What's On in Wiltshire this May

There’s plenty of exciting events happening in Wiltshire this May. From the start of the festival season to plenty of action-packed family activities, be sure to plan your visit this month…

Festivals in Wiltshire

Wiltshire welcomes you to enjoy its vibrant programme of exciting festivals, taking place across the county this month. From music and history to food and drink, there’s plenty for everyone!

Downton Cuckoo Fair

Head to Downton, just south of Salisbury, for the town’s annual Cuckoo Fair! Open from 10am-4:30pm, there will be lots of things to entertain visitors including over 250 craft and produce stalls, maypole and morris dancing, street entertainment, music and much more!

Bradford on Avon Music Festival 2025

The Live Music Festival returns to Bradford on Avon this year with an even bigger lineup of local talent. From Friday 29 to Sunday 31 May, Bradford on Avon will come alive with incredible performances at venues across the town!

Swindon Festival of Literature

Visit Swindon at the beginning of this month for their annual Festival of Literature, celebrating over 30 years of this event, through a week of historic talks with local authors and the community. Hear from a range of authors and discover more about the fascinating and insightful world of literature and writing.

Chippenham Folk Festival

Chippenham Folk Festival returns this month, with over 600 artists and performers already confirmed! This unique in-town festival will be another memorable folk weekend of music, dance and entertainment from across the UK and beyond.

Salisbury International Arts Festival

This year, Salisbury International Arts Festival will be transforming the city into a stage for imagination, collaboration, and celebration. Their landmark production of Romeo and Juliet marks 50 years of Salisbury Playhouse, turning the building and surrounding spaces into the streets and homes of Verona! There will also be an outstanding range of artists performing at the Festival. From music and theatre to dance, conversations and immersive storytelling, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss this chance to explore, be inspired, and celebrate the arts in Salisbury!

Family Fun Events in Wiltshire

This month, Wiltshire is host to a full range of exciting activities, perfect for the whole family! Across the county, there will be plenty events taking place including action packed shows, outdoor festivities and much more…

Bradford on Avon Duck Race

Taking place on the first May Bank Holiday Monday is Bradford on Avon’s annual Duck Race. Every year, hundreds flock to the riverside town to take part or simply watch the spectacle that is the Bradford on Avon tradition. The race will begin at 12 noon and throughout the day, there will be plenty of fun games, food and drink to enjoy.

Spring in the Park, Warminster

Spring in the Park returns to Warminster at the beginning of May and this year, and visitors can explore a range of local traders and charities as well as entertainment throughout the day.

Salisbury Art Trail

Hosted by Plain Arts Salisbury, Salisbury Art Trail takes you on a journey through artists homes, studios and galleries, offering the opportunity to meet the artists as they share their work, provide taster sessions and enlivening galleries, shops and cafes across 2 weeks starting this month!

People in the Park, Salisbury

Taking place in Elizabeth Gardens is Salisbury’s People in the Park. Expect a day of live music, community stallholders, food and local environmentally friendly businesses. This free event aims to showcase the city’s green organisations, projects and businesses.

May Day Madness

Head to Castle Combe Circuit for their second Race Meeting in the Racing Club Championship Calendar. Their May Madness event will feature racing from Saloons, GTs, Formula Fords, Hot Hatches and more! An ideal day out for petrol heads!

Credit Paul Tiller

Sunset at the Trust

The Hawk Conservancy Trust invites you to a special summer's evening with their feathered friends. Against a setting sun, you'll have the opportunity to meet a wide range of their incredible birds of prey and the dedicated team working alongside them over two flying displays.

Behind the Scenes Tour at Salisbury Museum

Join the Salisbury Museum for an exclusive, in-person tour exploring what lies beyond the galleries. Discover hidden treasures, untold stories and fascinating artefacts that aren’t on public display!

Find out what else is on in Wiltshire this month…