Following a bumper inaugural edition in 2023, Old City Sounds is set to return to Bristol’s Old City on Saturday 24 August – promising to be the go-to destination for music lovers and families alike this August Bank Holiday. 

Transforming the event with a fresh twist, this year’s performances will move into some of Bristol’s most iconic venues, showcasing businesses from the Old City and working in partnership with them to programme the event. Ensuring an unmissable experience come rain or shine, the one-day celebration will also feature a vibrant Kids Zone at St Stephen’s Church, with a range of engaging activities and workshops for the young (as well as the young at heart!) to ensure that everyone is welcome.

Nearby, Welsh Back will see DJ’s take to the decks on board the 6 O’clock Gin Boat, curated by international DJ and live act booking agency, The Pool Agency.  

St Nicholas Street is set to be an eclectic mix of sounds, with Mothers Ruin and The Crown  playing host to a jammed packed line-up of alternative bands and DJ’s. Mr Wolfs will be engaging the masses with a lively musical collective of DJ’s and bands. Seamus O’Donells will also fill the air with a traditional Irish folk session and drag show.

The Kids Zone at St Stephen’s Church will be a hub of activity from 2 – 5pm, featuring crafts and face painting and a variety of workshops and performances designed to entertain and engage the young ones. Starting at 2pm with a Circus Skills Workshop, kids can learn juggling, hula hooping and other unique circus skills.

At 2.30pm, an energetic Bhangra Dance Workshop will introduce children to the vibrant dance form of Bhangra, followed by the African Drumming Workshop at 3pm, where young participants can try their hand at drumming under expert guidance. The schedule then repeats to offer all a chance to catch another Circus Skills Workshop at 3.30pm, a second Bhangra Dance Workshop at 4pm and a final African Drumming Workshop at 4.30pm, wrapping up the day with rhythmic beats.