There’s no need for wellies or glamping at these top three festivals in Bath. Join the Welcome Ambassadors from Bath BID as they introduce you to their favourite festivals happening this May.
BATH SPRING FAYRE
May 10-12
lsdpromotions.com/bath
New this year, the Bath Spring Fayre will be blossoming on Milsom Street, New Bond Street, Wood Street, Quiet Street and Green Street this May. Featuring a full schedule of spring-themed workshops, walkabout entertainment and performances by local singers, performers, and community groups this free event welcomes all members of the family. There will even be street food to try, unique artisan stalls and, for the green-fingered, plant specific stalls. The collaboration between Bath & North East Somerset Council and Bath BID ensures that the schedule of entertainment will be full, delighting visitors with a lively atmosphere alongside the energy of our local communities.
THE BATH FESTIVAL
May 17-26
bathfestivals.org.uk/the-bath-festival
The city’s oldest and biggest arts festival brings its annual celebration of books and music to this beautiful city this month, with a sparkling mix of inspirational speakers, consummate story tellers and music to lift the spirits and soothe the soul. The festival will open with Party in the City on the 17th with an evening of free live music in dozens of venues. Then expect a star studded line-up including singer, presenter and West End legend Michael Ball who brings us his magical memoir, Different Aspects. Michael will also be taking us all 'backstage' as he shares anecdotes from his glittering career. Laughter, tears and an abundance of heart are guaranteed. Other names to look out for include broadcaster Jonathan Dimbleby who will be in Bath on publication day of his book Endgame 1944,and comedian Ruby Wax who will be offering advice on staying sane in a chaotic world. Journalist Rebecca Thomson, who broke the Post Office accounting scandal, will join a discussion panel, including Nick Wallis, author of the Great Post Office Scandal, and Post Office manager Nicholas Arch, to talk about this huge miscarriage of justice, and to update Bath Festival audiences on the latest developments.
BATH FRINGE FESTIVAL
May 25– June 9
bathfringe.co.uk
The historic Bath Fringe Festival that can trace itself back to the 70s in Bath, is another well-established and popular festival happening in the city. Celebrating everything art related including Affordable Art, Spoken Word, Digital Arts & Media, Standup Comedy, Cabaret, Physical Theatre, Circus Arts, Folk & World Music, Latin Dance, Jazz and even Pop, Rock, and Black Music performances, there really is a vast collection of talented acts taking part in the Fringe Festival. Expect to have your curiosity stimulated as you explore spaces which challenge your technological, social and emotional relationships. Connect your personal stories to broader cultural and social narratives which can create a living archive as you celebrate and preserve memories across various mediums. Spread across 16 days and various events in the city, it is also one of the longest festivals happening this year.
