Discover the best events in East Cambridgeshire this May.
From vibrant food festivals to historic celebrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a selection of events happening in the region this month:
Ely Market’s Foodie Friday
Date: April – August
Location: Ely
On the last Friday of each month, Ely Market transforms into a buzzing hub of flavour and fun for Foodie Friday. Tuck into a mouth-watering mix of street food from local favourites and exciting new vendors, all served up alongside live music and laid-back entertainment. Whether you’re catching up with friends or bringing the whole family, it’s the perfect way to kick-start your weekend.
Ely’s Eel Festival
A true spring highlight, Ely’s Eel Festival celebrates the city’s unique history. This year will be extra special, as the festival incorporates events to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.
The famously decorated ‘Eel Parade’ will depart at 10.30am from Cross Green and mark the beginnings of the celebrations. There will be live entertainment, food stalls, crafts – and of course the traditional ‘Eel Throwing’ event. (The event does not use real eels.)
In the foodie zone, local vendors will be joined by a selection of musicians from the Ely Folk Festival. You’ll find over 70 stalls offering a range of artisan food and crafts, along with a vibrant street food scene.
As part of the VE80 themed events, the festival will be welcoming the Knightingales; a dynamic harmony trio who bring the classics to life with stunning vocals, vintage glamour, and infectious energy.
This year’s festival will also see the return of the Ely’s Eel Food Trail, a celebration of the culinary creativity of local food producers all inspired by and, in many cases, featuring eel!
A full list of all the eateries and shops taking part will be available on-line at the link below.
Soham Carnival and Heavy Horse Show
Date: 25th May
Location: Soham
The Soham Carnival and Heavy Horse Show is back for its 72nd year! A much-loved tradition, the carnival is a fantastic family-friendly event featuring a grand parade, live entertainment, funfair rides, and impressive displays of heavy horses.
Please note: This event has no on-site parking facilities. If disabled parking is required, please contact the organisers. No dogs allowed.
Keep up to date on the soon-to-be-accounted event schedule via the link below.
VE and VJ 80th Anniversary Commemorations
Date: Throughout May
Location: Throughout East Cambs
This year marks the 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe (VE) Day and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day. Communities across the region will be hosting commemorative events, offering opportunities for reflection and celebration.
Events will be held on national and local levels to commemorate the anniversaries and the end of the Second World War.
This interactive website shares information and resources, including ways to get involved in the commemorations. The site also has downloadable street party packs, logos, activity packs for children and an interactive map of events.
If your local community would like to host an event, you can apply for a grant from the National Lottery Community Fund. Grants will be available to host community events, activities and exhibitions to help tell the stories of the Second World War at a local level, ensuring the legacy of the war and its impact on individuals and communities across the country is not forgotten.
With so many exciting events happening, May is the perfect time to explore East Cambridgeshire. Whether you’re after family fun, foodie delights, or lively entertainment, there’s something for everyone.
Got an event you’d like to share? Get in touch and we’ll add it to our next guide!