June Boom 2025: Your Guide to Exeter’s Month of Culture
Posted by Stephanie Darkes on May 15, 2025
The Countdown is On!
June Boom is coming, and it’s set to transform our city into a thriving cultural hotspot for an entire month!
As someone who’s spent years hunting down the best of Exeter’s events and hidden gems, I can honestly say this lineup has me more excited than ever. From reggae stars and comedy legends to art markets and literary festivals, there’s truly something for everyone.
Bumper Weekend: The Ultimate Kickoff (7-8 June)
Mark your diaries for the first weekend of June – it’s going to be HUGE. The beloved Exeter Respect Festival will take over Belmont Park with its meaningful theme of “Peace and Harmony Between Communities.” If you haven’t experienced this celebration of diversity before, you’re in for a treat. With around 20,000 visitors expected, you’ll get to enjoy performances from international reggae star Da Fuchaman, Soul of the City Gospel Choir (my choir family), plus a vibrant mix of dance, street food, and community activities.
Dr. Suaad Genem from the festival says: “Exeter Respect Festival is unique. Its message of diversity, equality, and human rights has remained the same since 1997, and it’s the biggest celebration of its kind in the South West.”
But wait – that’s just ONE event happening that weekend! The same days will see:
- Exeter Comedy Festival (5-8 June): With over 60 shows across 15 unique venues, expect everything from big names to rising stars testing new material. I’m particularly looking forward to catching some intimate gigs in independent shops – such a brilliant concept!
- Heritage Harbour Festival (8 June): One for the family! Head down to the Quay for steamboats, classic cars, live music, and street entertainment. Perfect for a sunny June day by the water.
- Exeter UNESCO City of Literature Book Market (8 June): As a self-confessed bookworm, I’m excited about this one, especially given that my new Instagram bestie @history_with_soul is speaking. Cathedral Green will transform into a haven for book lovers with local authors, independent publishers, and literary organisations gathering in one of Exeter’s most stunning settings.
And That’s Just the Beginning…
The cultural feast continues throughout June:
- Art Week Exeter (9-15 June): I look forward to this every year! A city-wide celebration of creativity with exhibitions, performances, and workshops popping up everywhere. My insider tip: Don’t miss the Art Car Boot on 15 June at Piazza Terracina – where artists turn their car boots into pop-up galleries.
- Reclaim Festival (9-14 June): A powerful week celebrating women’s contributions to the arts through performances, panel discussions, and networking events.
- Magdalen Road Creative Street Festival (21 June): Our beloved ‘village street in the heart of the city’ comes alive with music, crafts, demonstrations, food stalls, and more. If you’ve never explored Magdalen Road before, this is the perfect introduction.
Exciting New Addition: Exeter Quayside Farmers’ Market
Something brand new for 2025! The Exeter Quayside Farmers’ Market will have its grand opening on June 21 at Piazza Terracina. As someone who loves supporting local producers, I can’t wait to explore the variety of locally sourced produce, artisanal goods, plants, and more. I’ll definitely be getting there early to catch the freshest picks!
Venues Alive with Talent
Beyond the festivals, our fantastic venues will be bursting with performances throughout June. From Jimmy Tarbuck and Katherine Ryan bringing the laughs, to emerging musicians and tribute acts celebrating classics from the Beatles and Queen.
Theatre lovers can enjoy everything from local Shakespeare performances to “Pride and Prejudice* (*Sort Of)” – an all-female adaptation of Austen’s beloved classic. And families won’t want to miss Theatretrain’s production of Aladdin Junior.
My Top Picks
With so much happening, it’s hard to choose highlights, but if I had to pick my personal must-sees:
- The Exeter Respect Festival – always a heartwarming celebration
- Art Car Boot – unique treasures to be found!
- The brand new Quayside Farmers’ Market – supporting local is so important
- Pride and Prejudice* (*Sort Of) at the Northcott – I’ve heard incredible things about this production
Plan Your June Boom Adventure
As Martin Berry, Creative Director of Exeter Northcott Theatre, beautifully puts it: “June Boom is a vibrant showcase of Exeter’s arts, culture, and creativity. It’s a brilliant opportunity to support talented artists, open up our venues to new audiences, and celebrate everything that makes the city’s cultural scene so special.”
I couldn’t agree more! This June, our city will be buzzing with creativity, culture, and community spirit – and I, for one, can’t wait to experience it all.
For full event details and updates. And of course, keep an eye on Exploring Exeter – I’ll be sharing my experiences and behind-the-scenes peeks throughout the month!
Which events are you most excited about? Let me know in the comments!
Stephanie x
Exploring Exeter is an independent blogzine passionate about showcasing the best of our wonderful city. For more local events and Exeter adventures, subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on social media.
Tags: children, Devon, Exeter, family, south west, Theatre