There’s no doubt that Bristol’s floating harbour is one of the city’s most vibrant and buzzing areas. Opened in 1809 as a solution to the city’s exceptional high tidal range (which is the second highest tidal range in the world, in fact) it has since transformed into a home for hipster hubs, creative communities and top-notch brunch spots.
On top of that, every year the floating harbour plays host to a joyous celebration of Bristol’s diverse communities, musical talent, award-winning food and cultural heritage. Bristol Harbour Festival 2023 is happening this month and, as well as just being a great summer’s day out, is completely free to attend. What more could you want? Here’s everything you need to know.
When is Bristol Harbour festival?
This year, the fest will take place from Friday, July 14 to Sunday, July 16.
Who’s on the programme for 2023?
This year’s festival is all about home-grown talent. The live soundtrack at Lloyd's Amphitheatre is being curated by Ujima Radio, which is the city’s African and Caribbean community platform, alongside community radio station BCFM Radio and Access Creative College.
The line-up includes locally beloved band Doreen Doreen, who create unexpected and flamboyant mash-ups of iconic artists, and Malaysian singer Marns, whose music infuses acoustic soul, R&B, EDM and more.
Sunday will see Bristol Reggae Orchestra take to the stage with Windrush Choir, fresh from their Pyramid Stage set at Glasto. There’s also Jamaican band Onika Venus, Yiddish group Chai for All, DJ John Stapleton and award-winning rhythm and blues band Terraplanes.
Beyond music, Jack Moule, the British Freestyle Jetski champion, will be performing a masterclass on water-based twists, tricks and jumps. There will be comedy shows, acrobatic performances and a heap of other family friendly entertainment activities throughout the weekend.
You can dig deeper into what to expect on the official Bristol Harbour Festival website here.
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