ABOUT 5,000 people are expected to pack the town when the much-loved Minehead Bay Festival returns for a fifth year on Saturday, August 29, offering a day-long celebration of music, art, and culture, plus family fun.

Running from 12 pm to 6 pm, the free festival will bring together two live music stages, live street art, circus performances, storytelling, street food and bars, and more, all set against the backdrop of Minehead sea front and beach.

Performing on the main stage this year are Dakka Skanks, Alcohol Licks, Nothing Concrete, Nick Parker, Sebastian Tesouro, and St Fian, offering a mix of live music throughout the day.

Beyond the main stage, the festival will be alive with the rhythms of Minehead Samba, sea shanty performances, and circus acts, plus arts and wellbeing tents and a nature area.

Zara Aitken, event manager and charity operations manager of festival organiser Minehead and Coast Development Trust, said: “This is our fifth year and it is amazing to see how it has grown into such a firm favourite in the Somerset calendar.

“From the very first festival to this year's line-up, our goal has always been to bring people together, celebrate our incredible coastline, and give everybody a completely free day out.

“None of it would be possible without the support of local performers, volunteers, and businesses.

“We are excited to celebrate this milestone with the whole community.

“A big thank you goes to this year's festival sponsors, Minehead Town Council and Hollam solicitors, for their generous support.

“The festival has also been made possible thanks to funding from the National Lottery Community Fund.

“Minehead Bay Festival is set to be a brilliant day out on the sea front.

“Bring the family, bring your friends, and come and be part of the celebrations.”