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Late lingering days of summer herald a super September filled with food festivals, music, art, and culture in the county.  Here are our top picks of what’s happening in Hampshire this September.

Zero Waste Dinner at The Mutton

Thursday 5 September

In celebration of Zero Waste Week (2 – 6 September), The Mutton, a charming, family-run pub nestled in picturesque Hazeley Heath, is set to host a special Zero Waste Dinner on Thursday 5 September.

The specially curated five-course meal will champion sustainability, emphasising zero-waste principles, with a menu showcasing the finest local ingredients and innovative cooking techniques aimed at minimising food waste.

Heritage Open Days

Friday 6 September – Sunday 15 September

Every September Heritage Open Days enable a special chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences for free.

In Hampshire, participating places include: 878 AD in Winchester on 7 September, The Great Hall and Westgate Museum in Winchester on 7 September, Gilbert White’s House on 12 September, The Brickworks Museum on 11 and 12 September, Steamship Shieldhall on 14 September, and National Trust’s The Vyne on 14 September.

Borrowed Breath: Art exhibition at Winchester Cathedral

Friday 6 September – Tuesday 5 November

This Autumn, sixteen sculptures by Laurence Edwards from his leaf series will be on view at Winchester Cathedral.

The exhibition in the north transept presents a series of ethereal, cut-through, transmorphic figures by Laurence Edwards particularly inspired by the history of the Great West Window.

Mucky Weekender Music Festival

Thursday 5 September – Saturday 7 September

Top off the summer with the small but mighty Mucky Weekender, a boutique festival curated by Dub Pistols frontman Barry Ashworth, taking place at Vicarage Farm in Woodmancott near Winchester.

The festival will feature five music stages from Dub, Ska, Reggae, Jungle, to House, Disco, Funk, Breakbeat and everything in-between.  There will also be a mass afternoon tea for the 5,000 festivalgoers with a Mad Hatters Tea Party theme.

Last Night of the Proms at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens

Saturday 7 September

A classic end to a British summer, Sir Harold Hillier Gardens will hold its Last Night of the Proms classical concert on Saturday 7 September.

Bring your picnic, champagne, blankets and chairs to enjoy classical renditions of Last Night of the Proms favourites, including Land of Hope and Glory and Rule Britannia.

Alton FlavourFest

Sunday 8 September

Alton FlavourFest returns to The Public Gardens on Sunday 8 September, a free festival bringing a culinary feast to the town with over 60 fabulous food and drink stalls, an amazing array of street food, mouth-watering cookery demonstrations, a fiesta of family activities, and a delicious menu of live music on the bandstand.

Light the South Art Trail, Southampton

Until Sunday 8 September

80 arty lighthouses have been dotted around Southampton and Cowes this summer for the Light the South Art Trail to raise money for Southampton Hospitals Charity.

Catch this family-friendly public art trail until Sunday 8 September – a colourful and fun way to explore the city with each lighthouse featuring a unique design by local artists and children.

i20 England v Australia at Utilita Bowl

Wednesday 11 September

England and Australia will meet under lights at the home of cricket in Hampshire in what promises to be an exciting cricket face-off at Utilita Bowl on Wednesday 11 September. ​​​​

The Planetarium Experience at Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium

Friday 13 September

Join Winchester Science Centre for an evening flying through the stars of the solar system in their breathtaking Planetarium. This presenter-led live show is sure to fascinate and educate about the secrets of the skies above us.

Later in the month, you can catch a special Led Zeppelin Planetarium Experience and a 50 year celebration of Pink Floyd’s iconic album The Dark Side of the Moon on 21 September.

Southampton International Boat Show

Friday 13 September – Sunday 22 September

Britain's largest marine festival, Southampton International Boat Show, returns to Southampton from Friday 13 September to Sunday 22 September.

Showcasing everything from stand-up paddleboards to superyachts, the show is a great day out for the whole family with attractions including Europe's largest, temporary, purpose-build show marina with more than 350 boats on display; the Watersports Zone where visitors can try a massive range of activities from kayaking to diving; and the Shipyard with headline music sets from Chris Moyles and Symphonic Ibiza.

The Romsey Show

Saturday 14 September

One of the largest one-day country shows in the South, The Romsey Show takes place every September at the Broadlands Estate in Romsey.

Attractions include the Grand Parade of livestock, popular Countryside Area, equine classes, live music, the Family Dog Show, art and horticulture all washed down with a fine selection of local food and drink.

Murder Mystery Fine Dining Train on the Watercress Line

Saturday 14 September

Step aboard The Watercress Line this September for dinner with a twist. Dress up in your finest 1950s attire for a vintage Agatha Christie-inspired live action whodunnit.

