3 min readStep onto one of the world’s most historic stages, explore hidden stories, and join a citywide treasure hunt as Bristol Old Vic marks its 260th birthday.
This May, Bristol Old Vic throws open its doors - and pulls back the curtain - to invite Bristol to celebrate an extraordinary milestone: 260 years of theatre, creativity and community.
As the oldest continuously working theatre in the English-speaking world, Bristol Old Vic has welcomed generations of audiences and artists since 1766. To mark its landmark birthday, the theatre is hosting a week of events that celebrate its rich heritage while inviting the people of Bristol to make brand new memories of their own.
From dancing on the famous stage to family adventures through the building and a citywide treasure hunt for limited-edition anniversary keepsakes, Bristol Old Vic’s 260th birthday celebrations are an invitation for everyone to be part of its story.
Nancy Medina, Bristol Old Vic’s Artistic Director, said: “We really wanted this birthday celebration to be filled with fun, joy and connection - a true party atmosphere for the people of Bristol, who are at the heart of our story. Our 260th year begins the next chapter of that story. Our mission continues to be rooted in building those deep and meaningful relationships with artists and the people of Bristol, ensuring Bristol Old Vic is a place for everyone and a home for powerful, inspiring live performance for generations to come.”
Come and dance. Come and explore. Come and celebrate 260 years of Bristol Old Vic. For more information and tickets, visit bristololdvic.org.uk/bov-260.
Take Centre Stage: 260 Silent Disco
Saturday 30 May 2026 | 8pm – Midnight | £5 (first drink free) | Theatre stage
For one unforgettable night, Bristol Old Vic is transforming its iconic stage into a dancefloor.
Tickets are £5 with your first drink free and capacity is strictly limited.
Party at Bristol Old Vic Theatre
Wednesday 27 May 2026 | Free | Bristol Old Vic (building-wide)
Birthday celebrations begin with a free, fun-filled Family Day, inviting children, families and visitors of all ages to join Bristol Old Vic for a very special 260th birthday party.
With bunting hung, presents wrapped and activities planned, Bristol Old Vic’s historic building will be transformed into an immersive celebration of theatre, creativity and play - taking families on a joyful journey through time as they explore and celebrate the rich history of the iconic venue. Designed primarily for ages 3–12, but open to everyone.
The Great Bristol Old Vic Treasure Hunt
Throughout May 2026 | City-wide
Across the city, Bristol Old Vic is also launching a birthday treasure hunt with a very special prize.
260 commemorative wooden coins marking the theatre’s anniversary will be hidden at local landmarks, community hubs, cultural venues and places with deep Bristol Old Vic connections.
Your Story, Our Stage
Throughout May 2026, Bristol Old Vic is also inviting Bristolians to connect their own family stories to the theatre’s remarkable past.
Share a significant date in your family history - perhaps when families moved to Bristol, a birthday, wedding anniversary, or another meaningful moment - and Bristol Old Vic’s Heritage Team will reveal what was being performed on the theatre’s stage on that very date, anywhere between 30 May 1766 and today.
It’s a chance to discover how your story and Bristol Old Vic’s story may be more closely connected than you think.
