What's on this weekend – September 19th - 21st

This weekend is jam packed with great things to do! Take to the streets for a celebration of culture in Preston, enjoy a taste of Leyland, or step back in time as the heritage open days continue... The choice is yours! 

Take a look at this handy list of some of the events taking place in Lancashire this weekend, but for even more inspiration don’t forget to check out our latest events guide here. 

The Great Victorian Ghost Hunt, Samlesbury  
19th September  

For the first time in history, Samlesbury Hall is inviting the public to take part in a unique ghost hunting adventure like no other.  

Like spirit seeker Charles Dickens – who stayed at Samlesbury Hall in 1867, perhaps as part of his personal fascination to find a genuine haunted house, you can become part of Samlesbury Hall’s haunted heritage by taking part in The Great Victorian Ghost Hunt on selected dates throughout the autumn/winter period. 

Find out more 

A Taste Of Leyland  

20th September  

One of the biggest events on the Leyland Calendar returns as local and regional food producers showcase their wares at A Taste of Leyland.  

Head along to Hough Lane for a fun day out for any foodie, family or anyone looking to support local businesses.  

The event will also feature live music, walkabout acts, children's rides, face painting and more.  

Find out more 

Encounter Festival, Preston 

20th September  

A huge celebration of arts and culture in the centre of Preston, Encounter Festival is not to be missed. Expect music, motion and magic as the streets come alive with theatre and dance performances and much more during its ten-year anniversary. A lot of the action will take place on the Flag Market, but you can also catch acts on Harris Street and Birley Street nearby. The whole day concludes with the spectacular torchlight procession starting at Moor Park and making its way back towards the Flag Market.  

There will be bars and live music around the Flag Market during the evening, with stilt walking performances too.  

Find out more 

Working Engines Gala Sunday, Hesketh Bank 

21st September  

The big parade of the little engines at West Lancashire Light Railway!  
Head along to the station to enjoy a full passenger steam train timetable, and the Hudswell mines diesel. You’ll find demonstration diesel freight trains plus drive-a-diesel, live steam model railways, Meccano displays, traditional games and a tearoom with hot and cold food. 

Find out more 

Dykeland by Sarah-Joy Ford Exhibition  
Until 21st September  

Dykeland Volume 1 presents a body of work created by the artist Sarah-Joy Ford, that investigates the history of dyke and lesbian lands in the UK through textile practice. 

This weekend marks the final weekend of the exhibition at The Whitaker Museum in Rawtenstall, so be sure not to miss it. It's the perfect weekend event if you are eagerly awaiting the British Textile Biennial starting in a few weeks' time  

Find out more 

Heritage Open Days, Various Locations across Lancashire 
Until 21st September  

The biggest national celebration of history and culture continues! The two weeks of fun isn't over yet so be sure to get out and explore the history and heritage of the area if you didn’t last weekend, or stop by the attractions you missed last week.  You can see some of the fantastic open events on our dedicated page for the festival below and find even more on the Heritage Open Days website.  

Find out more 

Dragonfly Festival, WWT Martin Mere   

Until 22nd September  

Martin Mere offers fun for the whole family all year round, but their dragonfly festival will soon be over, and it is not one to be missed. Enjoy dragonfly themed activities and events, explore the magical world of dragonflies and all that the centre has to offer. From nature trails to canoe safaris, pond dipping sessions, crafts, outdoor games and play areas, you won't go wrong with a trip to Martin Mere. 

Find out more