Sheffield is famous for Tramlines, an annual festival held in Hillsborough Park featuring the likes of Kasabian, The Kooks and Two Door Cinema Club. However, even before Tramlines was established in 2009, Sheffield has long been a hub for musicians and creatives. Bands like the Arctic Monkeys, Pulp and the Human League all hail from the Steel City and have played many of the city’s festivals. In this article, we’ll give you the rundown of the best festivals in Sheffield in 2024. You never know, you just might discover the next Alex Turner.
Tramlines
When: 26th – 28th July 2024
First up is the biggest festival in Sheffield, Tramlines. This festival held in Hillsborough Park every year at the end of July. This year it’s taking place from the 26th to 28th July promising more stellar headline acts. The lineup for 2024 already looks great, with Paolo Nutini, Jamie T and Snow Patrol headlining. Even the smaller stages at the festival have great acts. In 2022, these included Scouting for Girls, Lady Leshurr and the Lottery Winners. There’s also something for comedy lovers with acts like Russell Kane, Seann Walsh and Jason Manford having performed.
The festival is held just a tram ride away from the city centre and most student areas. Therefore, most decide to stay in their student accommodation and go out to bars and clubs in the city after the daytime events. Whilst some will say that not camping means a less ‘authentic’ festival experience, you can’t deny the luxury of not spending an arm and a leg on food and drinks. Plus, you get a full festival experience while being cosy and clean.
Overall, Tramlines is the best festival in Sheffield for students in 2024, as you don’t have to sacrifice your hygiene for a great festival.
Bassfest
When: 20th – 21st July 2024
Held in Don Valley Bowl, Bassfest is also just a short tram journey from the city centre. Although the 2024 lineup hasn’t been announced yet, if it’s anything like their past events, you won’t want to miss it. In 2022, the festival hosted greats like Chase and Status, Tion Wayne, Hybrid Minds and Andy C. The summer edition is a two-day festival has over 100 acts and 10 arenas. What’s more, they also host a NYE edition so you can get your bass fix all year round.
Get Together
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When: 18th May 2024
This is a fairly new festival held at the University of Sheffield, boasting a range of local and international artists. You can even vote for a local artist to play the festival. 2024 marks the 4th edition, taking place Saturday 18th May and kickstarting at 12pm. So far, the lineup includes lots of up and coming artists including CMAT as headliners, along with Super Furry Animals’ Gruff Rhys, The Bug Club, Porij, Liz Lawrence, Miso Extra, Picture Parlour, Maruja, Sailor Honeymoon. Just down the road for first-year accommodation and popular student areas, this 2024 festival not to be missed by Sheffield students.
Sheffield Chamber Music Festival 2024
When: 17th – 25th May 2024
2024 marks a milestone for Music in the Round as it celebrates its 40th anniversary. The highlight of this landmark year is the Sheffield Chamber Music Festival, promising an extraordinary nine-day extravaganza of concerts at the Crucible Playhouse from 17th to 25th May 2024.
This year’s 40th-anniversary festival is especially noteworthy, with the globally acclaimed cellist Steven Isserlis guest curating. He will be performing alongside Ensemble 360 and distinguished guests such as Roderick Williams and Mishka Rushdie Momen, promising an enchanting series of concerts at the magical Crucible Playhouse.
This year’s Chamber Music Festival, held in the Crucible, churches and the Site Gallery amongst other venues launches on 17th May 2024. It offers a range of events from art and music events, singalong events, ensembles and events for kids. Check out the full range of event.
Festival of the Outdoors
When: March 2024
Sheffield festivals in 2024 aren’t only about music. The Festival of the Outdoors celebrates active lifestyles in Sheffield, with lots of events and things to do and mini festivals within it. You watch climbers as part of the The Rab Climbing Works International Festival (CWIF), or get involved in photo walks, or watch nature films at the Sheffield Adventure Film Festival (ShAFF) at Sheffield cathedral. This celebration showcases a diverse array of events, ranging from grand international sports competitions to intimate community meet-ups. Whether you’re interested in joining a photo walk, tackling some of the world’s most challenging bouldering routes, browsing outdoor markets, or immersing yourself in film festivals, there’s something for everyone.
Indie Beer Feast 2024
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When: 1st -2nd March 2024
Sheffield Beer Week begins with a flourish at the Indie Beer Feast, a two-day celebration of independent craft beer held at Trafalgar Warehouse in the heart of Sheffield City Centre. This festival is a tribute to outstanding independent craft beers from both the UK and across the globe. Attendees can look forward to an array of exceptional brewery bars, complemented by a selection of fine ciders, street food, natural wines, and an atmosphere brimming with excitement. The intimate setting of this boutique festival creates the perfect environment for engaging conversations with the breweries and drinks producers present.
For more inspiration on what to do in Sheffield, visit our dedicated city page here.
