The free events are being held to mark the International Day of Older Persons and will showcase the wide range of activities, services and support available to help people stay active, connected and independent.
Taking place in Penrith, Barrow and Kendal, the festivals are aimed primarily at older adults, although everyone is welcome to attend.
Visitors will have the opportunity to take part in a variety of activities and taster sessions, enjoy live music and dance performances, meet local community groups and organisations, and access advice and information to support their health and wellbeing.
Local partners will host information stalls highlighting activities, services and support available in communities across Eden, Furness and South Lakeland. Each event has a slightly different programme, including local entertainment. The Penrith Festival will include a mobile unit offering an immersive dementia experience, whilst the Barrow and Kendal Festivals will have health care professionals available to administer winter vaccinations to eligible people.
All of the festivals will offer practical advice and demonstrations of equipment that can help people live independently, alongside an equipment take-back service for items that are no longer needed. The Better Homes Team will also be attending to provide advice and guidance on Disabled Facilities Grants and Handyperson service.
As part of the celebrations, St Mary's Hospice will be hosting a Dementia Friendly Disco at Barrow Cricket Club, the popular Silver Sunday event returns to Barrow Town Hall, and there is a Silver Saturday event at Ulverston’s Coronation Hall later in the month.
Councillor Patricia Bell, Member for Adult Care said:
"The Age Friendly Festivals are a wonderful opportunity for people to come together, meet new friends, discover local activities and find out about the support available in their communities.
We know that staying active, connected and involved can have a hugely positive impact on health and wellbeing. These events celebrate the valuable contribution older people make to our communities while showcasing the many opportunities available to help people live well and age well.
I would encourage everyone to come along, enjoy the activities and entertainment, and see what's on offer in their area.”
The festivals are being delivered through partnership working between local organisations committed to supporting older people to remain active and independent within their communities.
Anyone interested in attending can simply come along on the day to discover what's happening in their area, meet new people and find out more about the activities, services and support available.
Event dates
Eden Age Friendly Festival
Penrith Leisure Centre
Thursday 1 October, 10am to 2pm
Furness Age Friendly Festival
Barrow Leisure Centre
Friday 2 October, 10am to 3pm
St Mary's Hospice Dementia Friendly Disco
Barrow Cricket Club
Wednesday 30th September, 1pm – 4pm, Call 01229 444407 to book
South Lakes Age Friendly Festival
Kendal Leisure Centre
Sunday 4 October, 11am to 2.30pm
Silver Sunday
Barrow Town Hall
Sunday 4 October, 11am to 3pm
Silver Saturday
Coronation Hall Ulverston
Saturday 17 October 2026
2pm to 4pm