Set Sail For Gloucester Goes Retro

Expect giant seagulls, sand sculpting, and striped deckchairs as the UK’s premier vintage festival returns with a seaside theme.

Taking place on Saturday, August 23, the event transforms Gloucester city centre into a vibrant celebration of days gone by.

Now in its tenth year, the festival that brings thousands to the city will see visitors invited to Kings Square where they can pull up a deck chair to enjoy the free entertainment.

There’ll be street performers dressed as giant seagulls, freewheeling pedalos and classic seaside amusements like face-in-the-hole photo boards.

Organised and funded by Gloucester City Council in partnership with the Gloucester Business Improvement District, the festival is a standout event on the city’s annual calendar.

Across Gloucester’s Gate Streets, hundreds of vintage vehicles will be on display — from early 1900s models to cars from the 2000s.

Or visitors can head to Gloucester Docks for more fantastic cars, tasty food and live music on the Mariners Square Stage.

And at the Military Village, next to the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum, this year there'll be a World War II Buick Hellcat tank — a must-see for history and military enthusiasts.

Councillor Caroline Courtney, Cabinet member for Culture and Leisure at Gloucester City Council, said: “Gloucester Goes Retro is where residents and visitors come together to celebrate the city. It’s a fantastic atmosphere and really shows what a unique and vibrant place we are. Everyone is here to enjoy themselves and it’s also a great chance to support local businesses and enjoy all that Gloucester has to offer.”

The event starts at 10am and is free to attend.

More information at www.gloucestergoesretro.uk and follow the Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/gloucestergoesretro.