Barnaby Festival 2016

Team Barnaby has confirmed that the next Barnaby Festival will take place from 17-26 June 2016 – an action-packed ten days spanning two weekends to be filled with fun and creative activities, musical gems, visual arts and the centrepiece of the festival – the Carnival Parade.

Once again the contemporary arts festival, which celebrates Macclesfield’s rich culture and creative heritage, will take place in venues and spaces across Macclesfield town centre, including Christ Church and Market Place.

Since its launch in 2010 re-inventing the town’s ancient tradition of marking St Barnabas day, the festival has grown annually. “Five years on, Barnaby has exceeded all of our expectations and in order to continue to deliver an original festival of the same scale, quality and interest we’ve taken the decision to become biennial – which means it takes a break this year but will be back on the streets of Macclesfield in 2016” explains Chair of the charity, Lynne Jones.

The volunteer led, not-for profit festival is devoted to enriching cultural and civic life in Macclesfield by putting on significant events, exhibitions and entertainment for the community and visitors alike. An army of more than 160 volunteers give their time freely to deliver the midsummer extravaganza, which is supported by around 60 businesses and community groups.

In June 2014, James Berresford, the Chief Executive of Visit England described Barnaby as “one of the best [festivals] of its type in the country”. For the team of volunteers which delivers the festival, work for 2016 is already well underway – developing ideas, building partnerships and raising funding for Barnaby2016.

The first open meeting of the year will take place at ArtSpace, Sutton Mill, Heapy Street, SK11 7GB on Tuesday 24^th February at 8pm – anyone wishing to get involved or find out more is invited to attend, new faces and old welcome! Alternatively, simply contact mail@barnabyfestival.org.uk for further details.