2024 sees the return of many of Plymouth’s much loved and free events, some marking key milestones, such as Flavour Fest, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. It will also see the return of live music with Plymouth Summer Sessions set to enliven Plymouth Hoe. Get your diaries out and start planning a year of fun in Britain’s Ocean City!
New for spring 2024 – April marks the first Vegan Food Market, run by Vegan Fairs and hosted in Central Park, whilst Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival, will return to Plymouth Hoe, which includes a half marathon, 5k and 10k races with 5,000 runners and an audience of 5,000 spectators anticipated.
On 18 and 19 May, Pirates Weekend returns to the Barbican and waterfront, offering an array of family-themed activities, shanty music, and all things Pirate for a perfect family day out, followed at the end of the month by Flavour Fest, which is expanding in celebration of its 20th anniversary to include a diverse mix of interactive stalls and entertainment.
June sees the first-ever Plymouth Summer Sessions – where world-famous artists the likes of Tom Jones, Bryan Adams, Sting, Blondie and Madness will perform against the spectacular waterfront setting of Plymouth Hoe. During the same month, plans are underway for the Rehabilitation Triathlon, supported by Aecom and Armed Forces Day, in association with Babcock International. Both events will have new and exciting features for 2024.
This year’s British Firework Championships will fire up the skies with dazzling displays on 14 and 15 August. 2024 will see the return of the ‘Young People’s Choice Award’, made possible with the support of Plymouth Citybus, where a group of care experienced young judges play a central part in the judging process.
Also, during August, Central Park will see the return of the Big Tribute Festival featuring famous tribute acts, food and entertainment, and Live in the Park music concerts, with themed evenings and food traders. As August bank holiday weekend marks the end of the summer holidays, head to the city’s West End for the best party in town - the West End Carnival.
Sea-themed entertainment and delicious food are at the core of Seafest Plymouth, which takes place at the Barbican, Sutton Harbour, Waterfront and Royal William Yard – with the city’s beautiful sea views playing their part - in September. Autumn/winter will see a range of events including Bonfire Night, the Remembrance Sunday ceremony and the Christmas Market which is expected to attract 160,000 festive revellers, as well as the much-anticipated return of Winter Wonderland at Central Park with more details expected to be released in due course.
Now that’s a year to remember.
Jemima Laing, Deputy Leader of the Council, and Cabinet Member for Children's Social Care, Culture, Events and Communications says: “2024 is going to be an exciting year for Plymouth with something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie, athlete, arts, music or culture fan, you will be able to find a wide and diverse mix of entertainment on your doorstep.
“Through support from local businesses, we are able to continue to provide core events that are free to attend, providing a fantastic day out for local residents, whilst attracting visitors into Plymouth, boosting the local economy. There’s always something going on in Plymouth!”