Discover Unmissable Lincolnshire Events: Festivals, Markets, Music & More

8 min read

Nestled in the heart of England, Lincolnshire offers a vibrant tapestry of events that cater to all tastes and interests. From historic fairs and bustling markets to music festivals and cultural celebrations, there’s always something happening in this charming county. Whether we’re locals or visitors, Lincolnshire’s events promise unforgettable experiences and memories.

As we explore the diverse array of activities, we’ll uncover the rich heritage and contemporary flair that make Lincolnshire unique. So, let’s dive into the highlights and discover what makes this county’s events truly special.

Key Takeaways

Lincolnshire’s Events: Lincolnshire offers a diverse range of events catering to different interests, including festivals, music events, food and drink celebrations, historical re-enactments, cultural highlights, and family-friendly activities.
Annual Festivals: Discover key annual festivals like the Lincoln Christmas Market, Lincolnshire Show, and Spalding Flower Parade, which highlight the county’s heritage and community spirit.
Music Events: The county’s vibrant music scene features notable events such as the Lincolnshire International Chamber Music Festival and the Stamford Music Festival, attracting enthusiasts of various genres.
Food and Drink: Relish Lincolnshire’s culinary delights at events like the Lincolnshire Food & Drink Festival and the Sausage and Cider Festival, showcasing local produce and traditional beverages.
Historical Re-Enactments: Engage with Lincolnshire’s rich past through historical re-enactments, including the Battle of Lincoln and medieval festivals at Tattershall Castle and Gainsborough Old Hall.
Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy a plethora of family-friendly activities at venues like the Northcote Heavy Horse Centre and Rand Farm Park, offering interactive experiences and seasonal events.

Annual Festivals

Lincolnshire hosts many annual festivals that draw crowds from across the region and beyond. These events highlight the county’s unique heritage and community spirit.

Lincoln Christmas Market

The Lincoln Christmas Market, held in early December, transforms the city into a festive wonderland. Over 250 stalls populate Lincoln’s medieval square, offering crafts, gifts, and local produce. The market, established in 1982, is one of the oldest in the UK. Visitors can enjoy mulled wine, festive foods, and fairground rides, creating an enchanting holiday atmosphere.

Lincolnshire Show

The Lincolnshire Show, occurring each June at the Lincolnshire Showground, celebrates agriculture and rural life. This event features livestock displays, equestrian competitions, and a wide range of local food and drink stalls. Established over a century ago, it attracts more than 60,000 visitors annually. It’s perfect for families, with activities including craft tents, educational displays, and live entertainment.

Spalding Flower Parade

Spalding Flower Parade, held in May, showcases the region’s horticultural excellence. Floats adorned with millions of tulip petals parade through the town, creating vibrant displays. Originating in 1959, the event honours the area’s bulb-growing history. Besides the parade, visitors can enjoy flower shows, craft fairs, and live music, ensuring a colourful celebration of Spring.

Music Events

Lincolnshire offers a vibrant music scene, attracting enthusiasts of varying genres. From classical performances to contemporary festivals, the county provides a spectacular musical journey.

Lincolnshire International Chamber Music Festival

The Lincolnshire International Chamber Music Festival, held annually in August, showcases classical music at its finest. Esteemed musicians from around the world perform in historic venues across the county, including churches and stately homes. The festival’s programme features a blend of well-loved chamber pieces and lesser-known works, providing an enriching experience for attendees. Masterclasses and workshops complement the performances, allowing music students to learn from seasoned professionals.

Stamford Music Festival

The Stamford Music Festival, occurring each summer, brings modern and folk music to the picturesque town of Stamford. Local bands and international artists share the stage, creating a dynamic atmosphere. The festival’s open-air venues, set against Stamford’s historical architecture, enhance the musical experience. Beyond performances, the event includes food stalls offering regional delicacies and artisanal crafts, making it a family-friendly affair.

Food And Drink Events

Lincolnshire offers numerous food and drink events that cater to diverse tastes. These events highlight the county’s culinary delights and traditional beverages.

Lincolnshire Food & Drink Festival

The Lincolnshire Food & Drink Festival showcases the region’s culinary heritage. Held annually in the city of Lincoln, this festival features a variety of local produce, including cheeses, sausages, and fresh vegetables. Attendees can sample delicacies from over 100 food stalls. Cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs provide insight into creating gourmet dishes using local ingredients. Live music and entertainment add to the vibrant atmosphere, making this festival a wholesome family event.

