Local talent to take centre stage at The Preston Weekender

Organisers of The Preston Weekender have pledged their commitment to profiling local talent alongside established performers.

The event, organised by Preston Business Improvement District (BID) in partnership with city centre businesses and Preston City Council, takes place across the Bank Holiday Weekend of Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 May on the Flag Market.

On Saturday, the Ministry of Sound Takeover promises fans of commercial dance music a night to remember, with performances from K-Klass, Livin’ Joy, Freemasons, Julie McKnight and lots more.

Alongside the recognised names, organisers have invited popular Preston-based DJ Mark Freejack to join the line-up, alongside promising city DJ Macy Lancaster.

Freejack is known to most Prestonians as a stalwart of the city scene, alongside his two-decades on commercial radio across the North West.

Mark Freejack behind the Decks Pic: Evoque/J Andrews Photography

Mark said: “I’m so passionate about Preston, and its entertainment offer, so I am excited to be playing at the event.

“Events like the Preston Weekender are few and far between on our doorstep and it’s important that we get behind them, that’s the only way that they’ll continue.

“It’s a perfect opportunity for the city to come together and have a massive celebration across the Bank Holiday weekend”.

Mark’s fellow DJ Macy Lancaster is currently studying a UCLan degree at Spirit Studios in Manchester. Preston-born Macy is in high demand at events and venues across the North West and beyond.

As a result of her skills and popularity, at just 20 years of age, 2024 will see her take up a month-long residency at the iconic Ibiza Rocks venue in San Antonio on the party island. She’s also recently been invited to play at London superclub, Ministry of Sound.

On the Sunday, the Weekender line-up will include From The Jam featuring original members of the band, North West iconic punk band Buzzcocks, and ever-popular indie band Space.

Joining the headliners are local bands Evil Blizzard, Hauspoints, The Amber List, Building Giants, Ginnel, and a host of Preston-centred bands and performers.

Ginnel on stage — Ginnel are performing at The Preston Weekender

Peter Alexander, part of the event’s organising group, said: “The Weekender is the perfect opportunity to showcase just how much musical talent there is in the city.

“At the outset of planning the event, we were committed to offering musicians from our area the opportunity to play on a big stage with recognised names in their home city.

“The Preston Weekender is something that’s been missing from the city for a long-time. We’re hoping that people get behind the event, get their tickets, and come and enjoy a brilliant weekend of music and entertainment”.

Tickets are available from The Preston Weekender website.

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