What’s on in Cambridge this August
- Published on
- August 4, 2026
What’s On in Cambridge This August 2026
August is a wonderful time to visit Cambridge. The city is full of summer events, outdoor activities, exhibitions and family-friendly experiences, making it the perfect destination for a summer break.
Whether you’re exploring the historic colleges, enjoying the city’s green spaces or looking for something new to experience, there is plenty happening across Cambridge this August.
August Highlights
Summer Activities at Cambridge University Botanic Garden
Throughout August, Cambridge University Botanic Garden is the perfect place to enjoy the summer season. Explore beautiful planting displays, enjoy peaceful walks and take part in special events happening throughout the month.
Plant Printing
4 & 5 August 2026 | 10.30am–1.30pm
Families can get creative at the Botanic Garden with a hands-on plant printing activity, using leaves and petals from the Garden to create artwork. The activity is part of the Summer with the Museums programme and is suitable for all ages.
Science on Sundays: Grass Flowers and You – A Love Story
Sunday 16 August 2026 | 2.30pm
Discover more about the fascinating world of plants with a free science talk at Cambridge University Botanic Garden. This month’s talk explores grass flowers and plant science in an engaging, accessible way.
Music in the Parks
Sunday 9 August 2026 | Jesus Green
Enjoy live music in one of Cambridge’s most beautiful outdoor spaces. Music in the Parks brings free performances to the city’s parks, making it a lovely way to spend a summer afternoon.
Architects of Air: Myriad
29–30 August 2026 | Jesus Green
Experience something completely different with Architects of Air’s Myriad installation. This immersive light-filled structure creates a unique sensory experience and is a great addition to a summer visit to Cambridge.
Out of the Ordinary Festival
29–30 August 2026 | Cambridge City Centre
The Out of the Ordinary Festival brings colour, creativity and entertainment to Cambridge at the end of August. Expect performances, activities and unusual experiences taking place around the city centre.
Theatre and Live Entertainment in Cambridge
Located in the heart of the city, the Cambridge Arts Theatre has a fantastic summer programme of drama, comedy and family-friendly performances.
Abigail’s Party
3–8 August 2026
Step back into the 1970s with Mike Leigh’s classic comedy. This much-loved play brings together sharp humour, unforgettable characters and plenty of awkward dinner party moments.
The Tale of the Loneliest Whale
14–15 August 2026
A family-friendly performance combining storytelling and imagination, perfect for younger visitors looking for something fun to enjoy during the summer holidays.
Barnum
18–22 August 2026
Enjoy the colourful world of circus, music and entertainment in this lively musical celebrating the life of showman P.T. Barnum.
Toto the Ninja Cat
25–29 August 2026
A fun family adventure based on the popular children’s books, ideal for families visiting Cambridge during the summer break.
The Cambridge Corn Exchange offers a varied programme of live entertainment throughout the year, from music and theatre to special events.
Summer on Stage 2026: Legally Blonde The Musical Jr
22 August 2026
A fun and energetic musical production bringing the much-loved story to the stage, perfect for families and musical theatre fans.
Michael Ball – Glow UK Tour
26 August 2026
Enjoy an evening with one of the UK’s most celebrated performers as Michael Ball brings his tour to Cambridge for a night of music and entertainment.
Out of the Ordinary Disco
28 August 2026
End the summer in style with a special disco event at the Corn Exchange, combining music and a fun atmosphere for a memorable evening out.
After a day exploring Cambridge’s museums, gardens and historic streets, an evening performance is a wonderful way to experience another side of the city.
Explore Cambridge Beyond the Events
August is also the perfect time to enjoy some of Cambridge’s classic experiences. Take a relaxing punt along the River Cam, explore the city’s historic colleges, visit world-class museums or enjoy a walk through the beautiful Fellows’ Garden at Christ’s College.
After a day exploring, return to the comfort and character of Christ’s College. Founded in 1505, our historic surroundings have welcomed generations of students, scholars and visitors — including famous alumni such as Charles Darwin and John Milton.
Located in the heart of Cambridge, our accommodation provides the perfect base for discovering the city and enjoying everything happening this summer.
If you are looking for somewhere to stay Our Cambridge B&B rooms are simple and affordable, and many have an en-suite bathroom. As a guest of the College, you are welcome to explore the beautiful grounds which are steeped in history and are home to Milton’s Mulberry Tree and Darwin’s Garden.
To find out more about the Bed and Breakfast accommodation we offer visit https://www.christscollegehospitality.co.uk/
Book directly with us and you will receive 10 percent off our publicised rates and a welcome pack on arrival. Just set up a member login on our website before you book.
Plan your Cambridge summer stay and experience the city at its best this August. For more ideas of what to do take a look at our Summer in Cambridge Guide
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