Bath Boules returns for 2026 as Bath BID take forward the city's beloved charity event

The much-loved Bath Boules festival has launched with a bang, returning to the city from 2 - 5 July 2026.

Image: Bath Boules, credit Narrated Frames

With 25% of tickets already sold, all is looking good for its highly anticipated return, uniting the city in its signature celebration of pétanque, community spirit, and charitable fundraising. For the first time, the Bath Business Improvement District (Bath BID) will be coordinating the event on behalf of the Bath Boules Trustees, building on the successful foundations established over many years by MediaClash and marking an exciting new chapter for one of Bath’s most iconic summer traditions.

Allison Herbert, CEO of Bath BID, said: “It is a great honour to step up to the challenge of organising such a popular and complex event in the city centre. We hope to include as many people as possible with extra opportunities for volunteering and special fun for all the family on the Sunday.”

“With a bit of sunshine and a lot of French savoir faire, we hope that the Boules 2026 will be fantastique for all involved.”

If you’ve never been to Bath Boules… you’re missing out! This four‑day summer festival is one of Bath’s most loved events. It is a lively celebration where businesses, charities, community groups and friends come together for friendly competition and serious fun.

A firm fixture in the city’s summer calendar, Bath Boules transforms Queen Square into a vibrant hub of energy, connection and teamwork. Matches play out across the Square as players cheer each other on, new friendships are formed, and the spirit of community fills every corner.

And it’s not just about the games. Over the years, Bath Boules has raised more than £775,000 for local charities.

Whether you’re competing, networking or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Bath Boules is a celebration of everything that makes Bath brilliant: community spirit, collaboration and a whole lot of summer joy.

The Bath BID is excited to build on the event’s strong legacy, working closely with partners across the city to grow the festival while keeping its much-loved atmosphere at the heart of the experience. For 2026, visitors can look forward to a lively street-food scene and the introduction of Sunday Funday.

Steph Dodd, Managing Director of MediaClash, said: “Although it’s the end of an era of MediaClash organising the Bath Boules event, I’m delighted that the Bath BID are taking the reins as a central and civically-minded organisation in the city”

“It’s a great match, and MediaClash will continue to support in its new capacity as Official Media Partner via Bath Life.”

Planning is already underway for Bath Boules 2026 and the Bath BID promises a memorable programme of activity with even more ways for businesses, sponsors, and teams across the city to take part.