AS we approach the end of 2023, a great year for entertainment across Somerset, the new year is just around the corner, and set to be a special one for the county.
2024 has some cracking events lined up - here's ten of the best taking place in Somerset next year.
January 17 - Paint & Prosecco in Taunton
A nice way to kick off the new year (if you're not doing dry January that is) - Pitcher & Piano in Taunton is combining with True to Your Art to provide a day of painting and prosecco.
From 7pm, attendants can drop in to create a piece of art to take home, with all materials and equipment provided and included in the cost of £38.50 per person, which also includes a glass of prosecco on arrival.
An experienced art teacher will be on site to guide you through your painting step by step.
To book, message the Pitcher & Piano Facebook page, call 01823 350104, or email taunton@pitcherandpiano.com.
February 13- Ministry of Science Live! Science Saved the World
In February, Taunton Brewhouse will host a one of a kind science show for kids.
Presenters will delve into how science shapes the modern world we live in, 'with a few loud bangs along the way!'
Attendants can expect 20ft liquid nitrogen clouds, exploding oxygen and hydrogen balloons, fire tornados, hydrogen bottle rockets, ignited methane, and even a self-build hovercraft.
Tickets cost £18-£19 and can be booked on the Taunton Brewhouse website.
March 3 - Taunton Vegan Market
As the welcomed spring weather begins to emerge, why not head down to Goodland Gardens in Taunton to check out the vegan market.
There will be plenty of grassy areas to sit, dogs are welcome, and best of all, entry is free.
Attendants can expect everything from street food to sweet treats and bakes, vegan cheese to ethical fashion brands, zero waste household to cruelty-free skincare, and more.
April 27 - Butcombe Trail Ultramarathon 2024
Hoping to get out of your comfort zone in the new year? What better way to do so than by signing up to either a 50 or 56 mile trail run?
Starting in Rowberrow, Shipham, on the edge of the scenic Mendip Hills AONB, the seventh ever Butcombe Trail Ultramarathon will see only the fittest participants cross the finish line after tackling over 50 miles of tough terrain.
To enter, visit the Butcombe Trail Ultra official website.
June 26-30 - Glastonbury Festival
What list of Somerset's biggest events would be complete without the world-famous Glastonbury Festival?
Although the line-up has not yet been announced for 2024, fans of the music festival have speculated that Madonna, Cher, and Bruce Springsteen could all feature.
General tickets are sold out, but there is usually a resale in the spring.
July 6 - Somerset Armed Forces Day
Heading back to Taunton with this event, which supports the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community.
Held in Vivary Park, the event 'provides a much valued morale boost for the troops and their families.'
The event which fills the park with stalls, displays, and fun, is free to attend for all the family.
August 2-3 - Taunton Flower Show
Again in Vivary Park, Taunton, the annual flower show attracts thousands of visitors each year and welcomes exhibitors and traders from all over the South of England.
It also plays host to one of the most popular competition marquees amongst horticultural enthusiasts.
As part of a limited time offer, those hoping to attend next year's show can get up to 40% off their tickets until January 31, 2024.
August 24-26 - Live in Somerset
It really is a jam-packed summer lined up for the county, as August will host the popular Taunton music event once again.
Boy bands JLS and Busted will take to the stage in Vivary Park, as well as a set from Ministry of Sound Classical.
Tickets can be purchased from several online vendors, and updates are posted to the Live in Somerset Facebook page.
November 2 - Bridgwater Carnival
As the days begin to darken, there is no better way to kick the winter blues than visiting the magnificent Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival.
The annual event has a rich history of bringing spectacular entertainment to the town, and is a huge part of Somerset's heritage.
It's free to attend and completely mind blowing watching the illuminated carts and their dedicated club members parade through the streets of Bridgwater.
If you happen to miss it, the carnival also passes through the following locations:
- Bridgwater - Saturday 2nd November 2024 @ 18.00 hrs
- Burnham on Sea - Monday 4th November 2024 @ 19.30 hrs
- Weston Super Mare - Friday 8th November 2024 @ 19.00 hrs
- North Petherton - Saturday 9th November 2024 @ 19.00 hrs
- Midsomer Norton - Monday 11th November 2024 @ 19.30 hrs
- Shepton Mallet - Wednesday 13th November 2024 @ 19.30 hrs
- Wells - Friday 15th November 2024 @ 19.00 hrs
- Glastonbury - 16th November 2024 @ 18.45 hrs
December - Wells Christmas Market
There is no better place to cap off the end of the year than Wells, and the Christmas market will undoubtedly bring you a bit of festive cheer.
Although a date has not yet been announced, the market takes place on a Saturday in December each year.
Several stalls run by local businesses adorn the streets of the pretty market town, with opportunities for mulled wine, hot food, bespoke Christmas gifts, and plenty more.
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