Better Business / Member news
Jack in the Green returns with a celebration of indie shops
Spring has officially sprung, and with it comes one of Bristol’s most joyful and eccentric traditions – the Jack in the Green procession.
This year, the green-clad figure and his merry band will once again parade through the city, ushering in May with music, colour and a healthy dose of revelry.
The festivities begin on Saturday at 10:30am from the M-Shed, making their way through the city centre before reaching St Michael’s Hill at around 1pm. From there, the route continues via Kingstown Parade, climbing the length of Gloucester Road with Jack expected to arrive at Horfield Common around 4pm.
But the focus lies along Gloucester Road itself, where local shops and traders are turning the day into a street-long celebration. The independent spirit of the area is out in full force, with food, music, crafts and community on offer at nearly every turn.

Stylemongers of Bristol led by Zoë Hewett will also take part in the annual celebration, engaging with crowds through hands-on crafts and creative design activities – photo: Zoë Hewett
Member of Gloucester Road’s community Stylemongers of Bristol will also take part in bringing their crafts to large groups of the public.
Paper Plane, the much-loved card and gift shop, will be hosting origami paper plane making – fun for kids and adults alike. Just up the road, Café Dream is offering freshly made vegan falafel, perfect for a quick bite as you follow the procession.
Above Boston Tea Party, The Nev Club is pulling out all the stops to mark its 125th birthday with a full-blown Caribbean Party from 2pm to 11pm. Expect reggae rhythms, a lively crowd, and the tempting aroma of jerk BBQ in the air.
Catch The Moment is joining the fun with a special offer – a free art print from your own photos, a brilliant way to remember the day. Meanwhile, Dave Giles the Butchers will be grilling up a storm on their forecourt, serving BBQ treats to the hungry masses.
For something a little more laid-back, Osna Therapies will be offering taster sessions and live music, providing a soothing counterpoint to the energy on the street.
With Jack in the Green leading the way, and the shops and traders throwing open their doors to celebrate, it is expected to be a proper Bristol welcome to the warmer months ahead.
Main photo: Martin Booth
Stylemongers of Bristol are member of the Bristol24/7 Better Business network, an initiative to help businesses thrive while creating a positive impact on Bristol and the people who live here. As part of their membership, businesses can publish member news stories like this. For more information, visit my.bristol247.com/better-business
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