SME
Published: May 28, 2024 | Updated: 28th May 2024
The Bedford Place Summer Festival is getting ready to return for another year.
The festival, which is coming back to Southampton city centre on Sunday, 23rd June, will shine a light on independent businesses in the area.
The festival has a new organiser for 2024. Matt Sanger, who 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 mainly take place in the newly pedestrianised area of Carlton Place – Lower and Upper Bannister Street. Alongside the local businesses will be a range of entertainment, including the musical stylings of Southampton Ukulele Jam and top entertainment with Jake’s Circus.
Bedford and Carlton place favourites 7Bone, Piecarumba and Overdraft will also be on hand with food and refreshments.
Matt added: “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.”
‘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.”
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