Welcome Fair 2026 Guide
The Welcome Fair is the biggest event of the year—and it’s coming up soon!
If you're joining us on Friday 18 September, (and you definitely should!) here’s some places you should visit. Make sure to pass it on to your mates and student group so everyone’s ready for the day 🎪
Over 300 Student Groups 🏅
Across the site, you’ll find large white gazebos packed with stalls run by student groups. They’ll be there to share info about their group, how to join, what’s coming up, and how you can get involved.
Each stall will be staffed by committee members, so it’s a great chance to ask questions and find the groups that suit you best.
You’ll also find the Give It A Go Arena and Sports Demo Zone where you can chat with hundreds of student groups, ask questions, and take part in live sessions. It’s the perfect way to meet new people, try something different, and maybe even discover a new passion with Bristol SU ⭐
Finally, head over to the SEH stand where you can learn more about competitive sport at Bristol, gym memberships and competing.
New to Welcome Fair 2026👚
There’re loads to discover at this year’s Welcome Fair! Alongside meeting Student Groups and getting involved with the SU, you’ll find 100+ commercial stalls featuring big brands, much-loved Bristol businesses, charities, food and drink vendors and marketplace sellers. Deliveroo will be sampling dishes from three of its partner restaurants throughout the day, while Ramona’s will be serving up samples of their delicious houmous and chips! Enjoy freebies from returning Boux Avenue, Wingstop or Hungry Panda, discover Bristol’s bars and nightlife, explore travel opportunities and get useful advice on housing. There’s plenty to see, do and take home — so give yourself plenty of time to explore!
Old is Gold is your go-to for vintage finds, while Vivobarefoot will be joining us alongside Culla Collective, where you can find prints to brighten up your new uni room. Looking to add some colour to your space? Bristol Floral Design, an independent Bristol florist, will be creating bespoke bouquets. And if you’re after a fresh trim before the start of term, Unioncut will be on site offering haircuts!
City Support Services 👇
As well as support from the University, there are trusted, specialist services across Bristol you can access for free.
At this year’s Welcome Fair, you’ll find tents from:
- Yuno Sexual Health: Yuno Sexual Health provides free, confidential sexual health advice, information and support. Drop by to meet the team, find out more about the services available and get advice on looking after your sexual health.
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Bristol Safe Space: Bristol Safe Space provides a safe, welcoming place for anyone who feels vulnerable, unwell or unsafe in Bristol’s city centre. Come and meet the team to find out more about the support available and how to access it.
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BDP: We’ve teamed up with Bristol Drugs Project and Horizons to support safer choices around drugs and alcohol. Their student-focused service, The Drop, offers practical, non-judgmental advice and support. Swing by, pick up some freebies and learn more about our harm reduction approach to Drugs and Alcohol.
Find the Students' Union ⚡
Look out for SU staff around the Welcome Fair carrying our ‘Ask Me for Help’ flags. They’ll be there to answer your questions, point you in the right direction and help you find out more about what the Students’ Union has to offer.
You can also visit our stalls to find out more about:
SU Shop ⬇️
Did you know that Bristol SU Shop is your go-to spot for all your Bristol Uni merch?
Visit the shop and grab your university hoodie or fleece. Or maybe you would prefer a new water bottle or some branded stationary for lectures, because we have those too!
All our items are made to last, so you can remember your time at Bristol Uni for years to come. Come check it out at the Welcome Fair, or on the ground floor of the Richmond Building ⭐
The Food Vendors 🍔
Once you have stocked up on freebies, found your new Student Group and checked out the shops – grab some food from one of the Bristol-based food vendors on site!
This year, you can enjoy a range of tasty options, including burgers from Boigers, bao from You Bao, hummus from Hummusapiens and Japanese food from Mr Noodle. There’s something for everyone, so make sure you come hungry!
