When the TriFest postbox topper appears at the Triangle, you know it's nearly time for Bitterne Park’s summer festival in the park!

 

This year’s TriFest takes place in Riverside Park, next to Cobden Bridge, from 12-7pm on Saturday, July 19 - and promises a full afternoon of live music, stalls, food, drink, games and community fun.

Music this year is being curated by Benana Music Studio, in a new partnership with the festival.

Organisers say the result will be an “eclectic array of music” with “something for everyone”.

Among the acts taking to the stage will be Southampton Ukulele Jam, with their lively mix of pop covers and community spirit; Silvermon, whose songwriting blends politics, humour and social conscience; and O C Thomas & States of Exotica, offering dreamy, reverberant indie sounds.

The line-up also includes Angling for Farthings, who perform traditional songs from 19th-century Hampshire on harmonium, ukulele and guitar.

 Crowds at TriFest 2024

There’s also a dog show, run by Second Chance Animal Rescue, with judging from 1.30-4pm. It’s promoted as a fun, informal event with no pre-registration – just turn up and enter on the day (£2 per class). Categories include Most Handsome Dog, Best Oldie, Dog Most Like Their Owner, and more.

 Prize-winning fox terrier in 2024

As always, there’s a huge range of stalls to explore - from local crafters and traders to organisations such as Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, Southampton Beekeepers, Bitterne Shed Club, Gantry Youth Theatre, and many more.

Local food will be served up by festival favourites including Curry Lounge and Soca Shack, and drinks are provided by The Butcher’s Hook, who’ll once again be running the beer tent.

 Soca Shack at last summer's festival

All that’s needed now is a picnic blanket, some sunshine - and maybe your dog.

• See the full line up of musical acts and stalls, and find out more about TriFest on the festival website.

bitternepark.info is a TriFest supporter