07 August 2023
The team behind GO! Southampton is refusing to let this summer become a washout – as it reveals its jam-packed events calendar.
As the school holidays get well underway, the Business Improvement District’s (BID) summer schedule – promoted via Visit Southampton – is heating up, with plenty of events and experiences on offer across the city for all ages.
From al-fresco dining to outdoor festivals, there is plenty to see and do, and all events are listed on the Visit Southampton website.
August’s highlights include a family fun day at John Hansard Gallery (8 August), the thrilling Circus Zyair in Mayflower Park (9 – 13 August), and the welcome return of Westquay’s roller-rink – “Roller Land” – on the Esplanade (14 August – 3 September).
Southampton Pride, which names GO! Southampton as one of its Gold sponsors, will also be held in the city on 26 August. Popstars Liberty X headline the main stage alongside Drag troupe Drag Syndrome and the winner of the first UK Ru Paul’s Drag Race – The Vivienne.
The return of The Hundred at The Ageas Bowl (4 – 19 August) has already begun to delight the region’s passionate cricket supporters, while sailing enthusiasts will be pleased to see that the 2023 Ocean Globe Race starts its journey in Southampton. The free Ocean Globe Race Village opens from 26 August in Ocean Village.
During September, and after the kids return to school, there will still be events to enjoy. Britain’s largest boating festival, the Southampton International Boat Show, will return on 15 September at Mayflower Park, and promises some incredible new features alongside the show’s most popular attractions. The fantastic ‘Water sports Zone’ will also be back and will host a whole selection of exciting kit with guidance from the best experts in the business.
Foodies will enjoy the return of Beats and Eats in Hoglands Park (16 September – 17 September). The family-friendly event will invite some of Southampton’s very best bands, DJs, solo artists, and performers to its stage, while tempting visitors with street kitchens from around the world.
Fitness fans are invited to light their glow-sticks as the Dash in the Dark 5km fun run heads to Southampton Common (23 September). And rounding up the summer schedule, is Music in the City (23 – 24 September), Southampton’s free celebration of music, which is now in its 14th year.
Stephen Manion, Chief Executive of GO! Southampton said: “Although we haven’t had the best weather this year, we are determined to make this summer one to remember.
“Southampton certainly deserves celebrating. We’ve had a fantastic year so far, and our diverse range of events and experiences showcases the very best of what our city has to offer.
“From the exhilarating Southampton International Boat Show to the soul-stirring beats of Beats and Eats, we can’t wait for our vibrant community to come together for a lot of fun – come rain or shine!”
