Published on 5th March 2024

4 images - top one shows a festival scene, left one shows someone playing a saxophone and another singing. Middle photo includes two children with food and last photo on the right includes children playing cricket.

Families and visitors are invited to enjoy a vast selection of summer events in the town.

Visitors and communities across the town can look forward to a vast array of unmissable events and activities, which are set to transform the town into a vibrant hub of activity this Summer.

Cheltenham Borough Council has teamed up with a number of local partners including No Child Left Behind (NCLB) and Marketing Cheltenham to deliver an unforgettable programme of events.

There will be something on offer for everyone with highlights including the NCLB’s Summer of Play event on Friday 2 August 2024; which will be in place of National Play Day and feature a diverse range of children’s activities and entertainment.

The event will include performances from local bands and an advice village where people can get support and guidance from local community organisations. Sports enthusiasts will have the chance to take advantage of active taster sessions to tie in with the Olympics and there will also be a delicious selection of food and drink for people to enjoy.

The council’s Marketing Cheltenham team are also promoting events for families, and those interested in an action-packed Summer over the coming months. People looking to embrace their inner artist, creative streak or love for sport can find a vast array of events, festivals, live performances and more through the Visit Cheltenham website. 

While the Midsummer Fiesta is taking a break this year, the council will be working closely with its voluntary sector partners to ensure its return in 2025.

Cllr Flo Clucas, cabinet member for safety and communities said: “We understand the value of bringing families and communities together in Cheltenham, which is why we’re always looking at new innovative opportunities for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for something to keep your family entertained, enjoy sports or have a penchant for the arts, we’ve got you covered.”

“The vast assortment of events we’ve got lined up this year, is a great example of this and will provide a whole new range of activities and entertainment for people of all ages to take part in during the summer break, so please come along and have a great time.”

“I’d also like to personally thank all our partners and sponsors who are working hard with us to bring to the town a summer, jam packed full of fun. While the much-loved Midsummer Fiesta is taking a break this year, I’m confident residents will enjoy the fantastic selection we’ve got lined up, which will provide plenty of opportunities to get creative and keep active – especially with it being an Olympic year. After last year’s cancellation due to bad weather, I know the Midsummer Fiesta will be missed in 2024, but I am confident that the Council and voluntary sector partners will be working hard to bring the event back in 2025.”

Helen Mole, head of place marketing and inward investment for the council, said: “There are hundreds of events already planned for this summer in Cheltenham, many of which are free, including community events and festivals, markets, and children’s activities.”

“We also have a wide range of green spaces and attractions offering free or cheap days out, including the Wilson Art Gallery and Museum which is free to visit and is planning a range of summer activities for all the family. There is something for everyone. If you’re interested in having an unforgettable Summer, please check out the Visit Cheltenham website for a full list of events and inspiration.”

For media enquiries, contact: communications, telephone 01242 264231, email [email protected].

Notes:

  • The Midsummer Fiesta is organised in partnership by Cheltenham Borough Council, Cheltenham West End Partnership, West Cheltenham Partnership and with support from so many volunteers, providers, caterers, stall holders, acts and performers. For more information please contact [email protected]
  • To find out more about No Child Left Behind (NCLB), the Summer of Play event, the community agreement, workshops or other events contact No Child Left Behind on Facebook and Twitter or visit [email protected].
  • The Summer of Play event is partly funded by the Government’s holiday activities and food (HAF) programme – more information can be found on the Gloucestershire County Council website. It has also been designed to link in with the Olympics and the Council’s physical activity and sports strategy for the town; making sure everyone has the support they need to access and benefit from physical activity opportunities in Cheltenham. The strategy can be viewed on Cheltenham Borough Council’s website.
  • The council’s Marketing Cheltenham team, work with event organisers to support activities in Cheltenham and promote what’s on for residents and visitors. Details of events or inspiration on places to go and things to do for visitors and residents can be found on the Visit Cheltenham website