Sausage and Cider Festival

The Sausage and Cider Festival, held in several locations across Lincolnshire, celebrates two local favourites. Featuring a wide range of sausages, from traditional Lincolnshire recipes to innovative flavours, the event delights meat lovers. Over 30 cider varieties, including local and regional brews, complement the food offerings. Guests can enjoy live bands and entertainment throughout the day. Workshops on sausage making and cider brewing offer learning opportunities for enthusiasts, enhancing the festival experience.

Historical Re-Enactments

Lincolnshire offers captivating historical re-enactments, giving us a glimpse into the past and immersing us in bygone eras.

Battle of Lincoln

The Battle of Lincoln Re-enactment brings the pivotal conflict of 1217 back to life, held annually at Lincoln Castle. Participants, adorned in period-accurate armour, recreate the historic encounter between forces loyal to Prince Louis of France and those supporting King Henry III. The event features realistic combat sequences, medieval encampments, and interactive demonstrations, ensuring an educational and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

Medieval Festivals

Medieval festivals in Lincolnshire transport us to an era of knights, jousting tournaments, and bustling market squares. The Tattershall Castle Medieval Festival, held each July, features live jousting, falconry displays, and medieval crafts. Attendees can explore artisan stalls offering period-specific wares, enjoy hearty food reminiscent of the medieval period, and witness vibrant historical pageantry. Another notable event, the Gainsborough Old Hall Medieval Festival, includes reenactors portraying daily life, weaponry exhibitions, and traditional music, creating an immersive historical experience.

Cultural Highlights

Lincolnshire’s diverse cultural scene offers events that enrich the community and attract tourists. We explore the following key highlights in literature and film.

Lincoln Book Festival

The Lincoln Book Festival, held each September, celebrates literature in all its forms. Featuring renowned authors, the festival offers book signings, readings, and workshops. Attendees engage with writers such as Ian McMillan and Val McDermid, gaining insights into the crafting of their works. The festival venues include historical locations, enhancing the experience and attracting literature enthusiasts from across the UK. Additionally, the festival incorporates children’s events, making it accessible for families.

Lincoln Film Festival

The Lincoln Film Festival showcases independent and international cinema. Held annually in October, this event screens a curated selection of films across genres, including documentaries and feature films. Screening venues like The Collection and the Lincoln Drill Hall provide an immersive viewing experience. Industry professionals host Q&A sessions and panel discussions, fostering deeper understanding of filmmaking processes. The festival also includes workshops for aspiring filmmakers, promoting local talent and engagement.

Family-Friendly Activities

Lincolnshire offers diverse family-friendly activities throughout the year, with events catering to children of all ages. From interacting with majestic horses to exploring fun farm parks, there are countless options to create memorable experiences for the whole family.

Northcote Heavy Horse Centre Events

The Northcote Heavy Horse Centre provides interactive experiences, perfect for horse-loving families. We can join various events, including:

Open Days: These occur several times a year, allowing visitors to meet and learn about the resident horses.
Medieval Days: During summer, the centre hosts medieval-themed days with jousting displays, knight demonstrations and the chance to try on medieval armour.
Fundraising Events: Seasonal events like summer fairs and Christmas markets include pony rides, horse-drawn carriage rides and other entertainment.

Farm Festivals: During school holidays, we can enjoy activities such as animal feeding, egg collecting, and tractor rides.
Seasonal Events: From Easter egg hunts in spring to pumpkin picking in autumn, Rand Farm Park offers engaging events throughout the year.
Christmas Experience: Families can visit Santa’s grotto, meet reindeer and take part in festive activities, providing a magical experience for young children.

Conclusion

Lincolnshire truly stands out as a destination brimming with diverse and engaging events that cater to all tastes and interests. From historic fairs and cultural festivals to vibrant music scenes and culinary delights there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor the county’s rich heritage and lively community spirit promise unforgettable experiences year-round. Embrace the charm and excitement of Lincolnshire’s events and create lasting memories with family and friends.

So let’s explore the wonders of Lincolnshire and immerse ourselves in the unique blend of tradition and modern vibrancy that this remarkable county has to offer.