Falmouth Regatta started out as a sailing competition for locals in the Falmouth area back in the 1800s and has grown over the years into a week-long festivity, celebrating sailing and the local community. As one of the biggest events on the calendar in Falmouth, the week draws in visitors from around the country to enjoy all that the town has to offer, as well as to take part in some of the exciting boat races that take place during Falmouth Week.
This year, the event will kick-start on the 10th August with a Pink Wig Night for the ladies, aiming to raise money for the Cornwall Breast Cancer Team. The evening will consist of live music performances and a raffle, as well as plenty of cocktails to enjoy as the DJ takes to the stage. From the 10th to the 18th, there will also be some exciting things happening on The Moor, with a whole host of markets and stalls selling an array of local produce to sample as live acoustic music entertains. The Moor will also be home to a climbing wall, providing some fun for both kids and adults alike.
Falmouth warms up for the regatta, getting everyone excited on Saturday 11th as the Carnival hits the town. There’s lots of fun to be had on the rides and entertainment at the rugby club from 12pm before the big carnival parade commences at 6.30pm. With the marching parade ending at Events Square, a marquee will be set up to enjoy an assortment of live music following the carnival.
The sailing aspect of the regatta begins fully on Sunday 12th, with the first of the seven clubs involved, Helford River Sailing Club, hosting the races. Monday 13th will be the Mylor Sailing Club, while the Restronguet Sailing Club will host on Tuesday 14th each seeing an assortment of traditional crafts, dinghies and keelboats taking to the waters. Wednesday 15th is the Ancasta Champagne Race Day, the biggest race that sees yachts following a 25-mile coastal course. Thursday’s events are hosted by the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club, whilst St Mawes Sailing Club hosts on Friday 17th. The final regatta day, on Saturday 18th, is held by Flushing Sailing Club. Over 450 yachts are expected to take part in the regatta over the week, making it the largest (and best) sailing regatta in the south-west.
One of the biggest days of Falmouth Week will take place on Tuesday 14th, as the Family Fun Day. The RNLI will be putting on a show, with a day of fun for free, with entertainment and music on The Quay, accompanying a number of stalls. At the Church Street car park, the Action Sports Tour will be putting on some impressive displays throughout the day and offering up taster sessions for you to give some new skills a go. In the evening, head to Falmouth Bay for the best views of the RAF Red Arrows display, which starts at 6pm.
Friday 17th August, also sees a huge assortment of activities, with the Science in the Square event providing some intriguing scientific knowledge as a fun free family event. In the evening, adults can travel back in time with the Epic 80s vs 90s Extravaganza, a themed evening of fancy dress and music from Go West and Snap! End the night with an incredible fireworks display over the stunning Falmouth Harbour at 10pm.
If you’re a fan of all things movies and comic books then don’t miss out on the Comic and Movie Fest taking place on Saturday 18th. At the free event, you can meet some of your favourite characters from comics and movies, as well as getting a photo opportunity with some of the special celebrity guests! Be sure to come along dressed as your favourite character. As the week draws to a close, the fun still continues, with a dragon boat race on Sunday 19th to really get the adrenaline pumping!
If you want to take part in this fun week celebrating Falmouth and the surrounding areas, then it is not too late to book an incredible luxury Falmouth holidays! For more events taking place in Cornwall this August, check out our complete What’s On in August guide!
Image Credit: Tim Green
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