Be Newquay Festival

Be Newquay Festival, a month-long celebration of Newquay’s creative spirit, will take place from 1 November – 1 December 2024 funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and managed by Cornwall Council. A new season of events for autumn made up of activities and workshops will showcase the town’s vibrant way of life and unique culture.

Credit: Kleiner Shames

The festival has been designed with community at its heart, with local organisations taking centre stage to produce a diverse programme that reflects Newquay’s identity. With many of the events free or at an affordable price, there will be plenty to take part in, from live shows, workshops and exhibitions to outdoor and well-being experiences. Reflecting the values that matter most to the local community, the Be Newquay Festival will invite everyone to discover something new and be creatively curious about the town.

Brought to you by Cornwall Council project ‘Experience Newquay’ in collaboration with its local project partners, the first wave of commissions to be announced as part of the programme include:

• Street Art Murals: led by Slapdash Studio, renowned artists Kleiner Shames, Elle Koziupa and 45 RPM will paint three street art murals. Located in the town centre, these large-scale artworks will depict various aspects of Newquay’s heritage and identity. People will be able to see them being painted and there will be street art workshops for people to have a go.
  

  
  

  Credit: Trenance Heritage Cottages

  
  

  
  
• Light Displays at Trenance Heritage Cottages and Garden Cafe: the cottages, cafe and surrounding gardens will be illuminated with themed light displays to coincide with seasonal events, adding something special for Halloween, Christmas and St. Piran’s Week. People will be able to enjoy the evening illuminations and a programme of events and performances throughout the autumn and winter.
  
  
• Winter Arts Programme: ALMA Artspace CIC has been commissioned to deliver a winter arts programme and a large-scale sculptural commission, in collaboration with artist Robin Sullivan. From 29th November - 1 December 2024, ALMA will be hosting exhibitions, workshops and events at venues throughout Newquay to brighten the winter months, celebrate Newquay’s heritage and explore its cultural potential.
  
  
  Credit: Ingrid Pop

  
  

• Monoliths: working with artist Robin Sullivan, ALMA will deliver an ambitious large-scale sculptural commission in the form of ceramic monoliths. Each monolith will be made in collaboration with the community during a series of workshops held throughout the summer where people will be able to contribute directly to the artworks whilst learning more about Newquay’s archaeological heritage.
  
  

• To the Moon and Back by Rob Mennear will combine dance, theatre, sound installation and projection to create immersive experiences that entice and surprise. Coinciding with the super full moon, this evening experience will invite people to explore spaces in the town centre that have been transformed and co-created with residents, bringing stories of Newquay’s community to life.

In addition, a wide range of creative workshops and events organised by local businesses and organisations will be happening in the town centre during the month of November. From pottery to bellyboard painting, sauna experiences to literary talks, there will be something for all ages and interests.

Visit www.benewquayfestival.co.uk and sign up to the newsletter for festival announcements, as more acts will be announced over the coming months.