Buxton International Festival

Recognised nationally and internationally as one of the UK’s leading arts festivals, Buxton International Festival is a summer celebration of the very best opera, classical music, jazz and books at the heart of the beautiful Peak District in the spa town of Buxton.

Buxton International Festival has been thrilling audiences since 1979. We have a reputation for offering often once-in-a-life-time opportunities to hear sublime but rarely performed operas. Initially founded to help restore Buxton Opera House, the festival has become more than just a summer celebration. Internationally acclaimed singers, musicians and literary speakers are all attracted to our beautiful spa town and our Young Artists Programme continues to introduce audiences to the rising stars of the future.

In partnership with Buxton Opera House, Platform 3 is our Learning and Engagement initiative, providing exciting new opportunities for young people, schools and communities to take part in performing arts activities and projects across Buxton, the High Peak and beyond.

Renowned for its relaxed and friendly atmosphere, this wonderful annual festival attracts both dedicated opera lovers and those new to the genre.

In 2023, BIF far exceeded attendance expectations with sell-out events and accolades across the board. Buxton International Festival looks forward to welcoming everyone for more unmissable opera, music and literary events which you simply will not find all in one place elsewhere.

This year, 2024, we are excited to bring five eagerly awaited operas and, in a major coup, a performance from the Cuban-British director, choreographer and ballet dancer, Carlos Acosta, with his touring show On Before.

Giuseppi Verdi’s Ernani : 6, 10, 12, 14, 17 July (all at 7.15pm except for a 2pm matinee on 14 July)

Handel’s Il Trionfo del Tempo e del Disinganno: 7, 11, 15 and 18 July (at 7.15pm except for 2pm matinee performances on 11 and 18 July)

Peter Brook’s adaptation of Bizet’s La tragédie de Carmen: 5, 9, 13, 16 July (all at 7.15pm)

Ethel Smyth’s The Boatswain’s Mate: 8, 14, 19 July, all at 7.15pm

Joseph Haydn’s La Canterina: 7, 11, 18 and 20 July (at 7.15pm except for 2pm matinee performances on 7 and 20 July)

Alongside Cuban dancer and choreographer, Carlos Acosta, this year’s musical superstars include soprano Golda Schultz, conductor and Music Director at the Royal Opera House Sir Antonio Pappano and Strictly Come Dancing’s lead singer Tommy Blaize. The books programme features BBC newsreader Clive Myrie, barrister, author and broadcaster Rob Rinder, BBC security correspondent and author Frank Gardner, Green Party MP Caroline Lucas as well as Mayors of Greater Manchester and the Liverpool City Region, Andy Burnham and Steve Rotheram


Group bookings: 10% discount on ticket prices for groups of 10+.

We welcome groups of all types to Buxton International Festival and provide a group booking service for parties of 10+ along with 10% discount on ticket prices. A group discount is available for any groups of 10+ to any events across our programme of opera, music, jazz and books, whether you are a group of friends, a local community group or a tour, all are welcome. We can work with you to find you the best festival itinerary for your party! Click here to find out more or get in touch with our team: jen.francis@buxtonfestival.co.uk

Join as a BIF Friend: Access Priority Booking from just £33 per year and become part of the festival you love all year-round. Unlock a whole host of benefits. Click here for more information.