Be Newquay Festival Continues to Light Up Newquay with Art, Wellness, and Culture

Photo Credit: Mike Searle

The month-long Be Newquay Festival, bringing creativity, culture, and wellness to the heart of Newquay, continued to impress visitors and locals over the weekend from 8th to 10th November. From artist residencies to immersive performances, the second weekend offered a dynamic mix of events across the town, with much more to come.

Phil Strugnell’s Residency Kicks Off at SeaSpace

Friday night saw the launch of Phil Strugnell’s artist residency at SeaSpace, following his striking mural on the building’s exterior. As SeaSpace’s first artist in residence, Phil introduced his “Versions” exhibition, a vibrant showcase of his works now displayed in SeaSpace’s bar and restaurant, where it will remain through November. Alongside his exhibition, Phil hosted workshops where participants created abstract wood sculptures and card collages, pieces now featured in the “Versions Vol 2” exhibit at Project 83 until the festival’s end.

Art and Wellness Activities Draw Crowds

Art enthusiasts enjoyed additional hands-on workshops, including a Bellyboard Painting Workshop with the team from Dick Pearce and Friends and pottery painting sessions at Tor Pottery, where participants personalised ceramic pieces with creative flair. For wellness seekers, a Tension & Trauma Releasing Exercise and Sound Bath session by Your Wellness Ocean offered relaxation, while Nordic Spa sessions at Saunassa provided the ultimate in rejuvenation.

Community Engagement and Unique Performances

Community-focused events brought extra energy, with “The Big Movement Pop-Up” by 4Motion CIC Cornwall bringing lively performances to public spaces and Upstart Theatre presenting Red Planet: Revolution, an immersive environmental performance that captivated audiences with live-action storytelling.

Upcoming: Family-Friendly Events and Cultural Highlights

Looking ahead to the third weekend, the festival’s family-friendly events will celebrate Newquay’s culture and heritage. Highlights include To The Moon & Back, a performance combining dance, theatre, sound installations, and a walking tour experience. With limited tickets left, those interested are encouraged to book now.

Other creative events include a Wire & Write Workshop, a Sip and Sketch session with artist Andy Pearce at The Headland Hotel, and Turk(ish), a unique show blending live music, storytelling, and tightwire. Families can also enjoy a willow lantern-making workshop at Trenance on 16th November, setting the stage for the town’s first Lantern Parade on 22nd November.

Literary Treats for Book Lovers

Literature lovers can join an author talk with Cathy Retzenbrink at Clemo Books or participate in an outdoor writing workshop with local author Wyl Menmuir, adding a literary element to the weekend’s offerings.

Due to limited space, tickets are required for most events, including some free sessions. For the full schedule and booking details, check out the What’s On page or follow @benewquay_festival on Instagram for updates.

Supporting Newquay’s Visitor Economy

Commissioned by Cornwall Council’s Experience Newquay project and supported by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the Be Newquay Festival aims to strengthen Newquay’s year-round visitor economy. Funded by a £365,426 investment through the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly’s Good Growth Programme, the initiative aims to boost local enterprise by revitalising town centres and promoting Newquay as a vibrant, sustainable destination throughout the year.

Photo Credit: Mike Searle