Discover 2025's Best Events in Shrewsbury + Plan Your Year

Hello Shrewsbury! We’re kicking off 2025 with plenty of exciting events to enjoy across our beautiful town.

This week’s Shrewsbury Scoop has everything you need to make the most of your time in Shrewsbury this year.

This week’s edition includes:

🎉 Long-Term Events: Plan ahead with our guide to some of the biggest events happening throughout 2025.
🎶 This Week in Shrewsbury: From live music and concerts to crafting and more, we’ve rounded up the best of what’s happening this week.
🏑 Sports Digest: Stay up to date with Shrewsbury Town FC and all the hockey fixtures this week.
📸 Photo of the Week: Enjoy a stunning shot of the aurora lighting up the sky in Shrewsbury.
🛍️ Local Business Spotlight: Discover a new shop in The Parade – your go-to spot for unique finds.

Let’s dive into 2025’s exciting events.

Disclaimer: Please note that events listed in this newsletter are subject to change. While we make every effort to provide accurate details, we cannot be held liable for any alterations to dates, times, locations, pricing, or content after the email is sent. We recommend checking directly with the event venue for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, we are not responsible for any external links included in this newsletter. Always verify event details with the official event organizer.

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN 2025 🎉

Festivals & Conventions 🎪🎉

Discover a vibrant mix of festivals and conventions throughout 2025, offering entertainment, culture, and unique experiences for all ages.

• Darwin Festival (February): A month-long celebration of the life of Darwin with workshops, activities and exhibitions. More details here.

• Loopfest (2nd - 4th May): A three-day, multi-venue music festival in Shrewsbury, featuring exciting performances across various locations, such as Shrewsbury Castle, Morris Hall, The Hive and more. More details here.

• Shropshire Show (24th May): A family-friendly agricultural show featuring livestock, tractors, live music, shopping stalls, and plenty of entertainment throughout the day. More details here.

• Belle Vue Arts Festival (7th - 23rd June): A celebration of local artists featuring exhibitions, workshops, and performances across various art forms in and around Belle Vue, Shrewsbury. More details here.

• Shrewsbury Food Festival (28th - 29th June): A two-day celebration of local food and drink, featuring independent producers, live music, chef demos, family activities, and over 200 stalls. More details here.

• Let's Rock Shrewsbury (12th July): A family-friendly festival celebrating the best of the 80s with performances from Holly Johnson, Tony Hadley, and Matt Goss. More details here.

• Shrewsbury Comic Con (19th July): A free and exciting comic con experience at The Darwin Shopping Centre and St Mary’s Church, featuring MEGASTORE Collectibles and plenty of fandom fun.

• Shrewsbury Dragon Boat Festival (19th - 20th July): Watch thrilling dragon boat races on the River Severn, with teams competing in 40ft boats for charity, along with plenty of entertainment. More details here.

• Shrewsbury Flower Show (8th - 9th August): A premier event showcasing floral displays, expert talks, competitions, and a grand fireworks finale. More details here.

• Shrewsbury Folk Festival (22nd - 25th August): A vibrant festival of folk, world music, and Americana, featuring live music, dance, workshops, and family-friendly activities set in a beautiful riverside location. More details here.

• Shrewsbury Steam Rally (24th - 25th August): A two-day celebration of vintage and steam-powered vehicles, with over 1,200 exhibits in action and on display at Onslow Park. More details here.

• Shrewsbury Oktoberfest (3rd & 4th October): Celebrate Shropshire’s biggest party with local ales, ciders, gins, live music, and street food, plus fun activities like karaoke and a silent disco. More details here.

Live Music & Theatre 🎤🎭

Experience unforgettable nights of live music, theatre, and comedy performances by renowned artists and up-and-coming talent at venues across Shrewsbury.

• Jonathan Veira Concert (25th January): Join world-renowned musician Jonathan Veira for an inspiring and memorable performance, featuring a variety of beautiful songs and captivating stories. More details here.

• Alan Davies and Support (28th January): Enjoy a rare headline appearance from Alan Davies, beloved for QI, Jonathan Creek, and Taskmaster, as he delivers deeply personal and hilarious observational comedy. Book here.

• The Best of Hans Zimmer (30th May): A spectacular tribute to the iconic music of Hans Zimmer and other legendary film scores, performed by a live chamber orchestra with a stunning light show. More details here.

