Bristol is a vibrant and energetic city located in the southeast of England, a place that is always buzzing with excitement throughout the year. From art shows to music festivals, Bristol has a thriving entertainment scene that attracts countless visitors each year. Whether you’ve been before or are a first-time visitor, a stay in or around Bristol often promises something out of the ordinary. In this article, we’ll look at our favourite events you can find in and around Bristol for 2024.
Our Favourite Events in and Around Bristol
Here, we’ve put together our favourite events in and around Bristol. If any have already passed, we’ll include a rough date for 2025 so you can mark it in your calendars.
Bristol Walk Fest (Next Event: May 1st–31st, 2025)
If you love being on the move at all times, we’re sure you’ll love the Bristol Walk Fest. It’s the perfect opportunity to lace up your walking boots and explore Bristol’s incredible scenery via a range of guided walks throughout May. From historic explorations to scenic hikes along the river and surrounding countryside, we’re sure you’ll have a great time.
Upfest (Next Event: Begins Mid-May 2025, TBA)
At Upfest, you’ll be part of Europe’s largest street art festival, where you’ll immerse yourself in a celebration of urban art with artists passionate about their craft. You’ll be able to mingle with people from across the world and witness how Bristol’s streets are transformed into open-air galleries that redefine how the city looks and feels.
To ensure you don’t miss out on any of the fun in 2025, you can charter a jet and arrive at Bristol’s surprisingly popular international airport. This way of travelling might cost more than commercial air travel, but when done with others, it can be surprisingly affordable. You’ll also have more control over your schedule.
Love Saves the Day (Next Event: Begins Late May 2025, TBA)
If you love music festivals and all-around good vibes, you’ll have a great time at Love Saves the Day, Bristol’s iconic alternative music festival. With famous headlines and multiple stages, there’s a good mix of musical styles and genres that will keep you dancing all weekend.
Bristol Pride (June 29th-July 14th)
Whether you’re LGBT+ or an ally, Bristol Pride is the perfect place to celebrate inclusivity with friends and family. Bristol Pride is a two-week event that ends with the Pride Day Parade — a real show-stopper event that always gets people talking. For the 2024 event, you’ll have the chance to watch iconic pop stars like The Human League and Ladytron light up the stage.
Bristol Harbour Festival (July 19th–21st)
Arguably one of the most well-known events on our list, Bristol’s Harbour Festival is packed full of maritime fun and incredible vibes from all involved. You’ll be able to listen to great live music, hit the water with friends and family, and try food from some of the region’s best food vendors, all from the comfort of the scenic waterfront.
Valley Fest (August 1st–4th)
Hidden in the hills of the stunning Cotswolds countryside, Valley Fest is a great place to escape to if you typically spend most of your time in the city. You’ll be able to enjoy great food, dance to some fantastic music, and unwind with like-minded festival-goers in this scenic location.
Bristol Balloon Fiesta (August 9th–11th)
At the Bristol Balloon Fiesta, you can take to the skies (figuratively) and get a first-hand account of one of the UK’s most iconic and memorable outdoor events. Hundreds of hot air balloons take to the skies throughout the weekend, each of which is adorned in various colours that light up the summer sky like nothing else.
FORWARDS Festival (August 31st–September 1st)
FORWARDS is the perfect place to immerse yourself in a world of innovation and creativity. Located in Bristol, this cutting-edge festival is home to the best of Bristol’s design, technology, and music scene, organised by those who have a passion for all things creative. While you’re there, you’ll be able to participate in interactive workshops, attend talks by world-renowned experts, and meet with other people who share your passion for creativity.
Bristol Christmas Market (Begins Late November)
As we edge towards the end of 2024, we finally arrive at the Christmas Markets, which will transport you to a wonderland of all things festive. The Bristol Christmas Markets have a strong reputation for putting on a show, attracting people from the wider region and beyond from the middle of November up until the run-up to Christmas.
Planning Your Bristol Adventure
Bristol is home to a wide range of events throughout the year, so no matter when you visit, you’ll be sure to find something that’s up your street. For an unforgettable experience packed full of luxury and comfort, why not visit via private jet and land at Bristol Airport?
Whether you’re attracted to the artistic energy and historical landmarks or are simply in love with the city’s infectious charm, Bristol is a great place to visit, no matter the occasion.
