Southampton’s got plans. Want in?

Half term might be winding down, but the fun definitely isn’t. The last weekend brings a few easy wins for getting out and about — and June is waiting in the wings with festivals, big days out and the kind of events that make summer feel like summer.

Consider this your sneak peek at what’s next.

Five events for your diary

Let’s Rock Festival
St Mary’s Stadium | 6 June
After a two-year break, Let’s Rock Southampton returns next month with an unmissable day of retro anthems and a buzzing, family-friendly atmosphere. Acts include Sister Sledge, Heaven 17, T-Pau and many more. Learn more here.

Summer Sessions
Guildhall Square | 12 – 27 June
Summer Sessions returns to Guildhall Square with an eclectic line up of 10 concerts, including: Bowling for Soup, The Beach Boys, Deacon Blue, Pete Tong Ibiza Classics, Paul Weller, Billy Ocean and more. Get the full line up here.

ICC Women’s T20 World Cup
Utilita Bowl | 13, 16, 19 & 20 June
Utilita Bowl will play host to six matches for the popular ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup this year for an action packed summer of head-to-head matches. Will you ‘Catch the spirit’? For a full list of Southampton fixtures and to book your tickets click here.

Turner Sims Summer Family Day
Turner Sims | 14 June
A day of music-filled activities and events at Turner Sims, with something to inspire visitors of all ages. Enjoy drop in craft workshops, face painting, music making and live performances.

Bedford Place Summer Festival
Bedford Place | 28 June | FREE
Enjoy a free day out in Bedford Place with live music, performances and plenty to explore throughout the area from 11am – 8pm. Expect market stalls from local traders, street food, independent businesses opening their doors and entertainment running across the day, creating a lively atmosphere from late morning into the evening. Learn more here.

More Events Coming up

Treat dad this Father’s Day

Father’s Day may still be a few weeks away, but it’s never too early to start plotting something a little more memorable than the usual routine. Our new blog gathers together a mix of ideas for celebrating the dads, grandads and brilliant male role models in your life — from standout meals and relaxed days out to experiences that guarantee a good story afterwards.

Father’s Day falls on Sunday 21 June, so there’s plenty of time to plan something thoughtful, fun and very Southampton

Take a look and start shaping the day

All the World Cup action without a plane ticket. The countdown is officially on. The FIFA World Cup 2026 is heading across the Atlantic to Canada, Mexico and the USA, but you don’t need a plane ticket to soak up the atmosphere. Southampton’s pubs, bars and restaurants are already gearing up for a big summer of sport.

With matches running from 11 June to 19 July 2026, there’s plenty to look forward to, including England’s First Stage clash with Croatia on Wednesday 17 June. Whether you’re after a lively crowd, a cosy corner or somewhere you can settle in for the full tournament, the city has you covered.

Where to Watch the World Cup

Your pre cruise base, sorted

Southampton knows a thing or two about welcoming cruise passengers. If you’re planning to stay the night before you set off, the city has plenty of places that make the start of your trip feel like part of the holiday.
Our new guide rounds up the best hotels within easy reach of the cruise terminals, from waterfront stays with views worth lingering over to comfortable, convenient spots perfect for early departures. Whether you’re travelling solo, with family, or meeting up with fellow cruisers, it’s a handy way to find the right base before you board.

Hotels near cruise terminals