Encounter Festival in Preston

This September, Preston bursts into life for Encounter Festival – a one-day explosion of music, movement and magic taking over the city centre. Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, this free festival transforms the Flag Market and beyond into a joyous playground of puppets, dance, live music, art and community celebration.

As ever, the focus is firmly on connection – linking local talent with world-class outdoor arts, and offering something for all ages and interests. From interactive theatre and drop-in creative workshops to large-scale spectacle, Encounter makes Preston feel like a city in full technicolour.

This year’s programme is packed with standout performances and new commissions. Look out for Closer to My Dreams, a bold hip hop dance piece by choreographer Chad Taylor; Ancient Giants, an epic street performance fusing puppetry, martial arts and South Asian mythology; and the return of Raggle Taggle Arts’ Rhythm of the Vardo, a lively family-friendly show packed with music and movement, performed from a hand-built wagon. Also, don’t miss Hodge Podge, an interactive performance exploring how our choices shape the world, or Urooj Qawwal, bringing devotional music and traditional instruments to the heart of the city.

There are plenty of ways to get hands-on too – from Maypole dancing workshops and stilt walking to apple pressing and make-your-own story jars. And at the heart of it all, the Festival Village on the Flag Market will be alive with DJs, food, family activities and a brand-new stage showcasing emerging talent from across the region.

As day turns to night, all eyes turn to the legendary Torchlight Procession, this year led by a striking large-scale puppet of Arthur Wharton – the world’s first Black professional footballer – created in partnership with Preston North End Community and Education Trust. Featuring everything from carnival troupes and brass bands to giant puppets and samba beats, it’s an unmissable community spectacle. And to finish? A dazzling fireworks finale above the city skyline.