Four amazing events taking place this bank holiday

With Bank Holiday looming, there are so many events to get involved in that it's sometimes hard to know where to begin! Take a look at the four major events taking place that weekend or check out our August Bank Holiday What's On page for even more event inspiration.

28th to 30th August

Colne Rhythm and Blues Festival 

Taking place across the Friday to Sunday of August Bank Holiday weekend, the award-winning Colne Rhythm and Blues Festival returns and brings with it more than 50 artists from across the UK and around the world. The event takes place in three venues in the heart of Colne – the Pendle Hippodrome, the returning Muni Theatre and The Little Theatre.

The festival which has been running since 1991, has been recognised as the UK Blues Festival of The Year for the last two years and we're sure it won't be any different for 2026. Headliners for the weekend include, Belfast guitar sensation Dom Martin & Band Friday night, American blues star Ray Beadle make his festival debut Saturday night and blues-rock icon Walter Trout, leading the entertainment on Sunday. There's a whole load of talent in between too, so be sure to head along and join in the fun.

Tickets are on sale now from as little as £120 for the full three-day event. But act fast! They are expected to sell out.

29th August

Accrington Soapbox Challenge

Want to enjoy some fast paced, movie themed action? Head along to Accrington Soapbox Challenge this bank holiday and watch as the participants whizz round Accrington themed obstacles! From quirky designs and fancy-dress costumes to heart racing runs, it is a great day out for all ages.

There will be live entertainment, bumper cars for the kids to enjoy, American style vehicle displays and plenty of family fun all taking place in the town centre. The event is completely free for spectators, and if you are feeling brave applications for soapbox racers are still open.

29th August 

Darwen Festival of Fun 

Enjoy a fun filled day of family entertainment in Darwen Market Square this Bank Holiday. This much-loved community event brings together live performances, music, dance, food traders, and interactive activities for children and families. Roaming street performers, the Fabulous Contraptions will also be gliding around. These two time-travellers from the past will be finding out all about this incredible year 2026, that they find themselves in.

Crafty Vintage will be in attendance with their artisan market, and a traditional funfair will be available for the kids to enjoy too. There is something for all ages and the event is free to join in with.

31st August 

World Gravy Wrestling Championships, Bacup Cricket Ground

Back with a change of venue, the World Gravy Wrestling Championships take place once again this August Bank Holiday Monday. This wild and whacky wrestling competition sees contestants wrestle one another a pool full of Lancashire gravy for two minutes. Scores are awarded based on fancy dress, comedy effect and entertainment while the contestants all raise funds for charities of their choice.

This year the event will take place at Bacup Cricket Club.  This new venue offers plenty of space for a fun filled family day out, with activities including bouncy castles, face painting, craft beer stalls, cake and tombola stands all on offer during the event. The event is low cost with entry starting from as little as £3 per child and £4.50 per adult, and you can get in the gravy for £20 should you wish!