The much-loved Gloucester Shanty Festival will return in 2027 as part of a spectacular programme of events celebrating the 200th anniversary of the completion of Gloucester Docks and the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal.
Taking place as part of a season of celebrations running from April to September, the festival will once again fill Gloucester’s historic waterfront with the powerful sounds of traditional sea shanties and maritime music, welcoming performers and visitors from across the UK to one of Britain’s most historic inland ports.
The return of the festival forms part of a city-wide programme that will celebrate Gloucester’s unique maritime heritage, its communities and the lasting impact the Docks and Canal have had on the city’s identity over the past two centuries.
The Gloucester Shanty Festival has become one of the city’s most distinctive cultural events, bringing together accomplished shanty crews, local musicians and thousands of visitors for a weekend of music, storytelling and community spirit. In 2027, the festival will play an important role in commemorating the bicentenary while celebrating the traditions that continue to thrive today.
Emily Gibbon, Manager of Gloucester BID, said:
“After a few years being off the calendar of events, the Gloucester Shanty Festival will be back for 2027, celebrating the unique character and heritage of our city. Bringing it back as part of the 200th anniversary of Gloucester Docks and the Canal feels incredibly fitting. This milestone gives us the opportunity to celebrate not only our remarkable maritime history but also the people, businesses and communities that continue to make the city such a special place. We look forward to welcoming performers and visitors from near and far to be part of this unforgettable celebration.”
The 2027 bicentenary programme will feature a diverse calendar of events celebrating Gloucester’s maritime, industrial and cultural heritage, delivered in partnership with organisations from across the city. Alongside the Shanty Festival, the programme will include heritage activities, exhibitions, performances, community projects and opportunities for residents and visitors alike to discover the stories that have shaped Gloucester for 200 years.
The dates for your diary – 15th & 16th May – further details about the Gloucester Shanty Festival and the wider bicentenary celebrations will be announced over the coming months. Anyone interested in becoming involved, supporting the celebrations and sponsoring the weekend, please get in touch.
