Published: 26/04/2024
What events and activities are happening this summer in our beautiful city of Cambridge? Well, where do we begin? Last Spring, we published a blog highlighting the must-do events over the summer period…but what is happening this year? Are the classic events returning? Are new ones being launched? The list of pastimes is endless; you are in for a treat.The summer of 2024 promises to be packed with exciting events catering for all ages and interests. From concerts to beer festivals and silent discos to chilli-tasting competitions, there is something for everyone, whatever tickles your fancy. We promise you will not be disappointed. So, let’s dive in…
Cambridge Beer Festival - the Cambridge Beer Festival is a staple in the city's summer line-up, which is kicking off on 20th May to celebrate its 50th anniversary. Held at the iconic Cambridge Jesus Green, this festival is a paradise for beer lovers and casual drinkers alike. With over 200 local and international beers to sample, along with ciders, meads, and wines (yep, you won’t go thirsty!), it's a true celebration of all things brewed. Plus, the lively atmosphere, music and delicious food stalls make it an event not to be missed. Organised by CAMRA, it is the UK’s longest-running CAMRA beer festival and is currently one of the largest regional beer festivals in the UK.
Cambridge Club Festival – Launched in 2017 as a one-day event, the Cambridge Club Festival expanded to a packed three-day weekend in 2021. The festival includes music, comedy, live podcasts, family activities, group games, wellness, and more, with something to offer everyone. Their tagline, ‘A Journey of Disco and Discovery’, sums up the funky vibe of the event, which primarily features Disco, Funk, Soul and R&B artists, as well as DJs from across the dance and electronic music scene. This June, the festival will welcome Chaka Khan, Gabrielle, Earth Wind & Fire Experience and many more live acts to the main stage. You do not want to miss this!
Cambridge Folk Festival – Yes, don’t panic; it is back! Can you imagine the uproar if it wasn’t? The Cambridge Folk Festival is one of the world's longest-running and most famous folk festivals, bringing together an eclectic mix of world music. The festival takes place over four days (24th - 27th July), with an impressive line-up of established artists and raw local talent, making it a must-attend event for music lovers. First held in 1965, this annual event is perfect for anyone looking for the feel and atmosphere of a festival set in the deep countryside but with close links to the city. It is definitely one of the city’s highlights every summer. If you like a good ol’ boogey, this is the place to be.
Cambridge Sausage and Cider Festival - If you're a foodie, you won't want to miss the Cambridge Sausage and Cider Festival, which takes place in August of this year. As the name implies, there are sausages wherever you turn, in every flavour you can imagine. But for those who don’t like a sausage (no rude comments, please), there are other food options available. This day festival is packed full of delicious food, highly alcoholic beverages and lots of slightly crazy events to join in with…if you so choose, that is! It is the perfect place to indulge in some culinary delights. We also heard a rumour that there might be a silent disco…
Festivals aside…
If festivals are not your thing, then don’t panic. There are loads of other reasons that people flock to this beautiful city over the warmer months, and we aren’t just talking about the punts – because that has to be at the top of your Summer bucket list. Let’s take a quick look at a few of them.
Cambridge Standing Tall – now, this is something a bit different. If you are looking for a FREE family activity (donations optional) that is also a lot of fun, then this is perfect. 31 beautifully decorated giraffe sculptures have recently taken up residence across the city, all sponsored by a local business and designed by an established artist. Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to find them all. Delivered by local charity Break with Wild in Art, the purpose of the quirky exhibition is to help raise vital funds for Break to continue their work in supporting the county’s young care leavers.
Cambridge United Football Club - If you're a football fan, don't miss the chance to watch Cambridge United in action at the Abbey Stadium. The club has a passionate fan base, and the atmosphere is amazing at every match. Check out the fixtures and plan a trip to the stadium for a fun-filled day out.
Music In The Parks – the summer holidays can be an expensive time. However much we try to stick to a budget, it is tough, and all the little extras can add up. So, where possible, it’s great to slot in as many free activities as possible. Money isn’t always needed to have quality time with loved ones. From July, there is a programme of free Sunday afternoon concerts taking place in beautiful green open spaces throughout the city. These concerts are available to everyone, and picnics are welcome.
This blog only skims the surface of what Cambridge offers when it comes to summer entertainment. We could list all the must-do events, but it would take us weeks! The reason that Cambridge is such a popular place to live, work, and visit is because of the diverse range of activities, festivals, and amenities that are available to the whole family. If you like food, then you have hundreds of options. If you like music, then you can pick from a number of festivals depending on your taste. And if you like a bit of healthy competition, you might want to try your luck at the chilli-eating competition at the Sausage and Cider festival…then again, you might want to swerve that one!
So, grab your diaries, save the dates and call up your friends and family because summer 2024 is set to be the best yet.