Our region is home to an exciting calendar of events, many of which are internationally renowned and attract visitors from around the world to Bristol, Bath and beyond. Special interest group itineraries and bespoke themed programmes can be created around these must-see events, helping visitors make the most of their trip.
Spring highlights
The annual Bath Festival brings together two renowned events in one inspiring celebration of creativity each May. Bath Literature Festival welcomes bestselling authors, poets and thought leaders for an engaging programme of talks and discussions, while Bath Music Festival fills the city with performances spanning classical, jazz, folk, contemporary and world music.
Bath Comedy Festival, towards the end of May, presents an eclectic programme of stand-up, theatre and comedy performances in venues across the city, showcasing both established names and emerging talent.
Bristol's Love Saves the Day (May) delivers a high-energy weekend of live music, DJs and contemporary entertainment.
May’s Festival of Nature is the UK's largest free celebration of the natural world, with events taking place across Bristol, Bath and the wider West of England. Family-friendly activities, expert talks, wildlife experiences and outdoor adventures make it an excellent addition to spring itineraries focused on sustainability and the region's green spaces.
The prestigious Badminton Horse Trials, at the end of May, is one of the world's premier equestrian events. Combining elite international competition with extensive shopping, food and countryside experiences, it attracts visitors from around the globe.
Spring also brings a programme of special Easter events at Bath Abbey and Bristol Cathedral, where visitors can enjoy seasonal services, family activities, concerts and heritage experiences in two of the region's most iconic historic landmarks.
Upfest, now held every other year and running over an extended period in May, transforms Bristol into a giant open-air gallery as one of Europe's leading street art festivals. Artists from around the world create large-scale murals and live artwork across the city, celebrating Bristol's international reputation as the home of world-class street art and creative culture.
Summer highlights
Bristol International Balloon Fiesta every August is one of Europe's largest free outdoor events, with over a hundred hot air balloons taking to the skies alongside spectacular mass ascents, night glow displays and family entertainment. The event offers pre-bookable coach parking.
Bristol Harbour Festival in mid-July is a free celebration featuring live music, street performers, maritime displays, circus acts and local food and drink. The festival showcases Bristol's historic harbourside at its vibrant best and appeals to visitors of all ages.
Throughout the summer months, Bristol and Bath host an extensive programme of outdoor music events, with concerts and performances taking place in parks, historic venues and open-air settings. From internationally renowned artists to local talent, these events add an extra dimension to city breaks and overnight stays.
Bristol Pride (early July) is one of the UK's largest Pride celebrations, bringing together a colourful programme of parades, live performances, community events and entertainment that reflects the city's inclusive and welcoming spirit.
Bath Carnival, taking place in early July, fills the city with vibrant costumes, live music, dance performances and a spectacular procession celebrating the city's diverse communities in a joyful family-friendly atmosphere.
Autumn highlights
The Jane Austen Festival is a 10-day celebration held in Bath every September, welcoming thousands of visitors each year. In 2025, the festival marked the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen's birth, with more than 2,000 participants taking part in the spectacular Regency Costumed Promenade through the city's historic streets.
Bath also hosts it's Childrens Literary Festival during September. The Festival brings some of the biggest and best loved names in the world of children’s books to a family audience of thousands. Festival goers have fun with storytelling, draw-alongs, and the chance to meet their favourite authors.
Beyond the cities, Westonbirt Arboretum near Tetbury in the southern Cotswolds is not to be missed for a celebration of autumn colours featuring Japanese maples, golden larches, and fiery red acers. Peak colour typically starts from early October each year.
Winter highlights
Bath Christmas Market transforms the city's Georgian streets with more than 170 carefully selected chalets offering handcrafted gifts, local food and artisan produce. Set against the backdrop of Bath Abbey and the city's honey-coloured architecture for 18 days in late November and early December each year, it delivers one of Britain's most atmospheric festive experiences. Specific coach drop-off and parking arrangements and charges apply for this event and must be pre-booked.
Bristol Christmas Market brings seasonal cheer to the heart of the city with traditional wooden stalls, festive entertainment, warming street food and a lively programme of events from early November until Christmas Eve.
Bristol Light Festival brightens the city with spectacular large-scale light installations, interactive artworks and illuminated trails each February. Taking place across the city centre, the free festival attracts visitors of all ages and showcases Bristol's creativity after the Christmas season. It provides an excellent reason for off-peak city breaks and can be easily combined with Bristol's renowned food, cultural and shopping offer.
To the south of Bristol and Bath, the Longleat Festival of Light is one of the UK's largest illuminated events. Each year features a new themed collection of giant lantern displays, immersive light experiences and evening entertainment, all set within the grounds of the historic Longleat estate.
Celebrating Bristol-born Hollywood legend Cary Grant, the Cary Comes Home Festival (November) offers a fascinating programme of classic film screenings, talks, guided walks and special events that explore the actor's life and enduring influence on cinema. The bi-annual festival provides a distinctive cultural experience for film enthusiasts and adds another dimension to Bristol's growing reputation as a destination for screen tourism.
Bristol welcomes comedians, filmmakers and cinema lovers to the internationally acclaimed Slapstick Festival each January. Dedicated to silent and visual comedy, the festival presents screenings with live musical accompaniment, guest appearances, talks and performances celebrating the world's greatest comic talent.
For visitors seeking relaxation and wellbeing, ReBalance Bath showcases the city's centuries-old spa heritage through a programme of wellness experiences, mindfulness activities, fitness sessions, nature walks and rejuvenating events. Taking place during late January to early February, the festival encourages visitors to slow down, reconnect and experience Bath's renowned wellness offer, making it particularly attractive for premium leisure travellers and special interest groups.
Create a Seasonal Itinerary
Together, these events demonstrate why Bristol, Bath and beyond make compelling year-round destinations. Combined with an excellent variety of accommodation options, outstanding food and drink, rich heritage and easy transport links, the region offers travel buyers the flexibility to create inspiring itineraries for groups, FIT travellers and special interest audiences throughout any season.
