What do giant puppets, samba rhythms, sea swimming, beach yoga and a giant community parade have in common?
You’ll find them all at the Weston Arts + Health Festival, returning to Weston-super-Mare from 10-12 July, 2026 for a weekend packed with free experiences on the seafront.
A playground of creativity
Now in its seventh year, the festival transforms the beach and promenade into a vibrant playground of creativity, bringing together live performances, hands-on workshops, outdoor adventures and unexpected encounters for all ages.
At the heart of the action is the Festival Hub on the beach next to Revo Kitchen, where visitors can drop in throughout the weekend and discover everything from weaving and storytelling workshops to photography, poetry and food-inspired activities.
Walk of the dandelion
Look out for the spectacular community Flag Carnival as colourful hand-stitched flags parade through Weston accompanied by the infectious sounds of North Somerset Samba. Afterwards, the flags will remain on display across the beach, creating a striking celebration of the people, places and communities that make North Somerset special.
The festival is also bringing some wonderfully unusual experiences to the seafront. Step inside Community Chest, an immersive escape-room style adventure on the beach, join the Bird Rave and celebrate nature through music and movement, or meet the magnificent Walk of the Dandelion, an eight-foot-tall puppet wandering the summer promenade.
Get active at the festival
If getting active is more your thing, there are plenty of opportunities to make the most of Weston Bay with beach yoga, sea swimming sessions, kite flying, sound baths and guided walks designed to help people reconnect with the coast and with each other.
One of the festival’s most-loved features is its relaxed atmosphere. There are no barriers, no pressure and no tickets needed for most activities. Visitors can simply wander, watch, join in and discover something unexpected around every corner.
Whether you’re looking for family fun, creative inspiration, a new experience by the sea or simply an excuse to spend a summer weekend in Weston-super-Mare, this unique festival offers plenty of reasons to explore.
Ready to join in
The Weston Arts + Health Festival takes place from Friday 10 to Sunday 12 July, with most events free to attend. Some activities and the Friday evening Disco Ceilidh require advance booking.