B&NES looks ahead to packed autumn and winter events

Bath and North East Somerset has hosted a vibrant and successful summer season which saw more than 190,000 people welcomed to 25 events – and the excitement is set to continue for the rest of 2025.

After a sensational summer with highlights including the Robbie Williams concerts at the Royal Crescent, Keynsham Music Festival and the Bath Rugby Victory Parade, a standout event for the autumn is the Jane Austen Festival 250th celebrations in September which include a Regency wedding ceremony for the winners of Bath & North East Somerset Council’s unique competition.

The Bath Autumn Fayre will bring street food and live entertainment to the city from October 3 to October 5 and Bath Oktoberfest returns to Royal Victoria Park with live Oompah bands, traditional karaoke and axe-throwing from October 24 to October 26.

The Midsomer Norton Illuminated Carnival on November 10 brings the community together for an evening of glittering spectacle including a procession of 30m long light-encrusted carts.

Plenty of festive cheer beckons at the iconic Bath Christmas Market which returns for its 25th anniversary event from November 27 to December 14, transforming the city centre into a winter wonderland with twinkling chalets, unique gifts and gourmet food and drink.

An estimated 444,000 visitors visited the 2024 Bath Christmas Market which created a £60.4m turnover for businesses, support for more than 500 jobs and a £48.9m associated spend in the city.

Meanwhile, the Keynsham Winter Festival on November 29 will see more Christmas market stalls, local entertainers and free family activities bringing the high street to life.

The council supports holders of outdoor events with step-by-step advice on how the process works and how to get the licences and permissions needed.

Councillor Manda Rigby, cabinet member for Communications and Community, said: “The energy and enthusiasm shown by hundreds of thousands of people for our summer events schedule has been unmatched – and there’s much more to come this autumn and winter. From lovers of literature to foodies and festive shoppers, there really is something for everyone.

“Bath and North East Somerset is a fantastic area for events of any size and our brilliant Events team is here to guide event holders through the planning and delivery stages, one step at a time.

“We want to thank our communities for their patience and support during busy periods as we work to support the fantastic events our area attracts. Your cooperation helps make these events happen and enriches the culture of our city and towns.”

Anyone wishing to hold an event in B&NES can find out more about the process on the events webpage