• Josh Widdicombe (3rd June): Join the hilarious Josh Widdicombe for a night of comedy, known for his appearances on The Last Leg, Mock the Week, and his BBC Three sitcom Josh. Book here.

• Proms in the Park (14th June): Enjoy a magical evening of classical music under the stars at Attingham Park, featuring the UK Proms Orchestra and special guests, culminating in the iconic Last Night of the Proms finale. More details here.

• Outdoor Old School Hip Hop Rooftop Party (28th June): A rooftop party with summer vibes, 90s & 00s hip hop, big sing-alongs, a cocktail bar, and DJs spinning all your favourite classics. More details here.

Sports & Running 🏃‍♀️🏅

From thrilling races to action-packed sporting events, 2025 brings plenty of opportunities to either compete or cheer for your favourite athletes.

• Super Bowl Night at Cromwell’s (9th February): Watch the Super Bowl live from 10pm (11:30 KO) at Cromwells Tap House for a thrilling night of American football action.

• Whitchurch 10K (6th April): A scenic 10K road race through the historic Market Town of Whitchurch, featuring flat terrain with a few short hills. More details here.

• Shropshire Mud Run (26th April): Get ready for a thrilling obstacle course featuring river crossings, water slides, and muddy tunnels, with both 5K and 10K options to choose from. More details here.

• Wace Morgan Shrewsbury 10K (6th July): Run through the stunning Shrewsbury town centre, crossing rivers and passing historic landmarks in this popular 10K race, with support from family, friends, and spectators along the way. More details here.

• Coracle World Championships (12th September): Watch or join the quirky, fun-filled relay race as teams paddle tiny round boats across the River Severn to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. More details here.

• Shrewsbury Half Marathon (28th September): Run through the scenic streets of Shrewsbury, passing landmarks such as the Welsh & English Bridge, The Quarry, and the medieval town centre. More details here.

Looking to head into Shrewsbury to catch some of the biggest sporting events in 2025?

Here’s a list of some thrilling matches and games to watch at local pubs and venues:

• Men and Women’s Six Nations: 31 January-15 March, 22 March-26 April

• Cheltenham Festival: 11-14 March

• Formula One World Championship: 14 March-7 December

• Champions Cup final: 24 May

• Royal Ascot: 17-21 June

• Wimbledon: 30 June-13 July

• Women’s Euro 2025: 2-27 July

• Ryder Cup: 26-28 September

Markets & Local Fetes 🛍️🎪

Support local talent and small businesses at a variety of markets and business showcases throughout the year, celebrating Shropshire’s creativity and community spirit.

• Made in Shropshire Markets (8th February): A monthly market celebrating the best of local artisan products from food to crafts, bringing Shropshire’s creativity to the heart of the town.

• Oswestry Antique & Collectors Fair (22nd - 23rd February): With more dates to follow later in the year. More details here.

• Mayoral Fete (5th May): A community event being held as an alternative to the Mayoral Ball this year.

Walking & Nature 🌳🚶‍♀️

Explore the stunning landscapes of Shropshire with a range of outdoor activities, from nature walks to exciting challenges that connect you with the great outdoors.

• Snowdrop Walks (February): Enjoy stunning snowdrop displays at Lingen Davies’ charity walk, Attingham Park, Cound Village, and other local sites.

• Shropshire Hills Four Peak Challenge (16th March): A guided 15-mile hike through the stunning Shropshire Hills, taking in the peaks of Caer Caradoc, the Lawley, Hope Bowdler, and Ragleth. More details here.

• Pontesbury Potter (22nd March): A guided 15-mile hike through the Shropshire Hills, exploring stunning landscapes and iconic peak in aid of Severn Hospice. More details here.

• Shropshire Way 80K Festival (5th - 6th April): A weekend of running and walking through the Shropshire Hills, featuring events ranging from 10K to 80K, with proceeds supporting the Grow Cook Learn charity. More details here.

Local Business Events 🛍️🎉

Support local talent and enjoy unique experiences with these exciting events hosted by businesses in and around Shrewsbury.

