Old City Sounds returns to our beloved Old City this August Bank Holiday, celebrating the city’s songful soul on Saturday 23 August 2025.
This free celebration will showcase the best of Bristol’s music scene. From toe-tapping jazz and traditional Irish folk to immersive DJs and heart-pounding alt-rock, expect non-stop music and entertainment from midday until late.
This family-friendly celebration will bring the Old City to life, with performances across six vibrant festival areas. Enjoy an eclectic mix of acts in all your favourite local spots, championing Bristol’s rich music scene and supporting grassroots venues.
The Old Duke
This year's event is headlined by the Old Duke Jazz Festival, now in its 58th year. Head along to King Street for free jazz performances all through the bank holiday weekend.
Kids Zone
Free family-friendly returns to St Stephen’s Church from 12pm-5pm. In the garden, you’ll find circus workshops and bubble artists throughout the day, while inside the church there will be face painting and crafts, plus an exciting line-up of performances, drumming workshops, and more.
Corn Street
Dance along to DJs and live music across Corn Street's top venues, including The Cocktail Club, Dirty Martini, and the Gold Bar at Harbour Hotel.
Welsh Back
Enjoy back-to-back silent discos at 6 O’Clock Gin Glassboat, alongside an impressive range of drinks, including G&Ts and gin cocktails.
King Street
Expect a mega line-up of music all day, from Irish folk at Small Bar in the afternoon to a funk and soul DJ in the evening. Bristol Old Vic will also host five top-secret gigs throughout the day.
St Nicholas Street
Head to the outdoor stages and popular venues of this buzzing street for live bands and DJs. St Nicholas Market will also be home to resident DJs spinning hits, making it the perfect backdrop for shopping and grabbing a bite at the nearby stalls.
Old City Sounds is created and supported by Bristol City Centre BID
