UK events in August
London and the South East
Notting Hill Carnival, London, 25 – 26 August
Make your way to one of the world’s largest street carnivals and enjoy the annual celebration of Caribbean heritage on the streets of Notting Hill in London. There will be costume-clad dancers grooving to a range of traditional music, and street vendors selling foods like seasoned jerk chicken, callaloo, and traditional goat stew.
Broadstairs Folk Week, Kent, 9-16 August
Calling all fans of traditional folk music and dance! Broadstairs Folk Week is the perfect destination for people who love singing, dancing to and discovering new authentic music, all whilst enjoying the scenic coastline location in beautiful Kent.
Isle of Wight Garlic Festival, Isle of Wight, 17-18 August
If you ever wondered what garlic beer, garlic ice cream or a garlic bloody Mary would taste like, you should probably consider heading down to the Isle of Wight Garlic Festival! The annual celebration is sure to teach you a few things about the gastronomic wonder, including the health benefits and the different uses of the pungent bulb.
Central England
Robin Hood Festival – Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire, 5-11 August
Back for their 35th year, the Robin Hood Festival at Sherwood Forest aims to celebrate Britain’s most beloved outlaw. This year’s festival is promising to be a belter, with a brand-new live show featuring Robin Hood, his merry men, Marian and the Sheriff. Visitors will be able to watch a live jousting show featuring horse stunts, archery, staff fighting and more.
North east England
Scarborough Cricket Festival – Scarborough, North Yorkshire, 18-21 August
The annual Scarborough Cricket Festival is one of the most historic sporting events in the world, and over the years has played host to some of the world’s greatest cricketers. The ground, situated at North Marine Road, has seen large crowds of holiday makers watching first class cricket since 1876 – and with the stands built right to the boundary edge, it offers exceptional views and unique atmosphere.
North west England
World Gravy Wrestling Championships – Lancashire, 26 August
Sure to be a one of the crazier culinary competitions out there, the World Gravy Wrestling Championships gives contestants 2 minutes to demonstrate their grappling abilities, all whilst in fancy dress.
South west England
International Balloon Fiesta – Bristol, 8-11 August
For a truly unique viewing experience, pop along to the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, Europe’s largest annual meeting of hot air balloons which attracts over 130 Hot Air Balloons from all across the world. You’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the different designs of each individual hot air balloon as they fill the sky before being treated to a night time finale of illuminated balloons and fireworks.
Scotland
Edinburgh Fringe festival, Edinburgh, 2-26 August
Edinburgh Fringe Festival is a three-week long celebration of arts and culture, creating a welcoming atmosphere for creatives from all across the globe. There will be 3,500 different shows available throughout the festival, ranging from belly-aching stand-up shows to sultry cabaret performances.
Northern Ireland
Tales of the Poor House, Belfast, until 30 August- Monday to Friday at 3pm
Hear tales about Belfast’s Original Poor House, the lives of those who sought refuge in it, and the interesting, and at times turbulent, history of Belfast Charitable Society who cared for them.