Sunday 6th September 2026
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Bideford Quay
12 midday
Sun 20th July, 2025
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The next Water Festival is Sunday 6th September 2026.
2025 “Sailing Through Time – 100 years of Bideford Rotary" was a fantastic success. 30 boats took part, and the 2025 boat builders were, without doubt, the finest ever in our 100 year history of Rotary in Bideford. You helped us to raise MORE THAN £10,000 for good causes.
Step aboard for a one-of-a-kind journey through history as we mark 101 years of Bideford Rotary with this year’s special theme: “101 years of Bideford Rotary". The 2026 Bideford Water Festival promises an unforgettable day packed with vibrant community spirit, historic tributes, and maritime fun.
Join us at the Quay for a family-friendly celebration featuring live performances, themed floats, and a huge range of market stalls, games, and water-based spectacles. Whether you’re reliving the roaring 1920s or imagining the future, there’s something for everyone – and joining in the fun of the Water Festival is free for all.
Keep an eye on our Facebook page for updates, highlights from past festivals, and this year’s programme as it unfolds. Let’s celebrate a century of service, togetherness and adventure – right here in the heart of Bideford.
Browse last year's photos
£20.00
Registration required
Build and decorate your cardboard boat and sail it against others, either on your own or with a crew, for a chance to win prizes!
£20.00
Registration required
Build and decorate your cardboard boat and sail it against others, either on your own or with a crew, for a chance to win prizes!
Registration required
Registration required
Registration required
Arts & Crafts
Doggy Bakes of Westward Ho, providing a range of handmade fruit and vegetable based dog treats, along with a small bought in range of chews and Yak Bars.
Charity
Tarka Rotary is a club that raises money for local charities and helps out in the community.
Arts & Crafts
Handmade children's clothes
Charity
The Appledore Book Festival is one of the most vibrant cultural Festivals in the UK. It runs in September and is your chance to hear about new ideas, books and meet authors.
Charity
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Devon Wildlife Trust has spent 60 years protecting the county’s wildlife and wild places. As the only charity focused solely on Devon’s land and sea, we believe a thriving natural world is vital — and possible when enough people care and act.
Food & Drink
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A little from-home bakery supplying cookies, cookie pies, cakes and various delicious slices to crave any sweet tooth.
