Key Highlights
- Lancashire Day is celebrated on November 27th to honor the county’s rich heritage and traditions.
- The day features various events such as town crier proclamations, market visits, and walking tours.
- Food enthusiasts can explore local delicacies like Lancashire hotpot and Chorley cakes.
- A special festival will be held on November 29th to celebrate the county’s makers and craftspeople.
- Lancastrians traditionally raise a toast to the Duke of Lancaster at 9 pm on this day.
Discovering Lancashire Day: A Celebration of Local Heritage and Cuisine
Lancashire Day, celebrated annually on November 27th, is more than just a date in the calendar; it’s an opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich cultural tapestry that defines the county. This special day offers a myriad of events and activities designed to highlight the best of what Lancashire has to offer.
Proclamations and Town Criers
The celebration begins with the traditional reading of the Lancashire Day Proclamation at lunchtime on November 27th. According to Lancashire Life magazine, this proclamation celebrates the historical boundaries of the county and asserts the right of its people to be called Lancastrians. In Clitheroe, you can hear the powerful voice of Roland Hailwood, a town crier with over 40 years of experience, delivering this rousing speech.
Market Delights and Independent Shops
For those who enjoy exploring local markets, the day provides an excellent opportunity to visit Clitheroe’s vibrant market. Here, you can choose from a wide array of tasty locally sourced produce, shop in independent shops, and sample some of Lancashire’s famous dishes like Lancashire hotpot and Chorley cakes. After your culinary exploration, head up to Clitheroe Castle for exceptional views across the Ribble Valley.
Foodie Festivities
Lancashire is renowned for its delicious food offerings, with traditional regional fare such as Lancashire cheese, Bury black pudding, Ormskirk gingerbread, and Wigan’s famous butter pies. To celebrate these culinary delights, La Locanda in Gisburn is hosting a dedicated Lancashire Day event with a specially designed menu that blends the owners’ Italian heritage with local flavors.
Walking and Foraging
The county’s natural beauty offers endless opportunities for leisurely strolls. Whether you’re looking to explore fells, forests, or farmland, there’s something for everyone. The Lancashire Life magazine features walking experts John Lenehan and Kate Henry, who can provide valuable insights into the best routes to take. For those interested in a more hands-on experience, Pete at Pendle Plant Craft offers foraging walks, while Natures Gems provides guided wildlife tours.
Festive Saturday Celebrations
On November 29th, the ‘Made Here in Lancashire Festival’ takes place in Hope Methodist Church Hall. This event includes a mix of activities such as shopping local from Lancashire makers, listening to regional choirs and bands, and participating in creative workshops like Christmas wreath making with The Vintage Flower Market, children’s hand embroidery with Create and Sew Studio, and jewelry-making with North West Jewellery School.
Traditional Toasts
No celebration of Lancashire Day is complete without raising a toast to the Duke of Lancaster at 9 pm. Whether you prefer a locally brewed beer from Bowland Brewery, Lancaster Brewery, or Rivington Brew Co., or opt for something else entirely, this tradition continues to bring people together in unity and pride.
As Lancashire Day approaches, get ready to experience the joy of local culture, indulge in delicious food, and participate in a series of events that celebrate all that makes Lancashire unique. Whether you’re planning a day out or simply marking the occasion with friends and family, there’s plenty to enjoy on this special day.
