Major Events & Festivals in Bristol, Bristol, City of, United Kingdom

All Topics about Bristol All Cities in United Kingdom

1. Bristol Balloon Fiesta

A popular nine-day event featuring hundreds of hot air balloons, live music, and entertainment.

Mass Ascent: Over 500 balloons launch at the same time, creating a breathtaking sight.
Night Glows: Balloons illuminate the night sky in synchronized patterns of light and color.
Accessible Activities: Offers tethered flights, ground entertainment, and a trade show for visitors to enjoy.

A three-day celebration of Bristol's maritime heritage with live music, street food, and boat races.

Grand Parade: Marching bands, performers, and vessels parade through the city centre.
Boat Races: Racing events showcasing various boat classes with fierce competition.
Firework Display: A spectacular fireworks display over the harbour to conclude the festival.

One of Europe's largest street carnivals celebrating Bristol's diverse communities.

Parade of Culture: A procession featuring colorful floats, music, and dancers representing various cultures.
Community Involvement: Over 60 community groups contribute to the organization of the carnival.
Free Entertainment: Offers a range of free music, dance, and arts performances throughout the day.

An annual event that offers behind-the-scenes access to Bristol's unique buildings and architecture.

Architectural Wonders: Gain access to iconic buildings such as the Clifton Suspension Bridge and Bristol Cathedral.
Guided Tours: Expert guides provide insight into each building's history and design.
Limited Availability: Many buildings have limited capacity, so book early to secure your spot.

A three-day celebration of food, drink, and cookery demonstrations featuring top chefs.

Celebrity Chefs: Meet and learn from renowned chefs like Paul Ainsworth and The Hairy Bikers.
Street Food Market: Taste dishes from over 200 food vendors representing various cuisines.
Cookery Demonstrations: Watch live cooking demonstrations and learn new skills in the cookery theatre.

A two-day event showcasing stunning kites of all shapes and sizes from around the world.

Kite Ballets: Teams of flyers coordinate their kites to create mesmerizing performances.
International Performers: Showcases top kite performers from over 20 countries.
Kite Workshops: Learn how to make and fly your own kites in workshops led by experts.

A celebration of the LGBTQ+ community with music, arts, and a vibrant parade.

Parade: A colorful and diverse parade through the city centre, celebrating the LGBTQ+ community.
Community Stalls: Over 100 stalls providing information, support, and entertainment for the community.
Main Stage Performances: Live music, dance, and spoken word performances on a large stage throughout the day.

A week-long celebration of refugee cultures, arts, and human rights.

Arts & Culture Programme: Exhibitions, performances, workshops, and film screenings showcasing refugee talents.
Community Engagement: Opportunities for the public to engage with refugees and learn about their stories.
Human Rights Debates: Panel discussions addressing refugee rights, issues, and solutions.

A vibrant night-time carnival featuring lights, music, and elaborate costumes.

Night Carnival: A unique event as most carnivals in the UK take place during the day.
Community Spirit: Over 3,000 volunteers come together to create the costumes and floats for the parade.
Light Projections: Buildings around the harbour are illuminated with colorful light projections.

A three-day event featuring folk music, dance, and workshops for all ages.

Folk Performances: Enjoy live performances from established and emerging folk artists.
Workshops: Learn new skills in various folk music workshops.
Family Friendly: Offers family-friendly activities and entertainment throughout the festival.

A celebration of pop culture, comics, cosplay, and gaming with guest appearances and exhibitors.

Guest Appearances: Meet stars from movies, TV shows, and comic books.
Cosplay: See elaborate costumes and participate in cosplay competitions.
Exhibitors: Browse products, artwork, and merchandise from various pop culture vendors.

A traditional German-style Christmas market with food, drink, and handmade gifts.

Glühwein & Food Stalls: Enjoy warm mulled wine and delicious festive food from various stalls.
Handmade Gifts: Find unique handmade gifts for your loved ones.
Live Music & Entertainment: Listen to live music and enjoy other forms of entertainment throughout the market.

A competitive sailing race with various classes participating in the regatta.

Competitive Racing: Racing for both amateur and professional sailors.
Spectator Boats: Watch the racing from spectator boats or shore-side vantage points.
Festival Atmosphere: Enjoy live music, food, and drink at the festival hub throughout the regatta.

A city-wide celebration of contemporary visual arts with exhibitions and events across Bristol.

Open Studios: Visit artists' studios to view their work and discuss their creative processes.
Exhibitions: See exhibitions in galleries, museums, and alternative spaces throughout the city.
Artist Talks & Workshops: Attend talks, workshops, and other events led by artists and curators.

A three-day festival featuring the best in jazz and blues music from around the world.

World-Class Performers: See renowned artists such as Courtney Pine, Curtis Stigers, and Candi Staton.
Variety of Venues: Performances take place in venues across the city, including bars, clubs, and outdoor stages.
Workshops & Masterclasses: Learn from professionals with workshops and masterclasses throughout the festival.