What is Bristol Harbour Festival?

Bristol Harbour Festival is an annual celebration of the city’s maritime heritage, culture and creativity. The festival transforms Bristol Harbourside into a lively waterfront destination, with entertainment taking place across multiple locations.

Visitors can expect a mix of:

• Live music stages featuring local and national performers
• Street theatre and entertainers
• Watersports and harbour displays
• Family activities and cultural events

The 2026 festival theme focuses on a “return to the water”, celebrating Bristol’s connection with the harbour through new performances, waterfront experiences and activities designed for all ages.

Things to do at Bristol Harbour Festival

There’s plenty to see and do throughout the festival weekend, whether you’re visiting with friends, family or as a couple.

Watch live music and waterfront performances
Music is at the heart of Bristol Harbour Festival, with stages and performances creating a festival atmosphere throughout the city. From emerging local artists to larger live acts, there’s something happening throughout the weekend.

Explore Bristol Harbourside
The harbour itself is one of Bristol’s most popular areas, with museums, attractions, restaurants and bars all within walking distance. The festival is a great opportunity to spend the day exploring the waterfront before settling down for food and drinks.

Enjoy food and drinks by the water
A full day at Harbour Fest Bristol calls for a good place to relax and refuel. With visitors spending hours exploring the festival, Bristol Harbourside restaurants and bars are a popular choice for lunch, dinner, cocktails and catching up with friends. But, tables fill fast so it's definitely worthwhile to book in advance!

Where to eat during Bristol Harbour Fest

If you’re looking for somewhere close to the festival action, Las Iguanas Bristol Harbourside is ideally located on right in the centre of the action, making us the perfect place to stop by during your Harbour Fest visit.

We’ve recently refurbished our outdoor terrace and bar, just in time to enjoy the summer sunshine and the buzz of the waterfront. Whether you’re joining us before heading into the festival, taking a break from the crowds or ending your day with food and drinks, our terrace is the perfect spot to soak up the Bristol Harbourside atmosphere.

Our menu brings together bold Latin American-inspired flavours, with dishes made for sharing, alongside colourful cocktails and refreshing drinks to keep the celebrations going.