Town Council Announce Programme of Free Community Events for 2026

Penrith Town Council has announced a programme of free community events for 2026, designed to bring residents together and celebrate the town throughout the year.

Developed and delivered in partnership with local organisations, including Penrith Business Improvement District (BID) and Penrith’s Chamber of Trade, this year’s programme follows the theme ‘In the Garden’ and offers activities for all ages.

After the colourful ‘Penrith Goes Orange’ on 25th April, the first major event of the year will be the town’s traditional May Day celebration on Monday 4 May, which will once again fill Penrith with rides, music, food and family activities. This year’s event will include a food court, community art space, performance arena and two music stages featuring local performers, alongside plans for a themed ‘green’ parade involving local schools and youth groups. 

New for 2026 is The Great Penrith Picnic, taking place on Saturday 4 July in Castle Park. Delivered in partnership with Westmorland & Furness Council, the event will showcase the town’s summer programme, with live music, wild play activities, sports taster sessions and a range of local charitable and sporting organisations.

Throughout the summer, Penrith Town Council is also exploring opportunities to support a series of free family play days and live local music events across the town, through the Penrith Arts & Culture Group, along with potential collaboration on Penrith BID’s Summer Saturdays programme. 

The year will culminate with the return of Penrith Christmas Sparkle on Saturday 21 November 2026, featuring live music, food trucks and a festive illuminated parade, alongside some new elements for 2026. These events follow the successful introduction of the Penrith Community Awards in 2025.

Cllr Scott Jackson, Deputy Chair of Communities Committee, said:

“Community events have a hugely positive impact on a town, bringing social and economic benefits while creating opportunities for people to connect with one another and with local organisations.

“We’re proud to support a diverse programme of events and look forward to seeing residents and visitors enjoy everything Penrith has to offer throughout the year.”