Annual Events in Walton-on-Thames and Hersham

Walton and the surrounding Thames towns keep a full calendar of regattas, festivals and community celebrations running through the year, from the Walton and Weybridge Regatta's rowing races in early June to the Festival of Light's town-centre Christmas entertainment in late November. Most are long-running local traditions rather than one-off bookings, so the broad time of year is a reliable guide even when the exact dates move from year to year.

Each entry below shows the usual time of year alongside the next confirmed date where one has been announced. Where a date hasn't yet been confirmed for the coming year, the listing says so plainly rather than showing a stale or guessed date, and links straight through to the organiser's own page for the details that matter on the day: exact timings, road closures, ticketing and any weather-dependent changes.

  • Walton and Weybridge Regatta

    Next date to be announced (usually Early June)

    Held annually on the Thames at Walton since 1862, the Walton and Weybridge Regatta brings crews together for a packed programme of rowing races. It is one of Walton's most important sporting traditions and a natural highlight for spectators beside the river.

  • Walton Duckathon

    Next date to be announced (usually Early May Bank Holiday)

    The Duckathon is a light-hearted community fundraiser built around duck races on the Thames at Walton Wharf. It is especially popular with families and is normally accompanied by local activity around the riverside.

  • Make Music Day in Walton

    Next date to be announced (usually Around 21 June)

    Walton marks the international Make Music Day with free live performances in the town centre. The line-up and precise venue can vary, but The Heart Plaza has been a central location.

  • Walton Fayre

    Next date to be announced (usually Early July)

    This summer community event brings entertainment, performances, stalls and local organisations into Walton High Street and The Heart. It is a good occasion for discovering local groups as well as enjoying a day in the town centre.

  • Walton Heritage Festival

    Next date to be announced (usually September, often around Heritage Open Days)

    Walton's heritage programme can include guided walks, exhibitions, talks and special access or open days at local venues. It is one of the best times to explore the town's film, river and architectural history with expert context.

  • Walton Festival of Light

    Next date to be announced (usually Late November)

    The Festival of Light welcomes the Christmas season with town-centre entertainment. Previous programmes have included a Christmas market, local performances, fairground attractions and festive lights.

  • Hampton Court Palace Festival

    Next date to be announced (usually June)

    This summer concert series places major performers inside Hampton Court Palace's Tudor courtyard. Visitors can enjoy the palace setting and pre-show food or picnics before the evening performance.

  • Sunbury Amateur Regatta

    Next date to be announced (usually Mid-August)

    Sunbury's historic regatta combines competitive river racing with a community occasion. The current location and programme should always be checked because operational arrangements have changed in recent years.

  • Hampton Court Palace Food Festival

    Next date to be announced (usually August Bank Holiday weekend)

    The palace gardens host a late-summer celebration of food and drink, with producers, bars and family activities forming part of the programme. Admission arrangements can vary, so visitors should check whether palace entry or a separate booking is required.

  • Brooklands classic gatherings and motoring days

    Next date to be announced (usually Selected dates throughout the year)

    Brooklands Museum runs a changing calendar of large themed vehicle days. Recurring highlights include classic gatherings around New Year, Easter and summer, alongside marque and motorsport-focused events.

  • RHS Wisley Flower Show and Glow

    Next date to be announced (usually Flower show in early September, Glow in late autumn and winter)

    Wisley's seasonal programme includes a flower show in early autumn and an illuminated Glow trail during the festive period. Both provide a different experience from an ordinary garden visit and may use timed admission.

  • Kempton Park Christmas Festival

    Next date to be announced (usually Boxing Day and the following day)

    Kempton's Christmas Festival is built around two days of major jump racing, including the King George VI Chase on Boxing Day. It is one of the area's most established festive sporting occasions.

This page covers the evergreen annual calendar. For one-off performances, workshops, markets and other community activities, check the site's live What's On coverage, or head back to the full Things to Do in Walton-on-Thames hub.