Image: © BBA Photography / Shutterstock | Shrewsbury town centre, Wyle Cop

Shrewsbury offers a variety of events for the final weekend of May 2026. The schedule includes a major outdoor festival, theatrical performances, art workshops, and museum exhibitions. This guide provides the essential details for planning your time in the Shrewsbury area on Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31.

1. Vanlife Festival at West Mid Showground

The Vanlife Festival takes place from Friday, May 29 to Sunday, May 31 at the West Mid Showground. This event focuses on campervans, alternative living, and outdoor exploration. Attendees can view a range of van conversions, attend technical demonstrations, and browse trade stalls selling travel equipment.

The festival grounds include areas for live music and communal fire pits. It is a family-friendly event with activities suitable for all ages. Day tickets and weekend camping options are available through the official festival website.

2. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at Theatre Severn

Theatre Severn hosts the musical production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang on Saturday, May 30. This stage adaptation of the classic film features the well-known flying car and a full cast of local performers.

The production is scheduled for both matinee and evening performances in the Main Auditorium. This is the final day of the show’s run in Shrewsbury. Tickets should be booked in advance via the Theatre Severn box office to ensure availability.

3. Abstract Painting Workshop with David Bannister

On Saturday, May 30, artist David Bannister leads an introductory workshop on abstract painting. The session begins at 10:00 and is designed for individuals interested in exploring non-representational art techniques.

Participants will learn about composition, colour theory, and the use of different materials to create texture. The cost for the session is £75 per person. This workshop provides a structured environment for those looking to develop their creative skills. Booking is managed through TicketSource.

Location: Artist Studio. Credit: Unsplash.

4. Wildlife Photographer of the Year at Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery

Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery is currently hosting the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition. This display features nature photography on loan from the Natural History Museum in London.

The exhibition includes images of animal behaviour and rare species from around the world. A secondary gallery features “Wildlife on your doorstep,” which showcases work by local photographers from the Shrewsbury area. The museum is open on Saturday from 10:00 to 16:00. Note that the museum is closed on Sundays. Admission for adults is £7.50.

5. Northern Soul: Still Burning at Old Market Hall

The Old Market Hall cinema is screening the documentary Northern Soul: Still Burning throughout the weekend. The film examines the history and continued relevance of the Northern Soul music and dance movement in the UK.

Screenings are available on both Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31. The venue is located in the historic 16th-century market hall in the town centre. This documentary is rated 15. Check the Old Market Hall website for specific screening times.

6. The Sheep Detectives at Old Market Hall

For families, the Old Market Hall is also showing The Sheep Detectives. This animated mystery follows a group of farm animals attempting to solve a local puzzle.

The film is rated PG and runs on both Saturday and Sunday. It provides a community cinema experience in a central location. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office before the screening.

“The late May bank holiday period often sees a high volume of community activity in the town centre,” says a representative from the local events council. “The 2026 schedule offers a balance between large-scale outdoor festivals and smaller indoor cultural workshops.”