A BRITISH celebration of scrimping with style to set to return to the North East of England this September as planning for the only national Festival of Thrift is now underway.
Following the success of the Festival of Thrift last year which saw 40,000 people descend upon Lingfield Point in Darlington for a weekend filled with free frugal fun, this year’s festival will once again take place at the unique business park on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September 2015.
The Festival aims to show people how reusing, recycling and upcycling can be fun, save them money and benefit the environment at the same time. This year’s Festival programme, which will be revealed over the coming months, will feature leading and emerging artists from across the globe, demonstrations, stalls and workshops to offer thrifty advice, tips and tricks and much more to festival-goers.
This year’s Festivities will also form part of a weekend of celebrations for Darlington and the region as the town marks the 190th anniversary of the world’s first steam passenger train, which travelled between Stockton and Darlington in 1825.
Festival director, Stella Hall said: “As part of the 2015 festival we’re excited to be linking in with the 1825 celebrations which coincides with the Festival of Thrift 2015 weekend.
“We’re developing a fantastic programme for this year’s festival that will be bursting at the seams with famously thrifty entertainment and amazing artists, so much so I’ve included an extra staged area. Last year’s event was a huge success and it has been fantastic to see the festival shortlisted in the Observer Ethical Awards 2015.
“Thrift is more than a trend – it’s here to stay, it’s a culture and a set of values to live by. The festival is certainly helping to get it engrained into the lives of people across the North East of England and beyond. Our thrifters are a community and the Festival is a great opportunity for them to get together and share what they do, while enjoying great entertainment and a free day out.”
After celebrating being shortlisted in the Arts and Culture category of the Observer Ethical Awards 2015, festival organisers are poised to bring together nationally known scrimpers, leading and emerging artists, musicians amongst special installations, demonstrations, debates, workshops and stalls offering upcycled, recycled, sustainable course thrifty goods in Darlington to help communities towards a happier, more sustainable way of living.
Eddie Humphries, Lingfield Point estate manager, added: “Last year around 40,000 people visited Lingfield Point over the two day festival, which gave us a great opportunity to showcase the business park and everything we have on offer – from public art to the award-winning upcycled office spaces.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone back for this year’s event on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September.”
For more information on the Festival of Thrift 2015 and its programme visit the website at www.festivalofthrift.co.uk and register for updates.