• The Artisan Lab

  • Sterling Silver & Pendant Workshop: 20th January

  • Linocut Workshop: Create your bespoke journal for 2025: 30th January

  • Silves Ring Workshop: 6th February

• Snoop Shrewsbury

  • Sip & Paint Workshop: 23rd January and 13th February

• Glou Glou

  • Drink & Draw: January 22nd, February 12th, March 12th and April 9th

  • Wine Tasting: February 5th, March 5th and April 2nd

  • Wine & Shine Quiz: February 19th

• Gindifferent Bar

  • Gin Therapy Events: 31st January, 28th February, 28th March, 25th April and 23rd May

EVENTS ON THIS WEEK 📅

Wine Tasting at Glou Glou

📅 Date: Wednesday, 8th January 2025
⏰ Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Venue: Glou Glou, 17A Castle Gates, Shrewsbury
🎟 Tickets: Here

Enjoy an evening of exploration with Glou Glou’s themed wine tasting session for January, “Refresh.”

Sample five distinctive wines made from lesser-known grape varieties, complemented by a curated selection of artisanal meats, cheeses, and fresh bread. With wines available for purchase and the bar open late, it’s a relaxed way to discover your new favourites.

Craft and Chatter

📅 Date: Thursday, 9th January 2025
⏰ Time: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Venue: Shrewsbury Library, Castle Gates, Shrewsbury, SY1 2AQ
🔗 More details: Here

Bring your craft project and join a welcoming group at Shrewsbury Library’s "Craft and Chatter" session. It’s the perfect chance to share tips, learn new skills, and enjoy good conversation over a cup of tea. Whether you're an experienced crafter or a beginner, everyone is welcome.

Green Day Tribute

📅 Date: Friday, 10th January 2025
⏰ Time: 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM (Doors open at 6:00 PM)
📍 Venue: The Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, SY1 2LF
🎟 Tickets: Here

Get ready for an electrifying Green Day tribute night with Dookie, the UK’s No.1 Green Day tribute band, performing all the hits and fan favourites like “Boulevard of Broken Dreams,” “Basket Case,” and “American Idiot.” The night kicks off with an Emo Pre-Party at 6 PM, support from Radioactive, and wraps up with a free Emo After-Party.

Glam 45 Live

📅 Date: Saturday, 11th January 2025
⏰ Time: 6:00 PM – Late (Doors open at 6:00 PM, Live Gig starts at 7:30 PM)
📍 Venue: The Buttermarket, Howard St, Shrewsbury, SY1 2LF
🎟 Tickets: Here

Step into a time machine and relive the golden age of Glam Rock with Glam 45 at The Buttermarket. This spectacular show features hits from legends like T. Rex, Slade, Suzi Quatro, David Bowie, and more. The evening begins with a Rock Party from 6 PM, followed by Glam 45 live at 7:30 PM, and a Glam Rock After Party to keep the energy alive.

Alison Rayner Quintet

📅 Date: Saturday, 11th January 2025
⏰ Time: 8:00 PM (Doors open at 7:30 PM)
📍 Venue: The Hive, 5 Belmont, Shrewsbury, SY1 1TE
🎟 Tickets: Here

Experience the captivating sounds of the Alison Rayner Quintet (ARQ) as they return to Shrewsbury. This accomplished ensemble blends folk-inspired melodies, intricate rhythms, and emotive compositions to create “songs without words” that tell vivid stories.

Featuring Alison Rayner on bass, Diane McLoughlin on saxophone, Dierdre Cartwright on guitar, Steve Lodder on piano, and Buster Birch on drums, it promises to be a richly atmospheric evening. Perfect for music lovers of all ages, with reduced ticket prices available for under-22s.

Beginners 5K Running Group

📅 Date: Sunday, 12th January 2025
⏰ Time: 9:50 AM
📍 Venue: The Doctor’s Monument, The Quarry, Shrewsbury
🔗 More details: Here

Start your year on the right foot with the Shropshire Shufflers' 5K Programme! This 12-week plan is designed for beginners, blending walking and jogging to help you gradually build confidence and endurance.

Led by qualified run leaders and supported by friendly club members, it’s the perfect way to ease into running and reach your fitness goals in 2025.

Bonus: Paint 'n' Sip @ Kanu Poke

📅 Date: Tuesday, 14th January 2025
⏰ Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Venue: Kanu Poke, 5 Roushill, Shrewsbury, SY1 1PQ
🎟 Tickets: Here

Unleash your creativity at Kanu Poke’s Paint 'n' Sip event! Grab a drink, pick up a brush, and follow a simple, step-by-step guide from artist Katie to create your own masterpiece. This fun, no-pressure event is perfect for beginners—no prior art experience needed. Enjoy a free drink, delicious nibbles, and a relaxed atmosphere while painting with friends or making new ones.

LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 🛍️

The 12th Man Retro Shop

This week, we're highlighting The 12th Man Retro, a unique addition to The Parade Shopping Centre in Shrewsbury.

Launched just before Christmas by lifelong football fan Shaun Owen, the shop is a treasure trove for football enthusiasts, offering a carefully curated collection of vintage football shirts from across the globe.

From iconic European teams to South American clubs, as well as international sides and even Shrewsbury Town FC, The 12th Man celebrates the beauty, history, and stories behind these cherished pieces of football culture.

Shaun’s passion for the game and his two decades of collecting have shaped the shop into a space where visitors can browse, reminisce, and share their love of the sport.

With plans to launch an online store soon, The 12th Man Retro is a must-visit for fans seeking rare finds or simply looking to explore the artistry and nostalgia of football shirts.

PHOTO OF THE WEEK 📸

The New Year started with a breathtaking natural spectacle as the Northern Lights graced skies across the UK, including right here in Shrewsbury.

Captured by Paul Yates Photography, this rare local glimpse of the aurora was the result of a strong solar storm.

With the Sun's activity at its peak, 2025 could bring more chances to witness this magical phenomenon.

Submit your photo of Shrewsbury to @ShrewsburyScoop on Instagram or Facebook to be featured next time.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK 🗣️

With the new year underway, we want to know what you're most looking forward to in Shrewsbury this year—vote below or reply to this email and share your thoughts with us.

SPORTS DIGEST 🏆

Shrewsbury Town Football Club ⚽

Shrewsbury Town FC: A Tough Day at Leyton Orient

Shrewsbury Town’s struggles in League One continued today with a narrow 1-0 defeat away to play-off contenders Leyton Orient. Despite a determined first-half display, Shrewsbury were undone by a second-half goal from Tottenham Hotspur loanee Jamie Donley, whose strike marked his third in as many games.

While Shrewsbury’s defense held firm for much of the match, Leyton Orient’s quality shone through after the break, creating several chances before finding the decisive goal. Town keeper Jamal Blackman made some crucial stops, but the team lacked the cutting edge needed to turn the tide.

With just one win in their last eight games, Shrewsbury remain eight points adrift of safety and face a tough challenge in their next fixture. They’ll host fourth-placed Huddersfield Town at Croud Meadow on Saturday, January 11th, at 3PM. A strong performance will be crucial as the team looks to build momentum and fight for survival in the weeks ahead.

Shrewsbury Town Women: Fixture Update

Shrewsbury Town Women’s first match of 2025 against Coventry Sphinx, originally scheduled for today, has been postponed due to adverse weather conditions in the forecast.

Updates on the rescheduling of this fixture will be shared as soon as they’re available.

Hockey 🏑

Shrewsbury Hockey Club: Weekend Fixtures

Saturday, 11th January:

• U14s Teams: Competing against Shropshire CVL in a tournament.

• Women’s Teams:

  • 1st XI vs. Ashbourne 2 (Division 3 NW)

  • 2nd XI vs. Lichfield 4 (Division 4 NW)

  • 3rd XI vs. Lichfield 7 Development (Division 5 W)

  • 4th XI vs. Newport 2 (Division 5 W)

• Men’s Teams:

  • 1st XI vs. Stafford 1 (Division 4 W)

  • 2nd XI vs. Beacon 4 (Division 7 NW)

  • 3rd XI vs. Leek 3 (Division 7 NW)

  • 4th XI vs. Leek 6 (Division 9 NW)

  • 5th XI vs. Stone 4 (Division 10 NW)

Sunday, 12th January:

• Men’s 2nd XI: Tournament game vs. Leek 4s.

A busy and competitive weekend ahead for Shrewsbury Hockey Club. Best of luck to all teams.

Events, Clubs & More

If you would like Shrewsbury Scoop to feature your sports club or event, please reply to this email with the details and we can include it in future newsletters.

GET IN TOUCH 👋 

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Reply to this email or let us know on Facebook or Instagram what sections you'd like to see, or if you have content to share for these exciting new additions.

Thank You!

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See you next week,

Will - Shrewsbury Scoop.

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