Planning a trip to Bristol this summer? Make sure it coincides with one of the city’s fabulous festivals for an epic weekend of entertainment in the South West.

Bristol Pride

1 – 14 July

For 2 weeks from the 1^st July, Bristol will come alive with colour for the annual Pride celebrations: a chance to honour and champion equality for the LGBTQ+ community. Last year, a record 36,000 people attended the festival including an array of events from the Pride Dog Show to Circus Nights. This year, Pride Day celebrations (13^th July) will take place on The Downs, hosting a wealth of sparkling musical talent including Melanie C and Sink the Pink. It’s going to be bright!

via Visit Bristol

Bristol Harbour Festival

19 – 21 July

Music, maritime and family are the main themes of this year’s harbourside extravaganza, complete with a calendar of events for all ages taking place during the weekend. Happening just a stone’s throw from The Bristol hotel, visitors can marvel at two of the world’s tallest ships (The Pelican and The Little Brig), a ‘aircraft carrier’ race challenge and the Best Dressed Boat Competition.

via Visit Bristol

Bristol Shakespeare Festival

Throughout July

Every literary lover’s dream will be arriving to Bristol in July, with theatre, discussion and circus performances in honour of the Bard happening throughout the city. From Much Ado About Nothing to Macbeth, expect all of Shakespeare’s finest work to be showcased, alongside abstract performances featuring some of his most famous characters in stories created for the festival.

via Bristol Shakespeare Festival

Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

8-11 August

Europe’s largest annual meeting of hot air balloons marks the perfect time to visit the city. Over 130 hot air balloons from across the globe will be there, filling the skies and providing an epic scene for all in Bristol to enjoy. The festival itself is held over four days at Ashton Court Estate and is completely free of charge. Enjoy fairground rides, a variety of trade stalls and brilliant entertainment, culminating each evening with a firework finale.

The Downs

31 August – 01 September

Combining music, performance art and food, The Downs festival is an annual event offering a myriad of opportunities for ‘positivity, building awareness and musical discovery.’ Both established (Madness, Grace Jones, Ms. Lauryn Hill) and emerging artists will be performing, with talks, panel discussions and culinary offerings from independent and ethical traders happening too.

via Visit Bristol