Wells Community Day
Priddy Folk Festival is a three day festival held in July in the centre of the Mendip AONB. The festival grew from a PTA fundraiser over 30 years ago to the highly respected festival that attracts thousands of visitors and hosts high quality performers from across the UK and Europe. There are ticketed concerts and lots of free attractions for a day out. The festival is still run entirely by volunteers but now is a registered charity raising money to promote music performance and works with The Blue School in Wells to give performance opportunities to students.
Priddy Folk Festival
Wells Art Contemporary returns to Wells Cathedral in October. Established in 2012, WAC is an international open competition showcasing innovative contemporary art, while Wells Cathedral offers an inspiring setting to all artists, regardless of background, with wonderful spaces and light.
Over 20 large scale installations in the body of the cathedral, over 100 gallery works in the cloisters and collaborative works from the local community make for an exceptional show. In 2026 the theme for the Installations will be “What is Time?” from St Augustine.
Come and talk to us about entering the show or helping to put it on! https://www.wellsartcontemporary.co.uk
Wells Art Contemporary
Wells City Carnival is run by a dedicated committee of volunteers who organise the much-loved annual Wells Carnival. Our aim is simple: to bring people together for an amazing night out while raising money for local charities and good causes. We plan and deliver the illuminated carnival procession, supported by generous local businesses and volunteers. If you’d like to get involved as a sponsor or volunteer and be part of making the 2026 carnival a success, we’d love to hear from you. Find us at www.wellscitycarnival.co.uk On Facebook and Instagram @WellsCityCarnival Or email: ntoole@wellscitycarnival.co.uk
Wells City Carnival
Wells Festival of Literature Driven by a love of words, our festival is dedicated to funding educational projects which encourage local youngsters to make the most of their opportunities. Founded in 1992 by a group of avid readers, WFL enters its 34th year brimming with its original enthusiasm – to inspire tomorrow’s generation to read, read, and then carry on reading! Run by volunteers, the festival takes place in the heart of Wells every October bringing a wealth of talent to the city and providing nine days of entertainment and inspiration which in turn supports a charity that will make a difference for years to come. https://wellsfestivalofliterature.org.uk
Wells Festival of Literature
Wells Food Festival
Now in its 14th year Wells Food Festival continues to grow. The festival is one of the annual highlights in the City of Wells’ calendar, and the second Sunday in October is a firm date in many people’s diaries.
We have a consistent need for volunteers to help arrange and deliver this wonderful event. Come a join the fun.
Contact: Jon at info@wellsfoodfestival.co.uk
or Lorna at admin@wellsfoodfestival.co.uk
Wells Lantern Festival returns on 17 January 2026, a much-loved annual celebration for children and families of all ages to enjoy. Everyone is invited to join the fun by creating a glowing willow-and-tissue lantern and taking part in the evening procession through the city. Friendly lantern-making workshops take place during the weekends prior to the parade, with materials available to buy and helpers on hand for all abilities. Whether you come to craft, parade, or simply watch the lights go by, it’s a wonderful way to brighten the winter months. Follow updates and inspiration on Instagram at @wellslanternfest or Project Factory’s website www.projectfactory.uk
Wells Lantern Festival
Wells Jazz & Blues Festival Taking place over the last weekend in September, The Wells Jazz and Blues Festival is a three day event offering high-quality musical performances, all free at the point of entry to ensure accessibility for the entire community. We aim to showcase a diverse program of both renowned artists and up-and-coming jazz and blues musicians performing in pubs and cafes around the centre of Wells.
Our goals are to contribute to the vibrant cultural life of Wells and to provide a space for musicians, industry professionals, and music enthusiasts to connect.