There are a wide range of events across Preston this week, including networking days and live music, comedy and themed party nights, and even family days out. There is something for everyone.
Read on for some of the best things to do in Preston for the coming week, starting Monday 20 July, with links to our event listings.
And if you’re an organiser or venue, make sure you submit your event to quickly and easily put it in front of the people of Preston for free.
Society1 is once again hosting its regular freelancer meet-up. A perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, network, and share tips and insights.
Martin Brown is the illustrator of the incredible Horrible History novels, and with The Harris’ recent exhibit of his stellar work, the artist is returning as part of a family fun event and illustrator masterclass. Book ahead to avoid disappointment.
Another incredible networking event for those with businesses in and around Preston. This event is free and will also feature a workshop on how to showcase your business by Guy Shackleton.
Back at Society1, there is also a special coworking day focused on those doing business in the tech sector. Enjoy the incredible facility and the opportunity to mingle with others in a similar industry.
Rae Morris is an Alt-Pop songwriter from Blackpool who will be joined by other artists in a celebratory night marking The Ferret’s 20th anniversary this year.
Kick off the summer with a family day out at Haighton Manor with face painting, dinosaurs, and soft play all lined up to keep the little ones entertained.
Artch Studios is hosting an all-day festival where aspiring local talent ranging from singers, dancers, comedians, poets, and more can take to the stage and share their talents.
<img src="https://www.mtlblog.com/media-library/two-people-bundled-up-in-winter-coats-peer-through-a-window-decorated-with-twinkling-lights-and-oversized-ornaments-right-a-ho.jpg?id=54970624&width=1245&height=700&coordinates=2%2C0%2C3%2C0"/><br/><br/><p>If you're looking for a "picture-perfect postcard setting" to get into the festive mood, look no further! This enchanted <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/almonte-christmas-village-near-montreal-hallmark-movie">Christmas village near Montreal</a> has glowing trails, nostalgic holiday activities and dreamy horse-drawn carriage rides.</p><p>From November 29 to January 4, <a href="https://www.uppercanadavillage.com/event/alight-at-night/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Upper Canada Village</a> will transform into a glowing winter wonderland, with over 1 million twinkling lights transforming every corner of this historic site.</p><p>Under 1.5 hours from Montreal, the <a href="https://ottawatourism.ca/en/see-and-do/alight-night" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Alight at Night Festival</a> is filled with nostalgic Christmas magic. Organizers describe it as a "picture-perfect postcard setting" that's a "true winter wonderland."</p><p>As you stroll around the village, you'll find each building, tree, and pathway decked out in colourful lights. The walking trails are perfect for a scenic walk through snow-covered paths, but if you're looking for a cozier experience, you can book the Pommier Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride, where up to four guests can snuggle up for an intimate, 30-minute ride through the village.</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCKv673xMm2/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCKv673xMm2/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top" rel="noopener">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>Of course, the holiday experience wouldn't be complete without delicious festive treats. Warm up with a hot meal at Willard's Hotel or Harvest Barn, where they'll be serving holiday classics.</p><p>If you're craving something sweet, stop by the Village Café or the snack hut for a hot BeaverTail or a steaming cup of hot chocolate.</p><p>Santa's workshop will also be open from November 29 to December 23, where you can grab a festive photo with the big guy himself and share your holiday wishes. </p><p>Then, pop over to Christ Church, where classic carols are sung by costumed carollers in a scene that feels straight out of a Victorian Christmas card.</p><p>There's also a giant, glowing toy train, which kids can take a 15-minute ride on, stopping for photos along the way.</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C1p_KHahkCV/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=cd85b043-a077-459a-9203-db069c867416" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C1p_KHahkCV/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=cd85b043-a077-459a-9203-db069c867416" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top" rel="noopener">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>For more holiday fun, head to Crysler Hall to watch the Festive Sound and Light Show, where hundreds of vibrant lights dance along to classic holiday tunes. You can also shop for gifts and artisan products at the Village Store.</p><p>There's also a whole lineup of other activities at the festival, including snapping pics at the giant Lite-Brite installation, posing with gingerbread figures and Snowy Silhouettes, or cuddling up on the Mistletoe Loveseat for a cozy photo op. </p><p>In the Frosty Fun Zone, kids and adults alike can sip hot drinks, decorate ornaments, play holiday games, and even leave a chalk message on the Chilly Chalkboard.</p><p>When you're ready to unwind, Blitzen's Barn offers a cozy storytime session around the fireplace. One of Santa's elves will be on hand to tell classic holiday tales.</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCkoDnlhiOn/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCkoDnlhiOn/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top" rel="noopener">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>Tickets start at $17 for general admission (ages 13+), with discounts available for kids, students, and seniors. Little ones ages 0-4 are free but still need a ticket, so be sure to book ahead—tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.</p><p>Pommier carriage rides start at $150 and can be shared by up to four people. This package includes full access to the Alight at Night Festival and a bonus of four tickets for Upper Canada Village’s 2025 day programming.</p><p>For those who want to experience the lights but need a more accessible option, there are designated accessibility nights on December 4, 11, and 18, when guests can take a 30-minute driving tour through the village to enjoy the festival from the warmth and comfort of their vehicles.</p><h3>Alight at Night, Upper Canada Village</h3><br/><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C1cuEh5PalD/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C1cuEh5PalD/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top" rel="noopener">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>Price: General admission (ages 13+) is $17</p><p>When: Select dates from November 29, 2024 to January 4, 2025</p><p>Address: 13740 County Rd. 2, Morrisburg, ON</p><p>Accessibility: Parking is free, and all paths are wheelchair accessible (though winter weather can affect conditions). Pets are not permitted, but service animals are welcome.</p><p>Why You Need To Go: Whether you're after a festive stroll with friends, a magical family outing, or a cozy carriage ride with a special someone, this holiday festival has everything to make your Christmas season sparkle.</p><p><a href="https://www.uppercanadavillage.com/event/alight-at-night/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Alight at Night event page</a></p><p><em>Before you get going, check out our <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/responsible-travel-guidelines" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Responsible Travel Guide</a> so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.</em></p>
