Bristol's Family Event Scene

While Bristol is well known for it's hedonistic nightlife, it's also home to many young families looking for child-friendly events. A lot of the city's key tourist attractions like @Bristol (now renamed We The Curious) and the Aquarium run one-off events providing entertainment for all the family. Both are located on the Harbourside making that a key location for families visiting from out of town. The SS Great Britain is a big draw for families wanting to look round the famous naval ship, but they also offering chilling pirate stories as an additional attraction.

Windmill Hill City Farm and Bristol Zoo run regular workshops introducing children to environmental issues and you can also get the kids started on a budding acting career at the Tobacco Factory Theatre.

Ashton Court hosts the Bristol Balloon Festival annually. A wildly popular family event featuring (you guessed it) giant hot air balloons as well as flying demonstrations from the RFA and enough food and drink to keep any kid happy.

Buy tickets for family event events in Bristol

What our editors say

“Bring the whole family along for a festive afternoon packed with Christmas activities, singalongs, games, food and plenty of seasonal cheer. Get into the Christmas spirit with something for all ages, while the bar stays open late for the grown-ups to relax and enjoy a festive drink. Come along in your best Christmas jumpers and join us for a fun-filled start to the festive season!”
From: Christmas Winter Wonderland

“It's the ever popular Quiz Night On The Hill Get family and friends together to form a quiz team of up to 6 persons, £4 per person (CASH only please). 80 questions from general knowledge to history, sport, music and more! £40 Cash prize for the winning team, booby prize for the losing team! Doors/bar opens 7pm, quiz starts 7.30pm Bar open 18+ Event (Every 2nd Thursday of the month!) On The Hill, Bishopsworth Road, Bristol, BS13 7JW”
From: Quiz Night On The Hill

“Get up, grab the mic and sing your heart out at our karaoke night! Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just fancy giving it a go, everyone’s welcome to take to the stage and pick their favourite tunes. From 5–9pm, it’s family-friendly fun for all ages, with plenty of songs to choose from and a chance for everyone to have a singalong. Then from 9–11pm, the mic is yours for an adults-only karaoke session. Bring your friends, pick your favourite song and get ready for a night of big tunes, questionable vocals and plenty of laughs. Food available throughout the evening.”
From: Karaoke Bar Night

“Head to Trinity for our end of summer community celebration Set in our historic grounds this family friendly day shines a light on some of the creative activities and groups that call Trinity home. Take part in an Art for Wellbeing workshop, listen to Bristol Samba play and then participate in a drumming workshop, hear our creative writing group share work, join in with our Gentle Dance workshop. Featuring: * live music * youth programme performances * workshops for all ages * nature & craft drop-in activities * vegetarian lunch available”
From: Community Day Celebration

“SteamFest – 19th Sept 2026 Keep summer going at Stokes! Join us for an afternoon of sun-soaked fun, street food, and live music at Steam from 3PM–10PM. Chill with live tunes, including vinyl DJs, get competitive with our lawn games, check out the local stalls, and soak up the festival atmosphere right in the heart of the city. DJs to be announced! Entry is free, but we're offering a fantastic deal on drinks all day. Buy a £5 wristband and enjoy happy hour drinks until 10pm - usually reserved for weekdays. Dogs welcome and kids go free, so it's fun for all the family!”
From: STEAMFEST