A month-long programme of free, family-friendly fun is set to bring a splash of summer to Stoke-on-Trent city centre this August.
‘Smithfield Summer’ officially launches this Saturday, 2 August, offering a packed schedule of weekly events and activities, all free to enjoy. Highlights include live music, kite flying and a big end-of-summer BBQ.
A standout feature of the event is the return of the Urban Beach, freshly reinstated in the public square at Smithfield in Hanley’s Cultural Quarter. Open daily throughout August, weather permitting, the beach will be staffed and fully accessible, offering families a sunny escape in the heart of the city.
Local artist Kidda Kinsey has created a custom design for the beach fencing, adding a splash of creativity to the space. A number of community organisations and Smithfield supporters have also chipped in to help bring the event to life.
Adele Simmons, Community Manager at Smithfield, said: “We have a great space at Smithfield and we wanted to create something for local families to enjoy during the school holidays, which is why we are delighted to announce Smithfield Summer.
“We cannot wait to have our urban beach open where there will be lots of free activities taking place throughout August. We would also like to say a huge thank you to those who have supported us with this, as this has enabled for us to provide even more activities and entry free of charge for the whole month.”
Support for the programme has come from a wide range of local partners, including Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, Stoke-on-Trent City Centre BID, Victoria Hall ATG, Martin & Co estate agents, and Smithfield tenants like Barclays and Purple Digital.
Chris Plant, Deputy Chief Executive of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, said: “We’re proud to support Smithfield Summer which is bringing such a vibrant programme of free, family fun to the heart of the city.
“Events like this not only create lasting memories but also boost our local economy by drawing people into the city centre.
“It’s a fantastic example of community, culture and commerce coming together to make Stoke-on-Trent an even more exciting place to live, work and visit.”
Later in the month, the Creative People and Places programme Appetite will bring its popular Big Feast to Smithfield across two days – Friday 22 and Saturday 23 August – featuring the groundbreaking VOLO virtual reality installation, among other performances.
The Urban Beach will be open daily from 10am to 4pm, with all events free to attend (weather permitting).
What’s On at Smithfield Summer:
Saturday 2 August – Smithfield Summer launch with local artist Ash Wall performing, courtesy of Victoria Hall
Saturday 9 August – Children’s activities
Saturday 16 August – Kite Flying
Friday 22 & Saturday 23 August – Big Feast and VOLO with Appetite
Saturday 30 August – Big Summer BBQ
For more information and updates, visit the Smithfield Stoke-on-Trent website.
