Saturday 23 August marks the return of Old City Sounds for its third edition, once again aligning with the city’s longest-running jazz celebration
08/05/2025
Bristol’s historic Old City is set to come alive with music, community and culture this summer as Bristol City Centre Business Improvement District (BID) brings back Old City Sounds for a third year on Saturday 23 August 2025. The free one-day festival will fill venues with live performances, DJs, family activities and surprise sets in celebration of the city’s diverse and vibrant music scene.
This year’s event once again aligns with the Bristol Jazz Festival, headlined by the legendary Old Duke Jazz Festival – now in its 58th year of showcasing live jazz performances over the August Bank Holiday weekend.
The synergy between the two events will transform the Old City into a hub of rhythm and creativity, inviting locals and visitors alike to explore venues, discover emerging talent and enjoy live music in some of Bristol’s most atmospheric streets and spaces.
From genre-blending DJ sets and intimate acoustic gigs to family-friendly workshops and hidden musical gems, Old City Sounds is designed to offer something for everyone – all within walking distance in the heart of Bristol.
With full line-up and venue announcements still to come, organisers promise a carefully curated day-to-night programme, building on the buzz and success of previous editions. Visitors can expect performances spanning jazz, funk, soul, electronic, acoustic and more, across a mix of iconic and unexpected venues.
A major highlight of the weekend will be the Old Duke Jazz Festival, which continues its rich tradition of free, live jazz from some of the UK’s top artists – right outside one of Bristol’s most iconic music venues. The Duke’s enduring legacy as a cornerstone of Bristol’s jazz culture makes it a fitting partner for Old City Sounds’ mission to champion local talent and live performance.
