Unmissable Events and Activities Happening in the South of England in 2024

The South of England is an incredibly diverse part of the country, blending a rich history with modern culture. Known for its prestigious universities, beautiful cities and unique cultural heritage, the South of England has so much to offer visitors and residents alike. There’s so much going on here that it can be difficult to know where to start, so in this article, we’re going to help you stay on top of the most unmissable events and activities happening around the South of England in 2024.

Soak Up the Sounds of Glastonbury Music Festival in June

Glastonbury Festival is one of the hottest music festivals in the UK calendar, so it’s definitely one to remember if you’re in the area this June. This year features a star-studded lineup that includes acts like Dua Lipa, Shania Twain, Coldplay and Sza. This iconic music pilgrimage runs over four days and is jam-packed with musical brilliance. With over 100 stages and areas set up for the event, you’ll be spoiled for choice in terms of who to see and what to listen to.

Photo by James Genchi on Unsplash

Keep Your Eyes on the Skies During the Portsmouth Kite Festival in July

If you’re looking for something a little different this July, then the Portsmouth Kite Festival is definitely an event to consider. This fantastic event is completely free to attend and features hundreds of beautifully designed kites taking to the sky. This is one of the most popular kite festivals in the world, drawing in huge crowds along the Southsea common. As well as seeing an array of different kites taking flight, you’ll also have a chance to learn how the professionals create and control their kites. It’s a fantastic day out for people of all ages, so make sure you don’t miss out!

Photo by The Kite Society

Watch High-Speed Regatta Racing at Cowes Week in July & August

The Isle of Wight has plenty to offer, from its beautiful coastal walks to a rich history of incredibly well-preserved fossils. One of the main events for the Isle of Wight in August is Cowes Week, one of the world’s oldest sailing regattas. This high-octane sailing race includes 40 daily sailing races that pit more than 8,000 competitors against one another in various trials. It’s the largest regatta of its kind in the world, and for those of us who love boating, it’s a truly unmissable experience. As well as racing, there are plenty of other fun activities going on throughout the week, including live music and an assortment of food stalls to sample.

Photo by Benjamin Elliott on Unsplash

Head to Hastings for a Seafood Extravaganza in September

If you’re a fan of seafood fare, then Hastings is the place to go in September as it plays host to the Hastings Seafood and Wine Festival. This much-loved festival brings together local seafood, delicious wine and some of the best local music to create a memorable experience. You’ll get a chance to sample some of the local delicacies like classic fish and chips or try out something a bit more exotic like Portuguese fish stew. Of course, sampling all of this delicious seafood is thirsty work, so you’ll be happy to hear there will also be plenty of wine and beer available from local suppliers. As well as the food and drink, this festival offers a number of educational activities such as cooking classes and children's activities.

Travel Back to the 1940s

If you’re interested in World War 2 Britain, then the Wallingford Back to the Forties day could be of great interest to you. This September, you’ll get a chance to experience what life was like during the Second World War in Britain thanks to over 100 re-enactors and lovingly designed sets that recreate what times were like back then. You’ll have a chance to learn about how things like rationing worked, see various military displays and even join in the fun by looking out for the camouflaged sniper or watching for shady dealings at the station. It will also have vintage cars and motorcycles, so if you’re a history buff then this could be an incredible day out.

Celebrate Bonfire Night at the Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival this November

If you’re in or around Somerset this November, then you might want to check out the Guy Fawkes Carnival in Bridgwater. This historic event has been around since the 1600s when local residents would create effigies of Guy Fawkes to burn as a way to celebrate the failed gunpowder plot. In modern times, this festival incorporates over 100 illuminated floats, live music and dancing processions that draw in huge crowds. This is a fantastic event that’s fun for all the family, so definitely add it to your calendar if you can.

Embrace the Winter Solstice at Burning the Clocks in December

If you’re looking for something that isn’t a Christmas market this December, then join in the solstice celebrations in Brighton at the Burning the Clocks parade. This celebration brings the people of Brighton and Hove together to create and parade hand-made willow lanterns throughout the city. This is a celebration of the changing seasons and occurs on the shortest day of the year - the winter solstice. Alongside the parade, there’s a carnival that’s filled with live music, food and fun.

Photo Ray Gibson

Secure the Best Locum Opportunities in the South

There’s plenty to see in the South of England, from the coastal towns to the hustle and bustle of big city life. If you’re looking to secure the best locum opportunities during your travels, let our specialists at Globe Locums help you. View our latest locum vacancies today to find your dream locum job in the South of England.