The 2020 Sidmouth events we can still look forward to

Sidmouth may have lost some of its headline social events this year but there are still some events we can, at the moment, look forward to.

Since the Coronavirus lock down came into place Sidmouth Folk Festival, Sidmouth Sea Fest and Sidmouth Literary Festival have all been cancelled.

There are however some events later on in the year which, at the time of writing (April 8), are still scheduled to go ahead.

Here are the the the 2020 Sidmouth events we can still look forward to, according to the Visit Sidmouth website:

Sidbury Fair – September 13 to September 17

"Sidbury was granted a charter for a Fair in 1291 by Edward I when he was up in Berwick upon Tweed. The fair was to be held for three days to cover the feast of the Virgin Mary in September. Hot Pennies are still thrown into the street for the children to collect - a boon for the equally impoverished villagers of the time, and still continues today.

"Sidbury Fair has grown over the years with local produce and craft stalls, competitions etc. and a livestock auction still takes place. Over the years the fair has extended to a whole week of events and gives local clubs and organisations an opportunity to raise funds. The fair committee is made up of local residents."

Sidmouth Walking Festival – September 19 to September 25

"Our Area of Outstanding Natural Beatuty is the perfect walking spot, whatever time of year. but for one week each September, The Sidmouth and East Devon Walking Festival takes place, where you can discover our hidden gems over w=a week of free guided walks.

"Enjoy scenic walks accrfoss coast and country, whatever your age or ability. Join shorter, special interest walks led by experts in their field or circular walks taking in the scenic surroundings. Five daily walks cover the 40 mile East Devon Way, stretching form Lyme Regis to Exmouth.

"For the more adventurous, tackle the new 13 mile Sid Valley Ring and be rewarded with dramatic views of the Jurassic coast.

"Pack your walking boots and set your course for Sidmouth, where discovery awaits."

Sidmouth Classic Car Show – September 19 to September 25

"Sidmouth Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Crash Box & Classic Car Club of Devon, has been holding the Sidmouth Classic Car Show since 2012. With continued promotion, it has become bigger each year with a really diverse and interesting range of cars on display."

It unclear if this year's Sidmouth Classic Car show will go ahead, the organisers have put a decision on the event on hold while the Coronavirus pandemic continues.

The organisers, Sidmouth Chamber of Commerce, Crash Box and Classic Car Club of Devon, are hoping the event in September can still go ahead but are continually reviewing the situation.

Sidmouth Illuminated Carnival – September 26

This truly community organise event take place every year at the end of September.

Businesses, community groups, charities and other organisations come together to celebrate everything Sidmouth. It is widdely thought of as one of the best carnival events in East Devon.

Sidmouth Science Festival – October 10 to October 18

"The ninth Sidmouth Science Festival runs from Saturday 10th to Sunday 18th October 2020 with the theme of "Science in our Lives".

"The events during the week will cater for all ages and abilities with projects and demonstrations taking place in schools and colleges and throughout the town. Serious science talks and fun hands-on events take place on Super Science Saturday17th and at the Family Fun Day on Sunday 18th at the Norman Lockyer Observatory.

"Ada Lovelace Day on Tuesday 13th October, an international celebration of the achievements of women in science, will feature eminent female scientists.

"Various community groups will contribute events during the week, too."

Christmas Lights 'Switch On' and Late Night Shopping – November 21 and December 4

The details of this year's event have not yet been announced but last year the Switch On event featured beautiful illuminations, courtesy of Sidmouth Town Council as well as carol singing and live music and entertainment. Plus on December 4 the town's shops will be staying open for late night shopping. A great way to get into the Christmas spirit.

Sidmouth Boxing Day Swim – December 26

Almost every year the town comes out in force to brave the chilly waters off Sidmouth as part of the Sidmouth Boxing Day Swim. After last year's event was cancelled due to safety concerns we're sure there will plenty of fancy dress clad Sidmouthians ready and willing to take the plunge.