The doors to Bristol’s Christmas Spiegeltent will open on November 28, for its 13th year, which promises a “whirlwind of glitter, glamour and spine-tingly artistry”. The line-up includes a vast array of entertainment – from family-friendly cabaret and discos, film screenings with a live circus, candlelit orchestra evenings, and some of Bristol’s biggest DJs, producers and promoters celebrating the season in style.
The Spiegeltent is described as being “made of wood with intricately carved panels, stained glass windows and bevelled mirrors, these hand hewn pavilions have been used as travelling dance halls bars and bohemian entertainment salons since the early 20th Century.
“Draped in decadence, the Spiegeltent is the perfect mix of finery, frippery, nonsense and nostalgia. Finished with a dash of style and plenty of seduction. Christmas in Bristol wouldn’t be the same without it.”
Its founder, Steve Meadows, says: ““We have such a vibrant music scene in Bristol and we’re buzzing to be able to showcase and celebrate it in such splendour and style. As soon as you step into the Spiegeltent, you’ll be transported to another world – one that is sumptuous, mesmerising and magical. I can’t wait to draw back the curtain for the shows and parties to start!”
Tickets are on sale now, with some events already selling fast.
What is the Spiegeltent?
Translating to ‘mirror tent’ Spiegeltents were created in the Flemish region of Belgium in the late 19th Century. The round structure is made of dark wood with intricately carved panels, stained glass windows, bevelled mirrors and an impressive draped ceiling.
Despite the use of the word ‘tent’, inside it is nice and warm, even boasting underfloor heating. There are also indoor modern toilets.
Where is the Spiegeltent in Bristol this year? And is there parking close by?
Bristol’s Spiegeltent will be located on Waterfront Square, just off Canons Way, on the Harbourside (BS1 5LL). Parking can be found at Millennium Square Car Park, just a minute’s walk from the Spiegeltent itself – it’s open 24/7 and is located at BS1 5EP.
What’s on the programme this year?
Thursday, November 28 – Dark Side of the Moon, performed by Bristol Ensemble
The city’s only professional chamber orchestra, the Bristol Ensemble, will perform Pink Floyd’s album The Dark Side of the Moon. As the fourth best-selling album in history, with over 45 million copies sold worldwide, The Dark Side of the Moon remains one of the most influential albums ever created.
The 23-piece orchestra will “highlight its intricate musicality in a way that only a live orchestral performance can. Fusing the spirit of the 70s with the elegance of orchestral music, this isn’t to be missed.”
Friday, November 29 – Club Spiegel Shindig Festival ft. Slamboree
Kicking off with a night from the team behind the ‘funkiest festival in the South West’, it’s the Shindig Winter Gathering. After last year’s sold-out success, they’re returning with a stellar line up.
Slamboree, described as “Basement Jaxx meets Rocky Horror Show” will headline, performing new tracks from their highly-anticipated album. This electrifying performance will be their first live show in Bristol for six years.
What’s more, expect late-night sets from the wobbly-wonky bassline lover WBBL, Madame Electrifie, plus warm-up vibes from taste-makers such as Kaptin Barrett, DJ Emma and The Sly Players. The dress up theme is ‘dress to express’.
Saturday, November 30 – B10 Celebrating 10 Years of Bristol 24/7
Showcasing an all-Bristol line up while supporting independent journalism, B:10 will see Bristol Royalty, Roni Size, headline. Sam Binga, Addison Groove, NGAIO (live) Booty Bass Takeover and APH are also on the line-up.
Sunday, December 1 – Gala Screening of ‘To Catch a Thief’ with a live circus performance
Cary Grant and Grace Kelly ‘dazzle’ in Hitchcock’s classic romantic comedy thriller set on the glamorous French Riviera. It’s presented in association with this year’s Cary Comes Home festival.
This spectacular screening is the festival’s finale and will celebrate the golden age of cinema with bubbly, swing music and swathes of style. What’s more, the evening will include a live cabaret performance, celebrating Grant’s early career as an acrobat and vaudeville performer.
Cary Grant, from Horfield, enjoyed a six decade-spanning career as a Hollywood film star and style icon that earned him numerous accolades. These included an Honorary Oscar, the title of world’s best dressed man and a place on a US postage stamp.
