Celebrating River Joy: Aquarium IMAX Screening & Exhibit Launch Afterparty
Posted on: 25 Sep 2025Bristol’s waterfront will come alive this Saturday, 27 September, with a one-of-a-kind gathering that blends cinema, art, and celebration of rivers. River Joy: Aquarium IMAX Screening & Exhibit Launch Afterparty isn’t just an event — it’s an invitation to reconnect with the River Avon through storytelling, music, and community spirit.
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Film Screening with a Local Voice
The evening opens inside the Aquarium’s IMAX theatre with a special presentation of Rave On For The Avon, a feature documentary that has sparked conversations about swimming culture, ecology, and the people who keep the river’s story alive. After the credits roll, a panel of local river advocates will share their perspectives — reflecting on campaigns, citizen-led initiatives, and the enduring importance of caring for Bristol’s waterways.
Adding a touch of magic, the river spirit puppet Avona will make a debut appearance, a symbolic presence reminding audiences that the Avon is not only a landscape but also a living companion in the city’s daily life.
Contributions come from Nic Kane, Charlotte Sawyer, Felicity Flashman, Aggie Nyagari, Becca Drazin, Mrs Meg Avon, Saskia Tomlinson, Jemima Homer, Eva Perrin and Katie Holloway.
River Joy Exhibit is generously sponsored by House & Co.
THE EXHIBITION IS ALSO OPEN FOR FREE TO VISIT ON SUNDAY 28 SEPTEMBER 2025 AT BRISTOL AQUARIUM, ANCHOR ROAD, BS1 5TT
An Afterparty to Remember
Once the lights dim in the theatre, the celebration moves into the Aquarium foyer, which transforms into a vibrant afterparty space. From 8:30 pm until late, guests will be greeted with music, dance, and creative energy. A DJ set will keep the atmosphere lively, while performers and artists bring playful surprises throughout the night.
This isn’t just about revelry — the afterparty also serves as the preview launch for the River Joy art and photography exhibit. On display will be works by Bristol-based creatives whose images capture the beauty, resilience, and human connection tied to rivers. From dawn swims to contemplative reflections, each piece offers a unique perspective on how people interact with flowing water.
Why This Celebration Matters
The theme of the night is joy, but beneath it lies a powerful message: rivers are not background scenery. They are ecosystems, meeting places, and sources of inspiration. This event aims to:
Shine a spotlight on the Avon and the role it plays in shaping community identity.
Bridge art and environmental action, showing that creativity can be a catalyst for awareness and care.
Celebrate citizen activism, from swimmers to campaigners, who dedicate themselves to protecting rivers.
Offer an inclusive, festive space where everyone — not just activists or artists — can join in.
What Guests Can Expect
A powerful IMAX film screening followed by real conversations with people who know the river best.
A lively afterparty with DJs, dancing, and the theatrical presence of Avona, the river spirit.
A first look at the River Joy art and photography exhibit before it opens publicly the following day.
Opportunities to mingle with artists, advocates, and fellow river-lovers in an atmosphere that is more celebratory than formal.
A Celebration with Depth
At its heart, River Joy is about more than one evening. It’s about recognizing that rivers are central to our communities — sources of both life and inspiration. By bringing together film, art, performance, and music, this gathering turns advocacy into something celebratory, playful, and memorable.
As guests leave the Aquarium late that night, they will carry with them not only the echoes of music and conversation but also a deeper sense of connection to the river flowing through Bristol.