The Great Cornish Sardine Festival has not announced dates for 2027. The 2026 festival ran on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 August at Newlyn Harbour, its second year after debuting in 2025.
The 2026 programme centred on the fish, the crews who catch it and the culture of the working harbour: charcoal-grilled sardines at the Argoe restaurant, tours of modern ring-net boats and historic luggers from the Cornish Maritime Trust, and a marquee stage running live music from noon until dusk, opening with Mousehole Male Voice Choir on the Saturday. A local artists’ corner and stalls selling fresh sardines to take away rounded out the two days.
The Cornish Sardine Management Association runs the festival with Newlyn Harbour Lights and the Argoe restaurant. Newlyn stays a working port throughout, so festival-goers share the harbour with boats and pontoons in daily use.
Visitor information
Dates: Not yet announced for 2027. The 2026 festival ran 29-30 August.
Venue: Newlyn Harbour in Newlyn.
Admission: Not yet confirmed for 2027. The organiser’s 2026 recap page listed no separate entry charge, with food and drink sold on the day.
Programme: The 2026 line-up is described above. Check the organiser’s website for a 2027 date and programme before planning a trip.
Where to stay
Newlyn is the festival base, with Penzance nearby. Browse places to stay around Penzance.
