Thousands of families and music lovers are set to fill the streets of Bath on Friday 15 May as Party in the City returns for its biggest year yet.
The free multi-venue celebration, running from 5pm, will see live music spill out of pubs, clubs, churches, museums and galleries across the city, with 50 venues taking part.
The event, which launches Bath Festivals’ four-week programme, brings together hundreds of performers for one unforgettable night. From pop and jazz to folk, funk, choral and classical, there’s something for every taste.
This year introduces a new twist, with venues specialising in a single genre, making it easier for families to settle in and enjoy their favourite style of music without moving around.
Highlights for 2026 include performances from schools and community choirs at Bath Abbey, an eclectic mix of classical, jazz and folk at the Guildhall, and a lively all-ages atmosphere at Green Park Station, which will also host a full weekend of events.
The Forum will host a dedicated Youth Stage, showcasing inspiring projects from state schools across the region, while Komedia will be the go-to spot for high-energy contemporary acts and late-night entertainment.
Families can explore the city at their own pace, whether staying in one venue or wandering between locations, with music around every corner.
Festival director Chris Rogers said, “Party in the City isn’t just something that happens in Bath – it’s something Bath does together. And, yes this is the biggest event yet, but that’s because more people have got involved. We have created a culture where everyone is welcome and this underpins our commitment to grow smarter while keeping it human and spontaneous.”
Beyond the main event, the music continues across the weekend. The Festival of Choirs takes place at Green Park Station on Saturday 16 May, featuring more than 750 singers, followed by workshops on Sunday.
New for this year is The Kids Are Alright, a battle of the bands competition for young and emerging talent, with the final taking place live in Bath.
Families can also download the Party in the City app to plan their evening, with options to search by venue, artist or genre. More than 4,000 people used the app last year to map out their perfect night.
While the event is free, visitors are encouraged to donate or purchase a £10 VIP wristband to support the future of the festival and enjoy added perks on the night.
