Your List of Top Events In or Near Bristol Throughout the Year

For people who live in or near Bristol, there are many things to do – we've all most certainly found our niches, so to speak. For instance, some of us may have found an art group nearby, while others may have found activities during the weekend to keep them (and, more importantly, their kids) occupied, such as sports clubs, dance groups, health and fitness gatherings, and so on. But a community like Bristol has so much more to offer that it's worth exploring for a weekend or two to see what it has in store. For example, most people may already know about the Festival of Nature, which occurs across different venues in Bath and Bristol. But you may not know that there is an Oktoberfest in Gloucestershire, a Film Festival in May, and much more. Here is your list of top events in or near Bristol throughout the year.

• The Slapstick Festival

The Slapstick Festival is just as its name implies – it is a celebration of fun and laughter. You and your entire family can start the year (the festival is held in January) in the best frame of mind by laughing at the antics of the great silent film stars. ‘Silent comedy,’ as it is also known, is a bit of a lost art, so it’s best to get a glimpse of this art form while you can.

• The Film Festival

The Film Festival in Bristol is yet another way to celebrate modern and classic cinema, but with a twist! The films are set in unusual and insane – yet somehow logical venues that make sense. To give you an idea, have you ever watched Airplane! in an actual hangar or viewed The Shawshank Redemption in a jail cell? It will be an experience you will never forget.

• The ‘Foodies’ Festival

This festival is highly anticipated, and for good reason! Everything happens in May, and spring is the perfect season to welcome all sorts of food that will satisfy any palate. If you want to make an even more special occasion, why not hold your own event and party and hire fairground rides, stalls, and attractions? It is made entirely possible by funfair hire professionals like We Are Tricycle, and after trying out all the rides and games you want, you and your guests can sample different delicacies from around the UK. By the way, this festival, just like the film festival, is held every May.

• The Harbour Festival and St Paul’s Carnival

In July, get ready for two events: The Harbour Festival in Bristol and St Paul's Carnival. The city's harbour has a lot of history that comes with it, making it even more fitting to celebrate it. The festival is free to the public, and it celebrates everything, from music and dance to food and more.

Meanwhile, Bristol's residents eagerly await St Paul's Carnival, and the masquerade procession is exciting and thrilling. What started in 1968 on the first Saturday of the month continues to this day.

• The International Balloon Fiesta

Another well-known event often pictured on Bristol's postcards, the International Balloon Fiesta is a must-see, with a mass of hot air balloons floating over the Clifton Suspension Bridge. It's a truly stunning sight!