The festival is based around Bristol’s Harbourside. Surfaces are a mix of hard standing, permanent roads (including cobbles), and grass areas. There are steps and kerbs across the site - further information and maps will follow.

How much does it cost to come to the festival?

Nothing! The whole weekend is absolutely free. You can help keep the event free by getting your food and refreshments from our official bars or delicious food traders at the event.

When and where is this year’s festival?

The 2025 Bristol Harbour Festival will take place on Friday 18th, Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th July and is based in the streets and squares around Bristol’s historic harbour.

What are the opening hours of the festival?

  • Friday: 18:00 - 22:00
  • Saturday: 11:00 - 22:00
  • Sunday: 11:00 - 18:00

Accessible toilet facilities

Accessible toilets are located at every toilet block throughout the festival site. Further information on indoor toilet facilities will follow.

Can I bring my dog to the event?

Dogs are welcome but must be kept under control at all times, and please remember to clean up after them.

Where can I buy a programme?

Programmes will be available at the entrance points to The Amphitheatre, Queen Square and College Green. There will also be a stall in Millennium Square where these are given out.

Where can I find information for visitors with accessibility needs?

Information for visitors with accessibility needs can be found on our website here.

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How do I get there?

We always encourage our audiences to walk, cycle, or take public transport to our events. There are lots of cycle routes and cycle parking will be available nearby. As a city-centre festival, this event is easily accessible through public transport and served by Bristol Temple Meads within easy walking distance. 

If you have to drive, we encourage you to plan your journey to the Harbour Festival ahead - please visit https://travelwest.info/drive

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I would like to have a catering stand/exhibitor space at the festival

Traders application will open in the new year - further information will follow. 

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Am i allowed to fly my drone at Bristol harbour festival?

No drones are not permitted to be taken into, or flown, at Bristol Harbour Festival. It is against the CAA rules to fly a drone over or close to a group of crowded people. Bristol Harbour Festival work closely with the Police who may take enforcement action if it is believed the requirements of the law have not been met at Bristol Harbour Festival.

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I would like information on the sponsorship opportunities that are available at Bristol Harbour Festival

There are a number of sponsorship opportunities available designed to suit all budgets and corporate objectives. In the first instance, please contact miles@proudevents.co.uk

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are there any prohibited items i cannot bring into the entertainment venues?

Yes, these include:

  • Alcohol
  • Soft drinks
  • Food
  • Glass containers
  • Potential harmful fluids
  • Weapons - bladed or pointed
  • Umbrellas
  • Flags or banners
  • Marker pens
  • Laser pens
  • Non-prescription drugs, including the previously described 'legal highs'
  • Nitrous oxide
  • Professional photography or recording equipment sound systems
  • Fireworks/Flares/Laser candle lights/Gas canisters/BBQ's/Sparklers
  • Any other type of explosive
  • Windbreakers/tents
  • Dogs (except guide/service dogs)
  • Bicycles
  • Aerosols, gas canisters or air horns
  • Drones
  • Gazebos
  • Fold out tables/chairs

DO SUMMER SAFELY

We are working with Counter Terrorism Policing to help keep everyone safe this summer. We are supporting their summer campaign, encouraging the public to stay alert and report anything that doesn't feel right to security.

You can play your part by trusting your instincts, and if you see something that doesn't feel right, tell security. You won't be wasting their time.

Here are some quick tips to help you have a safe and enjoyable time:

  • Arrive early, allowing more time for security checks and measures
  • Be patient with security checks. It might seem inconvenient, but they are in place to help you
  • Keep it simple and minimise what you carry. Fewer bags to search will speed up entry
  • Stay alert and look out for each other. If you see something that doesn't feel right, tell security. Don't leave it to someone else
  • Don't leave bags unattended. Never agree to look after a stranger's bag, no matter how genuine they seem
  • If there is an incident, listen to staff and any announcements

In an emergency, always call 999.

Have an amazing time, and if you see something that doesn't feel right, report it to security straight away.

Thank you for playing your part.