If you live in Cumbria or you are planning to spend more time in the Lakes in 2026, you are in for a treat. From massive festivals to big sporting weekends and exciting arts news, there is plenty to spark your excitement. Here are five things we cannot wait for in the Lake District next year.
1. Kendal Calling 2026: Thursday 30th July to Sunday 2th August
Music lovers, this is the one you have been waiting for. Kendal Calling returns to Lowther Deer Park with one of its biggest line-ups yet. The festival brings major names and local favourites together in four days of unforgettable live music and good vibes. Headliners include Scissor Sisters, Biffy Clyro, The Kooks, Wolf Alice and Two Door Cinema Club, with many more acts across multiple stages. It has become one of the most talked about festivals in the UK summer calendar and a highlight of the Lake District season.
Whether you are there for the big acts or the smaller stages and art installations, Kendal Calling is all about community, style, and that festival buzz in the heart of Cumbria. The event site transforms into the third largest town in the county while it runs, and it’s an experience that brings thousands together from across the UK and beyond.
2. Old Laundry Theatre Becomes The Victoria Wood Theatre
Arts and culture fans have a lovely reason to celebrate next year. The Old Laundry Theatre in Bowness-on-Windermere will be renamed The Victoria Wood Theatre from 2026. This change honours one of Britain’s most loved comedic and creative voices, Victoria Wood, who had a long and special relationship with the venue.
To mark the renaming, the theatre will open its new season with Fourteen Again, a musical featuring songs from Victoria Wood’s Lucky Bag and new writing by acclaimed playwright Tom MacRae. The gala event falls on 19 May, which is Wood’s birthday and makes the celebration even more fitting.
This is big news for the local arts scene. The theatre has always been a creative hub in the Lakes and this new chapter promises to attract even more theatre goers, performers, and creators to the region.
3. Keswick Mountain Festival: Friday 15th to Sunday 17th May
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Keswick Mountain Festival is the ultimate long weekend. Running from 15 to 17 May 2026, the festival celebrates adventure in all its forms with sports, hikes, talks, live music and so much more.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Derwentwater and the surrounding fells, you can choose from trail runs, bike events, triathlons, open-water swims and guided hikes. There’s also a festival village full of food stalls, music and outdoor brand stands.
It’s a perfect celebration of what makes the Lakes awesome — whether you want to push yourself physically, hear from inspiring speakers, or just soak up the lively, friendly atmosphere right in Keswick town.
4. Great North Swim, Windermere: Friday 12th to Sunday 14th June
Summer really kicks in with the return of the Great North Swim at Windermere from 12 to 14 June 2026. This is one of the UK’s biggest open water swimming events, and it attracts thousands of participants and spectators every year.
The swim is set in the breathtaking surroundings of Windermere and Brockhole, and it offers options for all abilities. You can take on distances from family-friendly half-mile swims to the challenge of a 10km open-water route. It is all about the joy of swimming, community spirit and the scenery that only the Lake District can provide.
Even if you are not swimming yourself, the atmosphere on the lakeside during this weekend is brilliant. You will find picnics, cheering crowds, and plenty of people celebrating their own achievements.
Make the Most of 2026 in the Lakes
From music and theatre to outdoor challenges and thoughtful discourse, 2026 is shaping up to be a year of moments to remember in the Lake District. Whether you are planning Which festivals to go to, daring yourself to swim Windermere, or finding time for theatre and books, there is something for everyone.
Mark these dates now and keep an eye out for tickets and announcements as each event gets closer. You won’t want to miss a single one.
