Bristol things to do 16-17 July: Harbour Festival, cider vs cheese and Shakespeare on a ship

There’s plenty to do around the city this weekend
Sophie Wills
By Sophie Wills
Published 15th Jul 2022, 10:32 BST
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We’re now in the full throes of summer with temperatures set to surpass 30ºC this weekend, so let’s take a look at what’s happening in Bristol.

Whether you fancy dancing the night away, Shakespeare on a ship or a cheeky cider over a cheeseboard, there’s something kicking offfor everyone from July 16-17.

If you’re in need of a bit of inspiration, look no further.

Bristol Harbour Festival

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Bristol Harbour Festival returns to the city from July 15-17 to celebrate its 50th anniversary.

The amphitheatre’s Bristol Music Stage will feature Dazee, Black Roots and Doreen Doreen among a stellar celebration of the city’s music scene. The Circus Playground returns to Queen Square with Cirque Bijou lining up street theatre performances, while Trinity Community Arts presents Bristol Dances in Millennium Square.

Nine performance areas will feature familiar favourites and new attractions, filling one and a half miles of the city with music, food markets, circus acts, live music and performers.

This year will see the Bristol Music Stage showcase long-loved Bristol acts – many of whom are celebrating key anniversaries this year, including 40 years for the ultimate party band Doreen Doreen.This year will see the Bristol Music Stage showcase long-loved Bristol acts – many of whom are celebrating key anniversaries this year, including 40 years for the ultimate party band Doreen Doreen.
This year will see the Bristol Music Stage showcase long-loved Bristol acts – many of whom are celebrating key anniversaries this year, including 40 years for the ultimate party band Doreen Doreen.

Cider vs Cheese

Who wouldn’t be a tempted by a day in the sun celebrating the region’s two favourite things: cider and cheese? Enjoy the best of both on Saturday (July 16) at The Cider Box on Silverthorne Lane.

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Raise a glass, and a fork, to fine indie producers in this cider and cheese festival, full of talks, tastings, music and mischief. Tickets include a welcome cider, some artisan cheese and all the day’s activities.

Enjoy a day of artisan cider, cheese and activities at Bristol’s Cider Box this Saturday. Pic @theciderboxEnjoy a day of artisan cider, cheese and activities at Bristol’s Cider Box this Saturday. Pic @theciderbox
Enjoy a day of artisan cider, cheese and activities at Bristol’s Cider Box this Saturday. Pic @theciderbox

The Hamlet Voyage

The Matthew is partnering up with Re:Verse Theatre from July 16-17 for the world premiere of their production of The Hamlet Voyage, a new play about the first record of Shakespeare being performed outside of Europe.

It was performed in 1607 by sailors off the coast of Sierra Leone for local West African dignitaries, on the first English voyage to reach India.

Join Re:Verse for a theatrical critique of the very beginnings of British colonial ambitions, drawing on classical performance across three continents.The play free to watch with seats both on the ship and shore.

‘Hamlet was performed in 1607 in Sierra Leone. We want to know why.’ Pic: Re:Verse Theatre.‘Hamlet was performed in 1607 in Sierra Leone. We want to know why.’ Pic: Re:Verse Theatre.
‘Hamlet was performed in 1607 in Sierra Leone. We want to know why.’ Pic: Re:Verse Theatre.

Gin Garden Sessions

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During the pandemic, St George’s Bristol moved their summertime gigs outside into their beautiful gardens – and they liked it so much that they’re back for more.

The Gin Garden returns in partnership with 6 O’Clock Gin, welcoming brilliant local artists on Sunday (July 17).

You don’t need a ticket – just go along, order a summer drink, and soak up the music.

Related topics:Bristol

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