The Watercress Line’s special Murder Mystery evenings commence on the platform where the company 'The Perfect Murder' will set the scene for the evening before you board your First Class carriage on The Watercress Belle for dinner and a night of mystery and murder.

South Downs Food Festival

Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 September

Dame Prue Leith will open the South Downs Food Festival at Stansted Park on Saturday 14 September and commence a weekend celebration of food and drink of the South Downs and coast. Highlights include cookery demonstrations, tastings, talks, live music, markets, and an outstanding selection of artisan food from the coast and downs.

International Autojumble at Beaulieu

Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 September

Grab yourself a bargain at the iconic International Autojumble at Beaulieu, renowned as the biggest outdoor sale of motoring items this side of the Atlantic with hundreds of stands in this huge weekend of buying and selling action.

Other Beaulieu events this September include Simply BMW on 22 September and classic car event Simply British at Beaulieu on 29 September.

Hampshire Countryside Day 2024

Sunday 15 September

Bereleigh Estate in East Meon will host the Hampshire Countryside Day on Sunday 15 September celebrating rural life with activities, competitions, demonstrations, and a wide range of shopping options.

Have a go at archery, race some ferrets, or try out the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance flight simulator for an immersive helicopter rescue experience.

Taste of Wickham Festival

Sunday 15 September

A free day of fun for everyone, the Taste of Wickham Festival returns this September, with great food producers, talks, demonstrations, all-ages entertainment and plenty more besides.

Learn from talented chefs and local artisans; try amazing food and drink; shop 'til you drop at over 80 artisan food, drink, gift and garden stalls; enjoy non-stop live performances across two stages; and let the little ones go wild in the new children's zone.

Winchester Comedy Festival: Autumn Gala 2024 at Theatre Royal Winchester

Friday 27 September

Have a laugh later this month with comedians Shazia Mirza, Sean McLoughlin, Andrew White and Tom Deacon at Winchester Comedy Festival’s Autumn Gala at the Theatre Royal Winchester.

Summer fun at Mottisfont National Trust

Until Sunday 29 September

Mottisfont's summer holiday exhibition and activity trail continue until Sunday 29 September, celebrating the world of John Burningham with over 60 original illustrations in a family-friendly, interactive exhibition and an energetic outdoor trail with games and activities to complete.

Search more events in Hampshire

Fancy a September getaway?  Take a look at our huge range of accommodation. Hampshire has something for all budgets including hotels, bed and breakfastsself-catering properties, and cosy traditional holiday cottages

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Related

Zero Waste Dinner at The Mutton
Food
Zero Waste Dinner at The Mutton

In celebration of Zero Waste Week (2nd - 6th September), The Mutton, a charming, family-run pub nestled in picturesque Hazeley Heath, is set to host a special Zero Waste Dinner on Thursday, 5th September. The Mutton's talented Head Chef, Rob Boer, has meticulously curated a five-course meal that champions sustainability to be served exclusively at the event. Emphasising zero-waste principles, the menu will showcase the finest local ingredients and innovative cooking techniques aimed at minimising food waste.

Borrowed Breath: Art exhibition at Winchester Cathedral
Exhibition
Borrowed Breath: Art exhibition at Winchester Cathedral - Steve Russell Studios

This Autumn, sixteen sculptures by Laurence Edwards from his leaf series will be on view, including new pieces which have been created especially in response of Winchester Cathedral.

Mucky Weekender Music Festival at Vicarage Farm Winchester
Festivals
Mucky Weekender Music Festival at Vicarage Farm Winchester

Following last year’s triumphant sold-out event and a marriage proposal (she said yes), the small but mighty 2-day music & arts festival Mucky Weekender extends to 3 days from Thursday 5th to Sunday 7th September back at its spiritual home the private parkland `Vicarage Farm’.  The festival’s 5th edition will feature 5 music stages from Dub, Ska, Reggae, Jungle, to House, Disco, Funk, Breakbeat and everything in-between.  To celebrate the new chapter of music, magic and mayhem join the hosts Barry Ashworth his band Dub Pistols and 5,000 festival-goers for afternoon tea and cake alongside Alice, Queen of Hearts, & the White Rabbit for this year’s theme Mad Hatters Tea Party – fancy dress is encouraged.

Last Night of the Proms at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens
Concert
Last Night of the Proms at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens

Bring your picnic, champagne, blankets and chairs to this open-air "Last Night of the Proms" classical concert ay Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. The renowned Southampton Concert Orchestra, conducted by Paul Ingram, will be performing popular classics and all the usual Last Night of the Proms favourites, including Land of Hope and Glory and Rule Britannia.

Alton FlavourFest
Food
Alton FlavourFest

Alton FlavourFest returns to The Public Gardens on Sunday 8 September, from 11am-4pm! It's free!

