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Baccanalia is excited to announce the launch of the brand new South West Durham Heritage Festival, taking place this September and October across Spennymoor, Bishop Auckland, and Aycliffe.
The festival will bring communities together to celebrate the region’s rich history and culture through an exciting programme of free, family-friendly events.
The festival begins at the Spennymoor Town Show in Jubilee Park on Saturday 6 September, where young explorers can dig into interactive heritage pits to unearth hidden objects and surprises. Historical characters will roam the park, and we’ll also be collecting stories and voices from the community - capturing what heritage means to Spennymoor today to help shape the festival’s future.
In the Cornish Room at Spennymoor Town Hall, there’ll be talks from John Cornish, son of acclaimed artist Norman Cornish MBE, who reflects on his father’s journey from miner to nationally recognised artist, and John Banham, who talks about Tisa and the Spennymoor Settlement.
On Saturday 27 September the celebrations continue in Bishop Auckland, with a packed day of talks, displays, and activities.
Inside Bishop Auckland Town Hall, visitors can explore engaging exhibits from local heritage groups and enjoy talks from experts, including:
Frances Wilson – The Story of Crimdon Dene
Harry Harbottle – A Miner’s Story by Greg McCormack
Glynn Wales – The Anglo-Saxon Church at Escomb
Families can get creative with a collaborative coat of arms activity led by artist Wade Forster, while outside in the Marketplace, the Northern Bygone Society returns with its much-loved classic car show.
On Friday 3 October, the festival arrives in Aycliffe, joining forces with the ever popular Aycliffe Street Food Market.
Alongside an array of food stalls, visitors can try their hand at the heritage dig-pit, while roaming historical characters explore modern delicacies like bubble tea and chorizo jam. A film crew will also be on hand to capture community stories and memories, creating a living record of what heritage means in Aycliffe today.
Baccanalia extends thanks to Bishop Auckland, Spennymoor and Great Aycliffe Town Councils for their support in making South West Durham Heritage Festival possible.
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Find out what’s happening this week across the Culture County. From festivals and exhibitions, to sport and theatre, you’re certain to have an eventful time in Durham.
