Preston: City Event Programme

With a calendar bursting with all manner of musical events, family-friendly festivals and cultural celebrations, there’s plenty of reasons for locals and visitors to get out and about in Preston over the coming months.

To start, late (24 – 26) May’s Caribbean Carnival is a perennial highlight in the city calendar and 2024 marks its 50th anniversary – making it one of the longest running cultural celebrations in Preston. Each year the event attracts tens of thousands of visitors with its Caribbean rhythms, food stalls, flamboyant procession, and family-friendly activities. Plus, we hear that plans are afoot to make this year’s anniversary Carnival extra special.

May’s Caribbean Carnival is a perennial highlight in the city calendar and 2024 marks its 50th anniversary

There’s plenty for music lovers to enjoy this year, not least the chance to discover new and emerging musicians as Young Jazz in the Square brings a fresh generation of talent to Winckley Square on Saturday 1 June. That event runs back to back with Preston Jazz and Improvisation Festival’s annual Jazzin’ in the Park which brings the tunes back to the square on Saturday 8 June.

Then there’s another anniversary on the horizon as the D-Day 80th Anniversary Celebration remembers the events of WWII in Normandy in 1944. History comes to life at the Flag Market on Saturday 8 June, where there will be a parade and performances, alongside educational workshops and a historical exhibition.

Of course, there will be music running through the Windrush 76 Festival at Avenham and Miller Park, which also promises dance, art and inspiring stories. This fun, free, family-friendly affair commemorates the extraordinary contributions and cultural heritage of the African-Caribbean community and the Windrush generation from 22 – 23 June. 

Preston City Mela is a vibrant, dynamic summertime celebration of South Asian arts and culture

At Moor Park on Saturday 6 July, the Preston City Mela is a vibrant, dynamic summertime celebration of South Asian arts and culture. From exciting performances, music and dancing, to shopping and food stalls — there’s something for everybody. While workshops invite you to discover the secrets behind everything from henna tattoos to traditional printing techniques.

Heading into autumn, and the eclectic Encounter Festival launches Preston into life across the weekend of 21 – 22 September. Expect bustling streets and a buzzing city as local artists, musicians and creatives bring their light and talent to an event that honours not just Preston itself, but Lancashire more widely too.

Finally, the following Saturday 28 September sees everybody welcome at Preston Pride. The annual celebration of the city’s LGBTQ+ community has filled the Flag Market with colour, joy, music and events since 2012. Look out for guest appearances and unique performances alongside stalls and information stands at this inclusive party.