ONE of the things people love most about Weston is that there is always something going on, and this is especially true during the summer months, when festivals, parades and commemorations fill the resort with colour, light, sounds, smells and frivolity.

Following two years of not being able to get out and about with friends and family due to the pandemic, creating memories at a free festival, or an evening of musical entertainment, sound heavenly. And with these events, put on by the local authority, charities, businesses and other organisations in and around Weston, there’s really no excuse not to make up for lost time!

Weston Mercury: Local eventsLocal events (Image: NQ)

APRIL

 

Pageant of Transport - April 8 and 9

Situated on Weston's Beach Lawns, the 43rd show is expected to wow residents. Classic cars, American muscle, Japanese imports, modified cars, tractors, motorbikes, buses and former service vehicles will fill the seafront. 

There will also be children’s entertainment, trade stands, food stalls, and even a miniature railway.

MAY

 

North Somerset Show - May 1

A popular agricultural and equestrian show, with livestock competitions, ploughing match, tractor-pulling, show-jumping, children’s rides and trade stalls, held at Bathing Pond Fields, in Wraxall.

Circus Zyair - May 10 to 14

The circus arrives at Weston’s Beach Lawns offering a colourful and action-packed show with high-octane acts from all over the world.

Weston Rotary Dog Day - May 13

From rescue dogs to puppies and golden oldies, all are welcome to enter the fun classes on The Beach Lawns, including waggiest tail and prettiest bitch. The event raises funds for Holly Hedge Animal Sanctuary and other charities.

JUNE

 

Top of the Gorge Festival - June 10 and 11

Held in Cheddar Gorge, this event celebrates everything outdoors, with live music, local food and a camping option. The idea is to encourage people to be adventurous by going along and trying something new.

Lookalike Soundalike Festival - June 11

This festival does exactly what is says on the tin - tribute acts of all genres will be performing popular songs from popular artists. This event will be taking place at The Tropicana.

The National Refuse Championships - June 16 and 17

Bin crews from across the UK race each other along the town’s seafront. The free family event has fair rides, refreshments and a raffle. It gives the public chance to show appreciation for the important work they do and raises money for The Alzheimer’s Society.

JULY

 

Brews, Blues, and Barbeques - July 1

A fifth year of the beer and music festival held at The Pitchfork Ales Brewery, in West Hewish.

Children are welcome and provided with a bouncy castle, while adults are treated to a free pint with their ticket, five live acts, and brewery tours.

Weston Pride - July 1 and 2

The annual event features a parade through the town on the Saturday morning, followed by live music, comedy, arts, theatre and culture on one of the Beach Lawns to celebrate equality and diversity.

Real Ale and Cider Festival - July 29 to 30

The sixteenth year of revelry organised by Weston Lions Club with the very best of local food, drink and live music on the Beach Lawns to raise funds for local charities.

AUGUST

 

Weston Diary Festival - 3 to 6 August

A celebration of livestock, agriculture and local producers from all over the South West. Originally a popular event in the 1960s, it re-launched a few years ago and now promotes farming and healthy living to a new generation. This year promises animal shows, a petting zoo, craft fair, food market and live music.

Yalleyfest - August 3 to 6

With the likes of The Kooks, Scouting for Girls and Bananarama playing live, the popular weekend food and music event promotes environmental issues and is held on an organic farm overlooking the stunning Chew Valley Lake.

SEPTEMBER

 

EAT: Weston Food Festival - September 23

Scores of food and drink producers from within 25 miles of Weston will descend on The Town Square selling farmers’ market favourites such as cheese, cakes and pastries, meat and craft beer. There will also be tractors, livestock and cooking demonstrations.