Things to do in Bristol this February

We’ve made it through January, and 2024 is now officially in full swing. But let’s not rush into the year too quickly. It may be a cold, short month, and the lead up to exams, but there is plenty to see and do this month in Bristol. Despite it being the shortest month, there is so much going on in the vibrant city in February. Ranging from the lively Bristol Light Festival to the grand opening of iconic bars, kickstart your February with these exciting events.

 

Bundle up and take a stroll

Although it may still be cold outside (sometimes a little too cold!), we recommend layering up and stepping outside for a breath of fresh air this month. Whether you choose to wander for 20 minutes or explore the various parks, gardens, and woodlands the city has to offer, there’s no shortage of winter walks near Bristol. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to end up at the pub – you’ve earned it after all!

 

Immerse yourself in Wake The Tiger’s mind-bending expansion

You may have already heard of, or visited, Wake The Tiger (if you haven’t, you ought to!) but have you heard it’s expanding!? On 2nd February, OUTERverse, a captivating 1,000 square metre expansion of Wake The Tiger – the world’s first ‘Amazement Park’ – will be unveiled. This addition includes 15 new spaces to explore, featuring a giant illuminated head at its centre, a segment from an actual plane, a cosmic kitchen, nostalgic childhood toys, and a seven-meter-high slide transporting you back to Earth 2.0.

 

Support local music during Independent Venue Week

Get in there quick with this one, as it only runs until 4th February! Independent Venue Week celebrates the vibrant music and arts scene in Bristol. Nine shows will take place at Dareshack, The Gryphon, and Mr Wolfs, showcasing the brilliance of independent venues and shine a light on Bristol’s music culture. Performances include James Humphrys, Drop in the Ocean + Whiskey Rebellion, Wolfgang Valbrun and more.

 

Release your inner artisté with ‘Paint in The Dark’ experience

Gather your friends for a unique ‘Paint in The Dark’ experience this February. Embrace the darkness as you paint under UV lights whilst sipping on wine, beer or soft drinks. This adult-only, neon painting workshop runs from 6th February to the 9th.

 

Cheer on your chosen team at Six Nations in Bristol

The Six Nations tournament kicks off on 2nd February, and Bristol offers fantastic venues to catch all the rugby action. The England V Wales match on 10th February will be a massive highlight, bringing out the best in Rugby fans near the border. The atmosphere is not one to miss!

 

Illuminate the dark nights at The Bristol Light Festival

The annual Bristol Light Festival will run from 2nd February until the 11th. The fourth edition of this award-winning festival introduces six new installations to the city, featuring giant bubbles, illuminated arches, enormous rings of light, interactive swings, and more. Experience the city in a new light, quite literally.

 

Enjoy the magic of a candlelit concert

Imagine an exclusive venue lit up by thousands of candles, where a four-string quartet serenades you with classical adaptations of popular music, cool right? With a repertoire ranging from modern hits by Taylor Swift to timeless classics by Fleetwood Mac, there’s a concert for everyone.

 

Ring in the Year of the Dragon

Celebrate the Lunar New Year at the Chinese supermarket Wai Yee Hong in Eastville on 10th February. Witness everything from traditional lion dances, kung fu demonstrations, Chinese folk music performances, and explore an Asian food market. If you miss the festivities, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery will continue the celebration on 17th and 18th February with free performances and activities.

 

Raise a glass at the reopening of The Colosseum

After a temporary closure last year, The Colosseum in Redcliffe reopens on 3rd February under the ownership of Mother’s Ruin and The Crown, part of the World-Famous Dive Bars Group. Whilst the iconic sign remains, the pub has undergone a complete makeover, promising a fresh and revitalised atmosphere.

 

Enjoy tasty cocktails at the return of Goldbrick House

After a 10-year hiatus, Goldbrick House is making a comeback in the same location on busy Park Street (walking distance from our student accommodation!)

Described as “Bristol’s new favourite luxury bar and social experience” the reopening in February promises a multi-level experience, serving wine, bubbles, cocktails, and spirits.

 

Party at the return of Simple Things

Another comeback alert! After a four-year hiatus, Simple Things music Festival returns to Bristol, celebrating its 10th edition on 24th February at the newly reopened Bristol Beacon. The day and night program will feature eclectic and ground-breaking names in music, including Max Cooper, Warmduscher, Les Savy, Fever Ray and more.

 

Explore works by influential artists at Hidden Bristol Gallery

Throughout February, Hidden Bristol is presenting an art exhibition showcasing original works by two of the 20th century’s most influential artists, Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse. The exhibition features sought-after lithographs from Matisse’s last portfolio and a unique artist’s palette coated with oil paint directly from Picasso’s estate. Visit between 1st February and 6th March for a glimpse into these iconic images.

 

Unleash your wild side at Coyote Ugly Saloon

Coyote Ugly Saloon opens it’s doors on the Harbourside on 15th February, marking the seventh anniversary of the first UK Coyote Ugly Saloon. Taking over the recently closed Revolución de Cuba, this legendary bar promises bottomless brunches, opportunities to dance on the bar, impressive drink packages, and unique seasonal parties. Get ready for the craziest parties from “The most famous bar on the planet.”

 

Someone say Valentines Day?

Whilst February offers a diverse array of activities beyond Valentine’s Day, it’s hard to ignore the romantic vibes in Bristol. Whether you’re searching for date ideas, romantic spots to express your love, or intimate restaurants, Bristol has it all.

 

And there you have it, it might be the shortest month, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be full of exciting experiences. What will you get up to in Bristol this month?

 

 

Published: 30.01.24 by Phoebe Clutton