28 May 2024
Bedford Place Summer Festival is set to return for another year. It’s the popular festival that shines a light on independent business in Southampton and it’s set to come back to the city centre on Sunday 23rd June.
The festival has a new organiser for 2024. Matt Sanger, lectures at Solent University and has a wealth of experience in the UK and overseas as an event director. Matt is working with Bedford Place and Carlton Place traders to highlight their products and services.
Matt said: “This event is a celebration for and about the local community, and everyone is welcome. It’s completely free, and there is something for everyone.
“Local traders’ stalls will provide visitors with a mix of food, drink and artisan products to keep them well fuelled as well as presenting a host of reasons to treat themselves to something special.”
The event will be centred on the newly pedestrianised area of Carlton Place, Lower and Upper Banister Street. With lots on offer, including the musical stylings of Southampton Ukelele Jam and top entertainment with Jake’s Circus performing, there’s something for everyone.
As well as the array of traders, stallholders, and performers, there will, of course, be the Bedford Place and Carlton Place favourites; 7Bone, Piecarumba and Overdraft will all be offering food and refreshments.
“We have a huge amount of talent here and we can’t wait to showcase it. The popular Lindy Hop Dancers and Still Moving DJs are making a return this year, and there will be lots of other live music and entertainment across the day for people to enjoy,” continued Matt.
‘Raven & Bine’, Dancing Man Brewery’s second venue which will be opening in the summer will also offer food and drinks, as well as a good spot to watch some of the action.
Flo Bevis, Marketing Manager of GO! Southampton, said: “We are proud to be sponsoring this year’s Festival. This not-for-profit event helps showcase the unique mix of businesses in Carlton Place and Bedford Place and to celebrate what a beautiful, thriving area this is for those who live and work here.
“With the area fully pedestrianised, not only can we look forward to a relaxing, safe and traffic-free event with plenty of opportunities for outdoor dining, but we can also look forward to a successful summer season ahead.”
