August in Cambridge is a season of enchantment—heritage gardens host Shakespearean plays, university grounds stage live music, and riverside parks come alive with open-air festivals. Whether you’re a visitor, a local looking for a weekend outing, or managing short-let property rentals, Cambridge in August delivers culture, community, and creative experiences at every turn.

From classic theatre in college gardens to international folk festivals and pop-up food markets on Jesus Green, here’s your guide to the best August events across the city—including insights into how Pass the Keys can support both visitors and hosts during this vibrant summer surge.

Outdoor Theatre & Literary Events

Cambridge Shakespeare Festival (14 July – 30 August)

Staged in the private gardens of Cambridge University colleges—including King’s, Trinity, and Girton—this annual festival presents Shakespeare in full Elizabethan costume, accompanied by live period music. Performances emphasise language and storytelling, with minimal staging to create an intimate, immersive experience in historical settings.

Leper Chapel Summer Series – Hamlet, Ghost Stories & Ovid’s Metamorphoses

From August 8 through 22, the historic Leper Chapel hosts a programme of live storytelling and theatre. Expect Hamlet, seasonal ghost stories, and classical transformation themes in atmospheric performances delivered by in situ theatre company.

Music & Festival Highlights

Cambridge Folk Festival (if reinstated)

While rumoured to return in 2026, Cambridge Folk Festival has defined summer folk music for decades. Past line‑ups included artists like Mumford & Sons, Nick Mulvey and Martin Simpson in a family-friendly setting at Cherry Hinton Hall.

Music in the Parks & Folk in the City (2–3 August)

Free live music events in Cherry Hinton Hall include Jazz, folk, and acoustic acts. Music in the Parks occurs on 3 August, while an outdoor folk concert follows on 2 August—both perfect for afternoon picnics and local atmosphere.

Magic of Thailand Festival (2–3 August, Parker’s Piece)

This vibrant two-day event celebrates Thai culture in Cambridge town centre with food, dance, Thai boxing demos (Muay Thai), and arts. Admission is approximately £5 and proceeds support charity initiatives.

Cambridge Sport Lakes Triathlon Festival (3 August)

For fitness fans, Milton Country Park hosts this triathlon with options for Sprint and Standard distances—swimming, cycling and running through scenic parklands. A true test of endurance with a community spirit.

Community & Cultural Events

Pink Festival – Cherry Hinton Hall

A free LGBTQ+ celebration held on a Saturday in August, featuring live music, stalls, performances, and inclusive community vibes in eastern Cambridge.

Out of the Ordinary Festival (23–24 August)

Hosted in central Cambridge, this two-day free arts festival delivers street performances, creative workshops, family activities, and local stalls. A highlight of the council’s summer programme.

Food, Drink & Riverside Life

Food & Cycling Festival – Jesus Green (25 August)

A vibrant, free festival promoting sustainable transport and local food. Expect street-food vendors like Scottie’s Scotch Eggs, pizza stalls, gelato, and more. Held alongside casual pop‑up races and bike-themed entertainment.

Markets & Civic Events

Cambridge Criterium (24 August, Jesus Green)

A dynamic urban cycle race drawing both amateur and elite riders. Expect family zones, spectator cheer, and energy as the race loops around this leafy green space.

Cambridge Country Show (9–10 August, Stow cum Quy)

Local crafts, livestock displays, food stalls, tractor parades and family-friendly shows make this a traditional countryside outing just outside the city.

Workshops, Activities & Tours

• Whipple Museum Highlights Tour (16 August): A free guided exploration of fascinating scientific artefacts, including early instruments and rare models.
• Story‑telling & Drumming Workshops by Makani at Fitzroy St (e.g. Bollywood dance, dabkeh and drumming) on 2 August.

Summary: Why August in Cambridge Is Special

From garden theatre and multicultural festivals to pop-up food events and community arts, Cambridge transforms into a vibrant cultural playground each August. Whether sunshine or summer showers, there’s always something open-air and engaging to enjoy, often at low or no cost.

Hosting in Cambridge This August? Partner with Pass the Keys

If you're renting out a property during the busy summer season in Cambridge—whether you’re hosting students, festival visitors, or short-break tourists—Pass the Keys can manage bookings, guest correspondence, cleaning, and check-ins for you. By combining local expertise with seamless service, Pass the Keys helps hosts maximise revenue and deliver a superior guest experience.