5 fun things to do this weekend in Exeter

Here’s what’s happening in and around Exeter this weekend, from lively festivals and theatre to music, art and local food events. Enjoy!

FESTIVAL
11–12 April
Agatha Christie: Spring Gathering
A celebration of Agatha Christie returns to Torquay with a weekend of crime writing talks, performances and themed events across the town, including appearances from crime writers Tom Mead, Val McDermid and Abir Mukherjee.

On Saturday night, events will move to the Livermead House Hotel, where guests will be welcomed with a drink before enjoying a two-course dinner accompanied by live period music. The evening programme includes a talk from Kelly Mullen about her novel A Murder in Eight Cocktails, followed by an interactive murder mystery. The evening will also feature themed cocktails and additional talks.

On Sunday, the weekend concludes with a Golden Age costumed parade, inviting participants to don their finest 1920s-inspired attire and walk the Agatha Christie Mile. Lots of fun!

ART
11 April
Things Fall: in conversation

Things Fall is an exhibition of new and recent sculptural works by a collective of eleven artists living and working across the UK, who explore notions of precariousness, fallibility, and ephemerality in a time of social, political and environmental instability.

Join Things Fall artist Kate McLeod and Phoenix Gallery curator Matt Burrows this Saturday as they discuss the themes and ideas underpinning the exhibition. 12pm at Exeter Phoenix.

FAMILY THEATRE
Now until 18 April
Oh Zeus!

Kings of Comedy and Northcott panto collaborators Le Navet Bete return with a fast-paced mythical farce in which three actors play 40 characters on a chaotic journey through Ancient Greece and the Underworld, packed with physical comedy and outrageous humour, 7.30pm at Exeter Northcott Theatre.

MUSIC
11 April
Motown Gospel Choir
A high-energy show celebrating Motown classics from artists like Marvin Gaye, The Supremes and Smokey Robinson. The show’s Musical Director, Rachel Modest, has been leading gospel choirs for over 25 years. In 2022, she gained national recognition as a semi-finalist on ITV’s The Voice, where she was mentored by the legendary Tom Jones. 7.30pm (doors 6.45) at Exeter Corn Exchange.

FOOD & DRINK
11 April
Eat: Bideford
Head north to Bideford as eat:Bideford returns to the quayside on 11 April, 10am–4pm, for a vibrant celebration of north Devon food, drink, and creativity. Meet over 70 local makers, farmers, growers, and street-food vendors, all sharing their best produce, craft, and flavours, with entertainment to keep the day buzzing.10am–4pm.