With summer fast approaching, we thought we would bring together a snapshot of the wonderful festivals, events and exhibitions that are happening in and around Newmarket. There is truly something for everyone to enjoy so get your diaries out and start making those summer plans.

Abbey Celebrations 2022 – May onwards

A year of celebrations has been planned for  2022 in Bury St Edmunds to mark 1,000 years since the founding of the Abbey of St Edmund by King Canute.  One of the highlights over the summer is the monthly changing display of sculptures in the crypt within the Abbey ruins, where the shrine of St Edmund would have stood.  These amazing pieces of art are well worth visiting. Learn more here.

Art Unequalled Exhibition – 11th  and 12th June

One of the region’s best loved art exhibitions is back. Art Unequalled is an established event in nearby Ely, showcasing a wide range of high quality handmade work presented direct from the maker. Come and meet inspirational artists and watch them demonstrate their crafts. With artworks from £5 to £2,000, there is something for everyone!

Click here for more information.

The Cambridge Club Festival – 11th and 12th June

If music is more your thing then come and boogie at the feel-good festival featuring Diana Ross, Nile Rodgers and CHIC, The Jacksons, TLC, Level 42 and many more – plus comedy, family fun and more. This is a summer celebration to remember. Find out more here.

Crowns and Gowns II Exhibition, Ely Cathedral – 30th  June to 11th August

The sequel to one of the most popular exhibitions ever held at the magnificent Ely Cathedral. Featuring costumes from films which used UK Cathedrals as a location. The exhibition will include the famous official replica of the Queen’s Coronation dress commission by Harrods in 2012 to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee. This dress was famously worn by Claire Foy at Ely Cathedral for the sumptuous Netflix drama, The Crown. Click here to  find out more.

Mad Hatters Music Festival –  1st July to 3rd July

Three days, 2 stages and 22 bands! This is going to be one special music festival set within the beautiful fen countryside. Expect amazing children’s activities, wonderful street food, a wellness area, eco-stalls, drinks bar, neon disco, demonstrations and storyteller. Make a whole weekend of it and book your pitch or cabin at this themed camping and glamping site or just purchase day tickets.

Book your tickets here.

July Festival, Newmarket Racecourse – 7th  to 9th July

Summer isn’t summer in Newmarket without the July Festival. The eyes of the world descend to the picturesque July Course for the Moet and Chandon July Festival. Three days of world-class flat racing and fabulous fashion. Check out the full range of hospitality packages available and make this event extra special.

Find out more here.

Party at the Palace 2022, National Horseracing Museum – Saturday 23rd July

Back by popular demand, once again step back in time and immerse yourself in the decadence of the restoration period. The Museum comes to life with a multi-sensory, living history event, recreating the era through re-enactment, sights, sounds, tastes and smells. Join in with some country dancing and have fun with the 17^thcentury games. An event for all the family to enjoy.

Learn more here.

Newmarket’s Soap Box Derby – Sunday 28th August

We simply love this quirky event as teams race down the Soapbox course (aka Warren Hill) with much creative hilarity. This year the track has been extended and will have five new, exciting jumps. We can’t wait to see how the many teams tackle these new challenges in their bid for soap and glory. Come and join the fun and cheer on the brave (or do we mean fool hardy!).

Click here to find out how you could take part. 

For more ideas of what is on this summer, check out our What’s On page.