Oxford Events Calendar
The annual events that define Oxford's year, from May Morning to the Christmas Market.
Oxford Literary Festival
A week of author talks, readings, and panel discussions held across venues in central Oxford, including the Bodleian Library and Sheldonian Theatre.
May Morning
Choristers sing from the top of Magdalen Tower at 6am, followed by Morris dancing and early-opening pubs across the city. Oxford's most iconic annual tradition.
Read our May Morning guideEights Week
Four days of inter-college rowing races on the Isis (Thames). College boat clubs compete in "bumps" format, chasing the boat ahead. Spectators line the towpath with picnics and Pimm's.
Encaenia
The University's annual ceremony for awarding honorary degrees, held at the Sheldonian Theatre. An academic procession in full regalia walks from Broad Street — a spectacle even for bystanders.
Cowley Road Carnival
A free street carnival along Cowley Road in East Oxford with live music, dancing, food stalls, and a parade. Reflects the area's diverse, multicultural character.
St Giles' Fair
A traditional funfair that takes over the wide boulevard of St Giles' for two days each September. Rides, games, and food stalls — it has been running since 1625.
Oxford Open Doors
A weekend each September when buildings normally closed to the public open their doors for free. A chance to see inside college chapels, halls, and historic buildings you'd otherwise miss.
Oxford Half Marathon
A 13.1-mile road race through central Oxford and the surrounding areas. The route passes many of the city's landmarks.
Oxford Christmas Market
Wooden chalets line Broad Street selling gifts, food, and mulled wine from late November through December. A compact, atmospheric market set against the backdrop of the Bodleian and Sheldonian.