The International Agatha Christie Festival is bringing its second annual spring event to Torquay, Devon, on April 11, 2026, and April 12, 2026, to celebrate the famous author’s local roots. This weekend gathering offers residents and visitors a chance to attend book talks, join a costume parade, and explore the town’s history through a new mobile app. This event provides cultural activities for families and is expected to help local shops and hotels during the spring season.
On Saturday, April 11, 2026, a series of literary talks will take place at the Torquay Museum in Pengelly Hall. Award-winning crime writers such as Val McDermid, Abir Mukherjee, and Tom Mead will discuss their mystery books and the heritage of detective stories.
The celebrations continue on Sunday, April 12, 2026, with a free costume parade where participants are encouraged to wear 1920s outfits like cloche hats, pearls, and moustaches. This morning stroll takes people along the Agatha Christie Mile, which is a walking route that links important landmarks from the writer’s life in the town.
The festival will also feature the launch of the Agatha Christie Mile app, created by Matt Newbury, which provides an interactive guide to local sites on mobile phones. Additionally, guided walking tours will depart from the English Riviera Visitor Information Centre on Vaughan Parade to show visitors historic spots like Princess Gardens.
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