Top Southampton events of 2025

Southampton is jam-packed with events throughout the year. From music festivals and races to shows and celebrating history moments, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the city. We’ve rounded up some of the top events throughout the year so you can get planning now.

Reoccurring events

Carlton Place Market Facebook UGC May 2024

Carlton Place Monthly Market, Carlton Place (FREE)

Held on the first Saturday of every month, browse a variety of outdoor market stalls in the city's newly pedestrianised area.

Vegan Market, 8th November, 10.30am - 4pm Guildhall Square (FREE) 

Bringing a huge variety of vegan street food vendors, artisan bakers, craft brewers, ethical jewellers, local artists and more to Guildhall Square. 

Weekly Southampton Street Market, January  – October, Fridays and Saturdays 9am – 3pm - Bargate

Weekly market in front surrounding the historic Bargate. Local traders selling fresh produce, jewellery, homeware as well as food and drink.

A Very Respectable Company: Jane Austen & her Southampton Circle Exhibition, 29th March - 31st October, SeaCity Museum

A never-before-seen exhibition of rare paintings and personal items from descendants and families linked to Jane Austen’s time in Southampton.

Jane Austen 250 LANDSCAPE High Res Assets

June

Southampton Street Food Circus, 6th - 8th June, Crosshouse Carpark

A block party on the waters edge filled with tasty delights from some of the best street food vendors in the region.

World Ocean Open Day, 8th June, National Oceanography Centre (FREE*)

Dive into the incredible world of our oceans with interactive displays, hands-on experiences, and captivating talks. Connect with marine scientists, uncover ground-breaking research, and get a closer look at life beneath the surface. Event is free but registration required to access the site and to attend a session.

Southampton Summer Sessions, 13th – 29th June, Guildhall Square

A star-studded lineup of acts are set to play in Guildhall Square including McFly, The Human League, Train and The Stranglers. Head to our dedicated summer sessions page here.

Bedford Place Summer Festival, 22nd June, Bedford Place and Carlton Place

The Bedford Place Summer Festival is back for 2025! From 11am - 8pm visit Carlton Place and enjoy a wider variety of local traders, live entertainment, kids activities and more. 

Turner Sims Summer Family Day, 29th June, Turner Sims (University of Southampton) (FREE*)

Head out with the family to enjoy a day filled with musical activities and workshops for all ages. Some performances are ticketed so be sure to visit their event programme ahead of time to plan your visit.

Southampton Summer Sessions

July

Southampton Thai Festival, 5th & 6th July, Hoglands Park

A packed programme of live entertainment and performances throughout te weekend, local businesses and food and drink, celebrating Thai culture in Southampton. 

Mela Festival, 12th & 13th July, Hoglands Park (FREE)

A colourful celebration modern and traditional Asian culture through music, dance, and family-friendly activities, showcasing performances by renowned artists from around the globe. New for 2025, enjoy Mela festival over two days! 

Tapestry Festival, 19th -20th July, Westquay Esplanade (FREE)

New for 2025, Tapestry is a vibrant celebration of Southampton’s rich cultural landscape, showcasing world-class artists, rising stars, and exclusive collaborations — all highlighting the city’s unique connection to Jane Austen.

People sat outside on grass enjoying live music at mela festival

August

Club Classics Orchestra (House & Garage Special), 1st August, Silverlake Stadium 

The incredible Club Classics Orchestra will be arriving in Eastleigh for an open-air concert. Enjoy festival-style bars and a range of independently owned catering vendors on site including gourmet burgers and street food. 

Country Road Southampton, 2nd August, Silverlake Stadium 

The Ultimate Outdoor Country Music Festival is Back and Bigger Than Ever. Get ready to boot-scoot and boogie yourself into the heart and soul of country music, culture, and cuisine for a day you’ll never forget.

The Hundred, 5th - 31st August, Utilita Bowl

The Hundred brings fast-paced, action-packed cricket to Southampton with thrilling matches and a festival atmosphere.

Southampton Pride, 23rd – 24th August, Guildhall Square (FREE)

One of the biggest events in the Southampton calendar celebrate pride across two whole days! The full line-up is yet to be announced so make sure you keep an eye on their socials.

Southampton Cocktail Week, 29th August – 7th September, Multi-venues

Discover the city's vibrant cocktail scene with exclusive offers, events, and concoctions in this week long celebration.

Performer signing and wearing rainbow coloured jumpsuit Southampton Pride

September

Heritage Open Days, 12th - 21st September, Multi-venues (FREE)

On select days, you will have open access to some of the city's most beloved heritage venues.

Music in the City, 13th - 14th September, city centre (FREE)

A weekend music festival celebrating diverse talents across a variety of unique venues throughout the city.

Southampton International Boat Show, 19th – 28th September, Mayflower Park

At this 56th edition of this annual event, expect water sports, food and drink, live music and of course – boats!

Dash in the Dark, 20th September, Southampton Common

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance's 5K fun run is returning to Southampton Common. Gather your glow gang and get ready to walk, jog, run or dance your way around this special night time mission.

Person doing water sports at Southampton International Boat Show

October

Oktoberfest - Guildhall Square

Grab your lederhosen and enjoy all things Bavarian with traditional foods, the world's best beers, and live entertainment.

Four people standing and smiling with drinks at Oktoberfest

November & December

Southampton Christmas Market, November - January, city centre (FREE)

An exciting mix of festive entertainment, rides, food, drink, and shopping for the whole family.

Jane Austen's Birthday Ball, 13th December, Townhill Park House (FREE)

Celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th Birthday in true Regency style at the Jane Austen Birthday Ball! Enjoy an evening of elegant dancing, live performances, and period entertainment in a stunning historic venue.

Ferris wheel lit up at night with christmas chalets and people

*Please note event information is correct at time of publishing but may be subject to change. Always check with the event organiser before attending.

Planning your visit

Are you visiting the city for one of these events, or another? Head to the Your Visit page for travel information or why not check our Itineraries page for inspiration of what else you can do in the city whilst you’re here.

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