Light the South Art Trail, Southampton
Arts
Light the South Art Trail, Southampton

Come and join our Light the South art trail and discover 80 large and small lighthouses as they shine a light across Southampton and Cowes. Each lighthouse has been individually designed by artists and children and will raise money for Southampton Hospitals Charity. This is a public art trail, accessible to everyone.

England v Australia – Vitality IT20 at Utilita Bowl
Sporting Event
The Ageas Bowl

Sports fans across the South will be able to enjoy another instalment of the fierce rivalry between England Men and Australia after it was confirmed the two sides will face-off in an iT20 match at Utilita Bowl in 2024.

The Planetarium Experience at Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium
Show / Display
The Planetarium Experience at Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium

Zoom through the stars on an exciting flight through the solar system. Take a seat in the breath-taking Planetarium and discover the secrets of the skies above us during a presenter-led live show.

Led Zeppelin: The Planetarium Experience at Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium
Music
Led Zeppelin: The Planetarium Experience at Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium

Get set for an audio and visual experience like no other as the music of the iconic Led Zeppelin comes to life in the Planetarium! Are you ready to Rock n' Roll? Sit back and hold on tight as 12 of Led Zeppelin's legendary tunes play out against a backdrop of dynamic 360 degree Planetarium visuals. We've got a Whole Lotta Love for this show!

Pink Floyd: The Dark Side of the Moon 50 years at Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium
Music
Pink Floyd: The Dark Side of the Moon 50 years at Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium

Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the iconic The Dark Side of the Moon album. Watch as breath-taking Planetarium visuals bring to life the sounds of the legendary Pink Floyd.

Southampton International Boat Show 2024
Exhibition
Southampton International Boat Show

Back for its 55th edition, Southampton International Boat Show, Britain's largest marine festival, is returning to Mayflower Park, Southampton. The show will be open from Friday 13 to Sunday 22 September, and promises to have something for everyone to enjoy.

The Romsey Show
Show / Display
The Romsey Show

The Romsey Show takes place in September at Broadlands in Romsey. The Show is one of the largest one-day country shows in the South and is run by a large team of dedicated volunteers. The show provides a fantastic day out with something for all the family to enjoy!

Murder Mystery Fine Dining Train on the Watercress Line
Food
Murder Mystery Train and actors

The Watercress Line is delighted to announce the revival of its very popular Murder Mystery Trains. These special evenings will commence on the platform where the company 'The Perfect Murder' will set the scene for the evening before you board your First Class carriage on The Watercress Belle.

South Downs Food Festival
Festival
Logo for the South Downs Food Festival

Stansted Park explores the past and champions the future of local and national food culture.

International Autojumble at Beaulieu
Sale
International Autojumble at Beaulieu

At International Autojumble on 14th and 15th September, there will be hundreds of stands to browse for bargains as part of a huge weekend of buying and selling action.

Simply BMW at Beaulieu
Run / Rally
Simply BMW at Beaulieu

The return of Simply BMW to Beaulieu. All BMW owners are invited to drive into Beaulieu and park up within the museum parkland for what promises to be a superb day out for both BMW owners and enthusiasts.

Simply British at Beaulieu
Family
Simply British Classics at Beaulieu

Beaulieu is delighted to announce the return of Simply British. All British classic car owners are invited to drive into the Beaulieu parkland and park up for what promises to be a superb day out for both owners and enthusiasts.

Hampshire Countryside Day 2024
Countryside
Hampshire Countryside Day 2024

The much-anticipated Hampshire Countryside Day returns to Bereleigh Estate in East Meon GU32 1PH on Sunday, September 15, 2024. Sponsored by SHORTS plant hire and waste management, the event supports the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance. Visitors can enjoy a celebration of rural life with activities, competitions, demonstrations, and a wide range of shopping options.

Taste of Wickham Festival
Food
Flyer for the Taste of Wickham Festival

The free Taste of Wickham Festival returns this September, with great food producers, talks, demonstrations, all-ages entertainment and plenty more besides.

Winchester Comedy Festival: Autumn Gala 2024 at Theatre Royal Winchester
Comedy
Winchester Comedy Festival: Autumn Gala 2024 at Theatre Royal Winchester

Shazia Mirza, Sean McLoughlin, Andrew White and Tom Deacon (MC).

Summer fun at Mottisfont National Trust
Childrens Events
Children enjoy summer fun at Mottisfont

From 20 July to 29 September, Mottisfont's summer holiday exhibition and activity trail celebrates the world of John Burningham. Discover over 60 original illustrations in a family-friendly, interactive exhibition. Outside, there's an energetic trail with games and activities to complete.