Plymouth’s trees are taking centre stage this spring as the Plymouth Urban Tree Festival returns for 2026, bringing nine days of nature, creativity and community to locations across the city.
Running from May 9 to May 17, the festival will feature around 40 events designed to reconnect residents with Plymouth’s green spaces, from guided park walks and family activities to immersive experiences and live performances.
What is the Plymouth Urban Tree Festival?
Organised by local charity Plymouth Tree People, the festival has grown into a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar, offering something for all ages and interests, whether you’re a nature enthusiast, creative, or simply looking for a unique day out.
Across the week, visitors can take part in hands-on workshops including basket making and poetry, join a bat walk at dusk, or experience a singing workshop inspired by the natural world. Film lovers can also enjoy special screenings at Plymouth Arts Cinema, including a showing of The Magic Faraway Tree.
One of the standout events this year will take place at the Market Hall immersive dome, where attendees can experience a unique forest bathing and sound bath session, designed to promote relaxation and wellbeing through nature-inspired sensory experiences.
The festival will also welcome Lisa Schneidau, a Dartmoor-based storyteller known for bringing folklore and landscapes to life through her performances.
Meanwhile, art and community will come together throughout the week at The Almanac Café, which will host a tree-themed exhibition showcasing local creativity.
Where to join the festival across the city
Kicking things off in style, the opening day will feature the much-loved “Tree’s A Crowd” event at Victoria Park, with folk music, drumming workshops and even bio-sonification – a fascinating performance where plants are turned into live music using their natural electrical signals.
With many events free or low-cost, organisers hope the festival will encourage more people to explore the vital role trees play in urban life – from improving air quality to boosting mental wellbeing.
How to take part before the festival begins
In the lead-up to the festival, residents can also get involved online through the interactive “Where’s that tree to?” game on social media, challenging people to identify locations of Plymouth trees from daily photos.
The 2026 festival is supported by the Plymouth and South Devon Community Forest, part of a national initiative funded through DEFRA’s Trees for Climate programme.
For full event listings and details, visit the official festival website.
