Local Events
All throughout the year there are many exciting events, both large and small, which together help make Calne a vibrant and exciting community.
Calne Town Council provide support and in some cases host these events and recognise the important role they play in tourism, economic regeneration and community cohesion.
A calendar of local events and activities is available online at www.calne.org.uk together with more detailed information on the town.
The major events being held in 2012 are as follows:
Wedding Fayre - Sunday 12 February 2012
The Town Hall hosted its first, very successful Wedding Fayre in 2011. Next year's event is being planned as we speak and will include stalls of all descriptions; from wedding favours to catering and classic cars to cakes. If you are planning your special day - put this date in your diary now. More details to follow in the New Year. FREE ADMISSION.
Lions Duck Race - Saturday 19 May 2012
An event close to our heart…
A fun family event where multi coloured ducks are raced down the River Marden.This event is held in May each year and is organised by The Lions Club of Calne raising money for charity and local causes.
The races commence from the bridge adjacent to the Cooperative at 11am and finish at Marden House in the centre of Calne. Races include the ever popular business and schools races and the open race.
Town Crier's Competition - Sunday 17 June 2012
Our first Town Crier's Competion was held in 2010 and due to it's popularity has since become an annual competition which kick starts a series of events and activities leading up to our Summer Festival and Carnival at the end of June.
Town Criers from all over the UK descend on Calne for the day and cry their best cry in an attempt to win the title. Prizes are also awarded for Best Dressed Crier, Best Dressed Escort and Best Dressed Couple. A civic procession around the town, a classic car display and performances by the Chippenham Morris Men complete the days events.
Summer Festival & Carnival - Saturday 30 June 2012
A fortnight of events and activities in the town leading up to Carnival Day. 2012 will see the addition of 'Calne Green Day' which will run alongside the Calne Community Are Partnership Cycle Event - date and more details to follow
A hugely popular community event in the town with our traditional Carnival procession, street stalls and entertainment in the town centre throughout the afternoon into early evening. Lots of fun for all the family and guaranteed sunshine.... we hope!!
Country & Western Music Festival - July 2012
A major attraction to the town for country music enthusiasts from around the world. This weekend-long event traditionally takes place during the first weekend in July, has raised thousands of pounds for local charities. More details to dollow.
Rotary Club of Calne - Annual Motorcycle Meet Saturday 28 July 2012
A very special day…. A major event for motorcycle enthusiasts with something for all the family. One of the loudest and busiest events in our season, organised by Calne Rotary Club and supported by the Lions Club of Calne in 2012. Preparations are well under way for this year's event and it promises to be bigger and better than ever before.
To find out more about the motorcycle event or if you wish to volunteer your time to help with the organisation or on the day, check out their website: www.calnemotorcyclemeet.co.uk
Festival of Food & Drink - Saturday 8 September 2012
Calne's very first Festival of Food & Drink took place in the town on 10 September 2011. The weather was not great but this did not deter the many visitors who came out to support us. A number of cookery demonstrations took place in the Town Hall throughout the day, kicked started by Lorraine Station of Vowley Farm with her ‘How to Make a Perfect Sausage’ demonstration. Peter Vaughan of The Bistro, Devizes followed with his ‘Junior Masterclass Cook-off’ involving John Bentley Students in the creation of a ‘cous cous salad’. Later in the day, Anita Hodgson of Concept Catering created ‘Canapes to Impress your Friends’ and The Kennet Beekeepers gave a fascinating talk on bees & their honey. 
The demonstrations were rounded off with a ‘Ready Steady Decorate’ competition between the Town Mayor and Town Clerk of Calne Town Council. Competition was fierce, but fortunately did not end in a food fight and both cakes looks fantastic!
The Town Hall was buzzing with a food market in the Corn Exchange with plenty of tastings and goodies on offer. A variety of street stalls were located throughout the town which included tasty hot food, local cider and ales, farmers market, children’s fun & games and arts and craft and food stalls of all descriptions. The planning for next years event is already underway - with lots of exciting ideas and suggestions being put forward - Watch this space!
Calne Music & Arts Festival
Over 30 events in various venues in the town will include classical concerts, orchestras, jazz, folk, talks, dance, art, workshops, street entertainment and a silent movie. Brochures can be obtained and bookings for events can be made through the Box Office at the Information Centre, Bank House. The Box office opens in September with the event running in early October. For more detailed information click on the following link; www.calnemusicandartsfestival.co.uk
Fireworks Extravaganza - Friday 3 November 2012
A fantastic event which takes place at Beversbrook Sports & Community Facility each year. With a funfair, food & drink stalls, fully licensed bar and fab fireworks, this is one event in the calendar not to be missed. Big things are planned for Fireworks 2012 - More details to follow.
Winter Festival - Saturday 24 November 2012
This is a fantastic community event which traditionally draws thousands in to our town centre, held on the last Saturday of November. The celebrations include our traditional lantern parade and the ‘switching on' of our town centre Christmas lights. The town comes alive with an array of entertainment and fun for all with arts & crafts, food & drink, street stalls, a funfair, fantastic street entertainment and fireworks. With Christmas music piped onto the streets and Father Christmas making an appearance - its a really magical event and not to be missed.
A timetable of events will be prepared and will feature in the local press and within your winter edition of Calne Connection.