Big Day Out | Britten Pears Arts

Saturday 13 June
Aldeburgh

It’s free, it’s fun and it’s family-friendly! This year the Big Day Out returns, bringing the Aldeburgh Festival back to where it all started; immersing the town in music, dance and activities, with surprises around every corner.

Enjoy live music across two stages that includes folk, brass, blues, country and more. Book your little ones into music and play sessions for the under 5s. Get your kids into dance, singing or percussion with our free workshops – or simply set your beach picnic to some samba. The choice is yours.

All activities are free but please be aware that some require booking online and capacity is limited.

The Big Day Out is kindly supported by The Chapman Charitable Trust.

With special thanks to the following Aldeburgh businesses for their support: Aldeburgh Beach Lookout, Aldeburgh Museum, Aldeburgh Town Council, Church Farm Holiday Park, Fishers Gin, Jubilee Hall, O&C Butcher, The Suffolk, The Lighthouse. 

Jubilee Hall

South Lookout Tower

12pm – 1.30pm: Big Beach Picnic & New Samba

Bring your picnic onto the beach and join us in pebble painting and the irresistible rhythms of New Samba.

Percussion instruments against a white background.

1pm – 1.45pm: Percussion Workshop (9 and under) – Book now

Explore percussion instruments in this lively workshop led by Owen Gunnell and members of the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. Free; booking essential

2pm – 3pm: Percussion Workshop and Performance (10 and over) – Book now

Join Owen Gunnell and members of the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire on the beach to create and perform new music. Free; booking essential

Moot Hall Green Stage

Community music groups from across Suffolk bringing warmth and togetherness to the heart of Aldeburgh.

2pm: Rabble Chorus

Enjoy a broad range of music from this popular community choir, from folk shanties to audience participation songs.

3pm: East Suffolk Community Folk Orchestra

Celebrate the joy of collective music-making with a lively blend of jigs, reels and gentle folk melodies.

4pm: Waveney Concert Band

Embark on a symphonic brass journey, from film themes to jazz-inspired favourites.

5pm: Pop Chorus

This local community choir bring feel-good pop songs from across the decades in glorious multi-part harmony.

Fishers Gin Stage

Fishers Gin Stage puts a spotlight on East Anglian musicians, showcasing sets covering Americana, vibrant country pop, folk and high-energy rock, for all ages to enjoy together.

1.30pm: Lisa Redford

Heartfelt acoustic music, blending country, folk and Americana with memorable melodies and stunning vocals.

2.30pm: Adam Clark Trio

Talents from Norfolk’s vibrant folk scene mix East Anglian and British Isles music with original material.

3.30pm: Vic Allen

Combining the energy of pop with the storytelling nature of country music, Vic transports listeners through meticulously crafted lyrics.

4.30pm: Keeper of Calves

A recognisable blend of folk tendencies and alternative-indie instrumentation, taking inspiration from Bon Iver to Hozier and The War On Drugs.

5.30pm: Black River Renegade

High-energy rock played with real heart, blending classic blues-rock grit with a modern edge.

Around the Town

12.30pm – 5pm: Walk of the Dandelion

Meet Daniel, a beautifully crafted giant puppet made from willow and repurposed materials. He’ll be walking around Aldeburgh town accompanied by Charly Jolly’s playful and gentle live music, handing out handmade dandelions carrying positive messages.

Head to Moot Hall Green where everyone is invited to make their own woollen dandelions and write uplifting messages to share. Your creations become part of Daniel’s journey as he passes them on to others, spreading hope, resilience, and delight.