Bristol what’s on this weekend April 22-24: Tots raving, Great Gatsby, Tequila festival and more

With the weather heating up and the feeling that summer is upon us more than ever, there are plenty of events happening this weekend in Bristol to make the most of the long days and light nights.

From festivals of dance specifically created for the older generation to music festivals created with tiny tots in mind (and their parents!), there really is something for everyone this weekend (22nd-24th April).

The Great Gatsby Mansion Soiree

A long-awaited fancy event for Bristol, the Great Gatsby Mansion Soiree is coming to Ashton Court Mansion on Saturday evening (23rd April). Set in the mansion grounds, they will be transforming Ashton Court Mansion into a lavish, indulgent and highly exclusive festival-style event, reminiscent of the infamous Great Gatsby parties with a funky little twist!

Teaming up with Exeter’s multi award-winning cocktail bar, Doctor Inks Curiosities, expect an exuberant cocktail lounge, serving decadent cocktails. With a dress code of 1920’s style only, candlelit table and plenty of live music, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported back in time.

Raver Tots

Ever found yourself missing the indoor dance events and big day sessions once you become a parent? Wish you could combine the two a bit better sometimes? Well, Raver Tots might just be answering your prayers this weekend with their event at Trinity on Sunday 24th April. The ultimate indoor family dance party plays the best in house, garage and drum and bass, and is suitable for all ages.

There will also be an effects show throughout the event with dancers, performers, cold pyro, bubbles, festival-sized confetti blasts, multi-coloured lasers and lighting, parachute games, giant balloons and huge LED screens, licensed bar, face painting and chill-out zone! Music will be kept at safe levels and monitored throughout the event.

Bands at Beese’s - starts this Friday

Starting back for the spring/summer season this Friday, don’t miss out on the popular Bands at Beese’s on Friday evening (22nd April). Kick off the weekend with a trip down the river to Beese’s Tea Rooms where you’ll be greeted by plenty of drinks and the sounds of The Raskals, a ​​4-piece covers band covering a great mix of songs including your favourite rock/funk classics to some more recent chartbusters, all with a raskalized edge!

The Bristol Guitar Show

Settling into Ashton Gate for the day on Sunday 24th April, The Bristol Guitar Show runs from 10 am  to 4 pm and is packed full of demos, masterclasses, live shows and workshops. A must-visit for music fans and guitar enthusiasts, there will be free parking available and admission is £8 with under 12’s entering for free.

Tequila Fest

Another Beese’s event, this Saturday (23rd April) sees Tequila Fest land at the popular riverside venue. They will have delicious and traditional Mexican food being served from midday and you can enjoy tequila tastings and cocktails. Sombrero wearing and Mexican dress is encouraged and prizes will be available for those who look the best!

Bristol Artists Book Event

Having moved from their usual venue of the Arnolfini so that they can expand their offerings, BABE will now be taking place on the campus at Bower Ashton over the weekend.

108 artists, collectives, small presses and independent publishers will be attending from all over the UK and Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Denmark, Finland and Poland plus books arriving from Australia, Japan, Brazil, The Netherlands and the USA. UWE students and alumni will also be exhibiting on collective and individual tables over the weekend alongside. Expect artist-led workshops, demos, readings and talks.

Full Bloom Festival

Created especially for the older generation, Full Bloom Festival is a dance event for older people presented by Gerry’s Attic Dance Company. Made up of workshops and dance performances, the festival will include both matinee and evening performances, and renowned ​​choreographer Gary Clarke will be presenting a new piece of work alongside a line-up of guest artists and companies.