Bristol Harbour Festival
A massive three-day celebration of Bristol's maritime heritage and creative energy centered around the Floating Harbour.
Stretching from Thekla to Underfall Yard the waterfront becomes a stage for live music circus acts and floating spectacles.Ā The 2026 edition marks a bold return to the water with high-energy stunts and maritime magic across multiple zones.Ā It is one of the UK's largest free festivals attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors. From family entertainment to tall ships there is something for everyone.
Dates: 17 - 19 July 2026
The festivalās refreshed 2026 layout turns Bristolās iconic waterfront into a living stage - packed with back-to-back entertainment, dockside moments and maritime magic. With more happening along the harbourās edge, audiences can explore new festival areas, follow the water through the city, and feel more connected to Bristolās vibrant harbourside atmosphere all weekend long.
Across the weekend, expect an eclectic mix of Bristolās emerging talent, alongside established and international performers, with live music, circus, family fun and interactive experiences popping up throughout the festival. And with the harbour taking centre stage, thereāll be even more to discover on the water too - from floating performances to high-energy harbour spectacles that bring Bristolās waterfront to life.
- Underfall Yard
- Baltic Wharf
- Hotwells Walkway (near Atyeo, Spike Island)
- Spike Island partners
- SS Great Britain and Brunel SquareĀ
- Harbour Inlet
- Cascade StepsĀ
- MV Balmoral
- TheklaĀ
- The Louisiana
- M-Shed
