A mix of performance, art installations and more will feature at the Lancashire Encounter

Processions, huge choirs and much more are being planned for this year’s Lancashire Encounter.

The biennial arts festival takes over the city for three days in September.

Following last year’s Brief Encounter – which aims to keep the excitement bubbling along in the fallow years – Preston City Council have released details of what we can expect.

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Focused on the Flag Market this year’s festival is also going to make use of the newly opened Preston Market Hall.

Friday 21 September

A 300-strong Lancashire choir will bring an authentic voice to the festival that reflects the diversity of the county.

More Music Morecambe are leading the choir and working with established choirs and new singers.

It will be taking place across the Indoor and Outdoor Markets on the Friday and Saturday evenings.

Saturday 22 September

During Saturday afternoon and into the evening a Greek Agora is being set up on the Flag Market.

Derelict Festival, who have run a number of events in the city, are programming the stage which is going to be a centre of artist, spiritual and political life of the city.

Events will run throughout the afternoon and evening.

Also on Saturday evening the Lancashire Revue will be a ticketed evening of performances capturing the ‘charms and voices of contemporary Lancashire’.

Read more: What we made of the Brief Encounter in the city centre

Sunday 23 September

A daytime procession will bring communities together from across the county.

Preston Carnival, Spareparts and Morecambe Kite festival are just some of those taking part.

The procession is due to run from Friargate to Avenham Park.

The Encounter rounds off a summer of events in the city.

Cabinet member for leisure and culture councillor Peter Kelly said: “It’s fantastic to see so much happening in the city. Last year Preston events attracted over 92,000 visitors with an overall quality rating of 94% and we aim to increase that this year.

“A vibrant events and cultural programme is important for the growth of the city, contributing to local economy, attracting visitors, creating a thriving place to live and having a positive impact on people’s health and wellbeing. Which is why it is so important for people to support our events and the development of our city.

“The team put a lot of work in behind the scenes to offer something for everyone, and I hope Prestonians are as excited as I am to see all this happening on our doorsteps.”

Will you be going to the Lancashire Encounter? Are you taking part? Let us know in the comments below