Barnsley’s Big Weekend returns to the town centre in July with an exciting, packed line-up of free events and entertainment, with something for everyone.
The thrilling event will run on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 July across Barnsley town centre and makes for the perfect weekend break with live music, Barnsley Pride and a family sports day to keep you entertained.
The weekend’s activities kick off in The Glass Works square on Saturday with the return of the popular Brassed On! music festival.
Visitors can enjoy a day filled with incredible brass band performances including Barnsley Metropolitan Band, celebrating their golden 50th anniversary, followed by an impressive lineup including the world-renowned Grimethorpe Colliery Band.
The festival features carnival performances by Frumptarn Guggenband and Global Grooves, who will also be conducting p-Bone brass workshops for all ages.
The Library @ the Lightbox will host the Marvellous Music Makers Stage, showcasing the talents of Barnsley Intermediate Band, Civic Fusion and Barnsley Town Concert Band. Young visitors will also be able to enjoy the Summer Reading Challenge at the library, with stories, activities and a chance to sign up to the challenge throughout Saturday 13 July.
Saturday also brings with it Barnsley’s Pride celebrations.
Performances will start on the main stage in Mandela Gardens from 12pm, alongside an open acoustic stage within The Civic and an 18+ stage in The Garrison from 1pm.
Artist announcements are to follow. Keep an eye on the @myBarnsleyPride Facebook and Instagram channels for more information.
On Sunday, get ready to shake up your routine with the exhilarating 'What's Your Move' day!
Between 11am and 4pm, The Glass Works Square will transform into a vibrant hub of physical activities.
Whether you're a sports enthusiast or just looking to add a little more activity to your life, 'What's Your Move' has something for all abilities and ages.
Ramp up your bike and scooter skills, take part in a game of pickleball or roll back the years with a Roller Disco whilst enjoy performances from 80’s PE teachers and a musical pommel horse that's sure to get you laughing.
Matt O’Neill, Executive Director for Growth and Sustainability at Barnsley Council said: “We are so excited to see Barnsley’s Big Weekend return to the town centre next month. Filled with fantastic free activities and incredible live performances, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
“We are very proud of our fantastic town centre and our summer events programme, put on by our outstanding and award-winning events teams. It is a brilliant opportunity to showcase our incredible offer to both new and returning visitors.
“Why not make a weekend of it and stay overnight? Barnsley has lots of amazing attractions, excellent restaurants, brilliant bars and places to enjoy across the borough and our brand-new Visit Barnsley website can help you to make the most of your stay once the events have concluded.”
The Big Weekend, organised by Barnsley Council, represents one of several exciting events taking place in the town centre this year. In May, the Flavours Food Festival proved to be a resounding success, and still to come is Barnsley Garden Party in September, Barnsley Bright Nights in November and a Christmas market in December.
Find out more about what’s on in Barnsley via our website https://visitbarnsley.co.uk.