Sunday, December 8 – The Puppini Sisters 20th anniversary
Celebrating 20 years, the much-loved Puppini Sisters promises to be a dazzling night of music, glamour, and show-stopping entertainment. Founded in 2004 by Marcella Puppini, the band pioneered the neo-burlesque/swing scene with their “immaculate close harmonies and vintage flair”.
Their debut album became the fastest-selling jazz album of all time, propelling them to worldwide success and winning fans such as Michael Bublé and HM King Charles. Now with six albums under their belt, this isn’t to be missed.
Tuesday, December 10 – 5×15 Bristol: Wayne Hemingway in conversation with Karen Arthur
The final 5×15 of the year will see Wayne Hemingway, one of the UK’s most renowned designers, who will appear live in conversation with inspirational broadcaster, artist and campaigner, Karen Arthur. These two style gurus will take the stage, to cover Hemingway’s four decades as a pioneer in the realms of creativity and social change.
Expect a deep and lively conversation that will delve into their shared passions – Wayne and Karen are both fervent advocates of sustainable fashion, reinvention and regeneration, as well as the powerful, positive impact that creativity and self-expression can have on society. To round off the night, stick around to browse the bookstall, enjoy a drink and continue the conversation in the enchanting surroundings of the Spiegeltent.
Sunday, December 15 – Bridgerton in Concert by Candlelight
Prepare to be transported back to the Bridgerton’s search for love amid London’s high society with The Bristol Ensemble. The evening will include classic pieces from the likes of Mozart and Handel, as well as pop hits from Billy Eilish, Beyonce and Alicia Keys in the candle-lit concert. Suitable for all ages.
Wednesday, December 18 – The Spiegeltent Christmas Ball (Burlesque, circus and drag)
Described as “an alternative collective hellbent on showcasing and celebrating all forms of drag”, cultivating an inclusive queer community space since April 2019, these “ghouls and girls” deliver a trademark cocktail of drag cabaret and perfect pop bangers.
Saturday, December 21 – The Allergies Funky Festive Throwdown
After last year’s sold out extravaganza, The Allergies are back for a full live show with Andy Cooper, James Morton and Marietta Smith, fresh from a huge UK tour promoting their latest album, Freak the Speaker.
Some ‘funky festive friends’ will join them straight from the heart of Havana with a unique blend of funk, soul, comedy and breakdancing – it’s the one and only Cuban Brothers. Known for their infectious charisma and wildly entertaining shows, they’ve taken stages worldwide by storm. Prepare to laugh, dance and be thoroughly entertained.
Plus the ‘funkiest man on two turntables’, DJ Format, will join them. His high-octane sets of soul, funk, Latin, and feel-good hip hop, have rocked spots the world over. Bristol reggae royalty, Queen Bee will be spoiling the crowd with her ever-flowing record collection.
Finally, to top off the jam packed night, the ‘safest hands in dance music’, Felix Joy.
Events on the programme for the family
Saturday, November 30 and Sunday, December 15 – Junior Jungle
Bristol’s family-favourite ravers are back and ready to ‘blow everyone’s socks off’. Amped up and ready to discharge powerful vibes through the dancefloor, Nick Terrific and MC Rocky Patch will be unleashing their profound and profane take on life. It’s set to be the perfect party for both little and big junglists.
Saturday December 7 and Sunday, December 8 – Kid Carpet Extra Super Rockin’ Rock Show
In this fun-filled 45-minute show, expect some high energy ping pong action, an epic adventure to find a witch lost in space and an opportunity to take part in a thrilling dance contest with Kid Carpet himself.
Perfect for families and children of all ages. Come ready to sing, dance, and play along in what promises to be a hilarious experience. All anyone needs to know to become a rock star.
Sunday, December 7 & 15 – Baby Disko
Mini movers, it’s time to shine. These afternoons are packed with music, making and all kinds of malarkey to get everyone giggling and grooving. There will be face painting, bubble blowing, dressing up and plenty of fun and games with the Let’s Make Art team, not forgetting a 30-minute kids show. Recommended for ages 0-5 but everyone is welcome.
December 7, 14 & 21 – Rumdoo! Family Cabaret
Perfect for the young and the young-at-heart to gather their mums, dads, grandparents, uncles, and aunts to dive into a dazzling 55-minute spectacle – featuring world-class international artists from every corner of the globe. Expect contemporary circus acts including fire eating, comedy, afro fusion dancing, aerial performances plus a world-class Chinese pole act. Recommended ages 3+