Preston residents will this weekend enjoy a programme of events as a popular festival arrives in the city centre.

The Lancashire Encounter arts and culture festival has now returned following a hiatus brought about by the pandemic.

Kicking off on Friday 17 September and running to Saturday 2 October, Encounter celebrates Lancashire’s rich and diverse cultural offer and sees the city brought to life with an exciting programme of contemporary and community arts from across the county.

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Councillor Peter Kelly, Cabinet member for culture and arts at Preston City Council, said: “It’s hard to believe we’re back, but we are, and I can’t wait to see the city full of theatre and music again. We all deserve to have a great time!

“There’s definitely something for everyone, so take a look at the programme online and plan your visit. Extending the festival to two full weeks means we can showcase even more great talent as events and shows make a welcome return to the city.”

Funded by Arts Council England and Preston City Council, the festival showcases the city’s long history of hosting successful cultural events and includes performances, exhibitions, family-friendly activities and creative commissions, accessible to all age groups.

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Highlights include a family picnic in Winckley Square, a dance piece documenting the Preston story of Dick Kerr’s Ladies, and a 4-metre tall puppet telling a story of division, hope and belonging.

Also included are HOWL, a film created by 100 people howling at Preston bus station, two visual arts exhibitions that take their inspiration from the working of cotton, and several other newly commissioned art pieces.

The festival will take place at locations across Preston, including the Flag Market, the Harris, the Bus Station, the MET, and Preston’s newest venue – the Mobile Event Tent.

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All events are free to attend (except the Salsa Party), and social distancing and ventilation have been considered. Many of the indoor events have limited spaces, so booking in advance is recommended.

For more information and to book, visit – https://www.lancsencounter.co.uk

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Will you be going to the festival? Let us know in the comments below