunt displays, historic and classic motor vehicles, food and drink stalls, a fairground and live music.
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September
Bournemouth Air Festival: 1 - 4 September
The 14th Bournemouth Air Festival will take to the skies between Thursday, September 1 and Sunday, September 4. Last year saw the Red Arrows return for all four days of the spectacular event after a two-year gap. Other displays that went ahead in 2021 included the RAF Typhoon, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, Ultimate Warbird Flights, RAF Chinook, Super Pitts Muscle Plane and The Blades. This year’s line-up is still yet to be revealed but planning is now well under way.
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Southampton International Boat Show: 16-25 September
Britain’s biggest festival of boating features everything the leisure marine industry has to offer. Ranging from paddleboards to superyachts, and all the products and services you need to enjoy life in, on or around the water – you’ll find it at the show. The 53rd edition of the show will offer plenty of expert advice and exciting opportunities to get afloat!
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