Dart Music Festival 2025
Dart Music Festival returns to the beautiful riverside town of Dartmouth from 16–18 May 2025, transforming one of Devon's most picturesque destinations into a vibrant celebration of live music. With more than 100 acts performing across over 20 venues, the festival has become one of the UK's best-loved free music events.
From rock, folk, jazz and blues to classical, acoustic, soul and contemporary music, the festival showcases an extraordinary range of genres across churches, historic buildings, riverside stages, pubs and outdoor performance spaces. Every venue is within easy walking distance, allowing visitors to discover new artists while exploring Dartmouth's historic streets and waterfront.
Entirely organised by volunteers, Dart Music Festival is built around the philosophy of "Music for All", creating an inclusive event that welcomes music lovers of every age while supporting local businesses, charities and the wider community.
Why Visit Dart Music Festival?
Few festivals offer the same combination of outstanding live music and spectacular scenery. Rather than spending the weekend in a single arena, visitors can wander around Dartmouth discovering performances in unique locations including churches, historic landmarks, hotels, cafés and outdoor stages overlooking the River Dart.
The festival's relaxed atmosphere encourages exploration, making every visit different. Whether you're interested in discovering new artists, enjoying established performers or simply soaking up the atmosphere beside the river, Dart Music Festival offers one of the UK's most enjoyable free music weekends.
Nearly Three Decades of Music
Founded to encourage visitors back to Dartmouth after the quieter winter months, Dart Music Festival has grown from a small local event into one of the South West's largest free music festivals.
Over the years, the festival has expanded to feature more than 100 performers across a wide variety of venues while remaining true to its original mission of making high-quality live music accessible to everyone. Organised entirely by volunteers, it continues to support local businesses, nurture emerging talent and contribute significantly to Dartmouth's cultural life.
Music Across Dartmouth
One of Dart Music Festival's defining features is its incredible variety of venues. Performances take place throughout the town, from the lively Bandstand Stage in Royal Avenue Gardens to historic churches, Bayards Cove Fort, The Flavel Arts Centre, hotels, cafés, pubs and riverside locations.
Every venue is within walking distance, allowing visitors to create their own festival experience while exploring Dartmouth's historic streets and waterfront throughout the weekend.
Music for Every Taste
Dart Music Festival celebrates musical diversity. Across the weekend, audiences can enjoy rock, indie, jazz, blues, folk, Americana, orchestral performances, choirs, acoustic artists, sea shanties, singer-songwriters and contemporary bands.
This eclectic programme means every visitor can discover something new while enjoying performances from both nationally recognised artists and talented local musicians.
Explore Historic Dartmouth
Festival weekend is the perfect opportunity to explore one of Devon's most attractive coastal towns. Dartmouth is famous for its historic harbour, medieval streets, independent shops, waterside restaurants and maritime heritage.
Many visitors combine the festival with boat trips along the River Dart, walks around Dartmouth Castle, visits to Blackpool Sands or exploring the beautiful South Devon coastline, making the festival an ideal weekend break as well as a music event.
A Festival for Everyone
Dart Music Festival welcomes visitors of all ages. The town-centre layout, free performances and wide variety of musical styles make it ideal for families, couples and groups of friends.
Children can experience live music throughout the weekend while parents enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, riverside setting and excellent food and drink available from Dartmouth's many cafés, restaurants and pubs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Dart Music Festival held?
The festival takes place throughout Dartmouth in South Devon, with performances across more than 20 venues including outdoor stages, churches, pubs and arts venues.
Is Dart Music Festival free?
Yes. The festival is free to attend, although visitors are encouraged to purchase programmes, wristbands or make donations to help support the volunteer-run event.
What music can I expect?
The programme features rock, jazz, folk, blues, classical, soul, Americana, acoustic performances, choirs and much more, reflecting the festival's "Music for All" philosophy.
Is the festival suitable for families?
Yes. Its town-centre location, free performances and relaxed atmosphere make it a popular choice for families and visitors of all ages.
How many venues are used?
More than 20 official venues host performances across Dartmouth, all within easy walking distance of one another.
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