Something to look forward to: The summer 2021 Bristol events guide

By Josh Templeman, Second Year Politics and International Relations

After the year we have all had, news of a potential return to normality by the 21st June has been music to everyone’s ears.

Although great uncertainty remains as to whether this will be the case, it is good to remain optimistic and to finally have something to look forward to. Here’s a run-down on some of the exciting music events taking place in Bristol over the summer.

Lakota Summer of Love Day Party — Saturday 26th June

All things going well, Lakota looks to bring ravers together for the first open-air day party of 2021. At a supposedly much larger and secret location, the day festival will offer 9 hours of partying, with music spanning from drum and bass to disco. Having spent a year indoors, what better way to kickstart your summer than accompanied by one of the city’s most celebrated clubs and a massive selection of DJs?

Tickets and further information.

Motion Summer Garden Party — Saturday 26th June

The first Saturday back was always going to be a big one and with both Lakota and Motion holding massive events, it looks to be a belter. To celebrate restrictions being lifted, Motion will take the party outdoors for an entire day of music, with an impressive line-up promised. Fortunately, for those who can’t wait for so long to get back into Bristol’s biggest and most famous club, Motion plans to reopen, after over a year of closure, on the 16th April, promising an exciting set of seated, open-air shows in the meantime.

Note that at the time of publication this event has officially sold out.

St Paul’s Carnival – Saturday 3rd July

Despite a lack of confirmation that St Paul’s Carnival will take place (fingers crossed it will), organisers are hoping the event will be able to go ahead later this year. The carnival, which celebrates Caribbean music, culture and dance is a massive part of the Bristol calendar and welcomes over 100,000 people to our streets each year.

Bristol Harbour — Friday 16th – Sunday 18th July

Bristol Harbour Festival looks set to make its return this summer. Alongside other cultural activities, the festival aims to showcase the diversity in Bristol’s music scene, with stages all around the city – from Thekla to the Lloyds Amphitheatre. Attendees can expect music of a wide range of genres, from reggae and disco to techno and pop; best of all, it’s free!

Motion Crucast Summer Shutdown — Saturday 31st July

Back in Bristol for the first time in nearly two years, the full Crucast team will provide 10 hours of high-energy drum and bass and bassline at Motion. With huge names like Skepsis, Darkzy and Bou, ravers look to be in for a real treat.

Tickets and further information.

Sunder 2021 — Saturday 7th August

With 11 acts across 2 different stages, Sunder showcases up-and-coming bands from both Bristol itself and the across the rest of the UK. The event, held at The Exchange, will feature a mix of genres including indie, neo-soul, grunge and much more.

Tickets and further information.

Love Saves the Day Festival — Saturday 4th – Sunday 5th September

Organisers have confirmed that one of Bristol’s largest festivals is set to take place this year and is to be held in a new location. Usually held in Eastville Park, this year’s event will unfold in a location that remains unnamed. The line-up also remains unconfirmed but based on past years, attendees can be sure to expect some massive names across various genres.

Note that at the time of publication this event has officially sold out.

Tokyo World Festival — Saturday 18th – Sunday 19th September

Taking place in Eastville Park, Tokyo World is one of Bristol’s most iconic festivals. Although the line-up remains unannounced, organisers have promised something big. Previous years have seen the festival host some of the biggest names in the electronic music and UK hip hop scene.

Note that at the time of publication this event has officially sold out.

Dot To Dot Festival — Saturday 25th September

Dot To Dot, one of Bristol’s most popular day music festivals, has been confirmed to return in September, taking place across various venues within the city. From rapper Sam Wise to alternative rock band Sports Team, the festival is sure to offer something for everyone.

Tickets and more information.