The Riverfront is a hub for various festivals and events held year-round, both within its venue and throughout Newport. Notable annual events include the International Women’s Day celebrations in March, Big Splash in July, and Art on the Hill in November. Additionally, The Riverfront has been a venue for the WOW Film Festival, Black History Month, and Newport Rising.

Big Splash
Big Splash is Newport’s much-loved arts and street theatre festival which takes place annually in July just before the school summer holiday. The festival takes place at both The Riverfront which is transformed into family hub Splashtonbury, and also transforms the city streets into a huge outdoor stage.

The Windrush Caribbean Film Festival
Windrush Caribbean Film festival explores the complex relationship between the big screen and the Windrush migrants from the Commonwealth, screening films from 75 years of Black British Cinema.

International Women's Day
Celebrate International Women’s Day at The Riverfront!
Each March we celebrate International Women’s day at The Riverfront with some fantastic free performances and taster sessions all with a female focus.

Art on the Hill
Art on the Hill Newport is a weekend of art and creativity on the west side of Newport featuring open houses, events and exhibitions. Over the weekend The Riverfront is transformed into a vibrant craft market selling wonderful makes from a range of local artists.

Lunar New Year
Get ready for a journey into the heart of the Lunar New Year – join us for a day filled with performances, workshops and activities celebrating the Year of the Snake.

More Than Dragons and Daffs
A special community event to mark St David’s Day.
‘More Than Dragons and Daffs’ will be a celebration of Wales, Welsh culture, and being Welsh in Newport, and showcase that Wales is more than just daffodils and dragons.
The free event, from 11am-5pm on Saturday 1 March will feature a range of musical performances and workshops.
Get Involved
If you're interested in getting involved in one of our festivals or events as a volunteer or performer, take a look at our Community Arts section.
Find out more