Shildon Leap Festival

On the day of this leap year, Thursday 29 February, Shildon Town Square is set to be transformed into a landscape of light and colour. With a generous grant from the Government’s UKSPF Levelling Up Fund via Durham County Council’s Cultural Engagement Team, Baccanalia, supported by Shildon Town Council, is orchestrating a free leap-year celebration that promises to be both magical and unforgettable. As twilight descends on this rare day, residents are welcomed to witness Shildon as never before. From 5pm until 8pm, the festival, a fusion of art, light, and community spirit, is an open invitation to explore the intrigue of the leap year through interactive light installations and activities. Echoing the event’s themes of light and time, the town square will become a canvas where the mystical nature of this extra day in our calendar is brought to life. Pupils from St John’s CE (Aided) Primary School will be crafting installations to be presented at the event. Their imaginative creations will be a key highlight, showcasing the innovative spirit of our younger generation. In addition to the visual feast, the festival will offer entertainment and culinary delights. Community crafting opportunities will form part of the process in the run-up to, and at, the event. Worry not about the unpredictable British weather – this festival is designed to shine. Attendees are encouraged to bring their umbrellas, not just for shelter but as part of the spectacle. Special creation stations will allow everyone to adorn their umbrellas with ‘lightifacts’, turning a simple accessory into a personal galaxy of stars, planets, and constellations, lighting up Shildon with a parade of handheld universes. “The event underscores Baccanalia’s commitment to cultural engagement,” said company director, Thomas Wales, “aiming to make arts and culture accessible to all. “It’s a moment for the community to come together, celebrate, and take stock of who we are in Shildon, in relation to the universe beyond the planet we live on. “Do not miss this extraordinary occasion. Join us in Shildon Town Square on 29 February from 5pm for an evening where every light tells a story, and every face is illuminated by wonder.” For more information on the Shildon Leap Festival and how to participate, click here or email info[@]baccanalia[.]co[.]uk.