Popular arts and crafts festivals return to Barnstaple Pannier Market

Four new Sunday festivals showcasing the region’s artists, makers and creatives will be hosted at Barnstaple Pannier Market in the coming months.

A new series of themed Connect and Create festivals bringing together independent businesses and creators from across the South West will be held at the market from May through to November.

Each will feature independent local brands, artisans and makers, as well as interactive creative workshops, live music and street food.

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The first is on Sunday, May 17 and the theme is ‘Blossom’. Then on August 9 there is Nirvana (Part One) and August 30 will host Nirvana (Part Two), with Invierno on Sunday, November 22 rounding off the season. ‘Invierno’ is Spanish for winter.

Hannah Harrington, town centre and pannier market manager, said: “Events like Connect and Create play a vital role in bringing people into the town centre and showcasing the incredible talent we have across North Devon and the wider South West.

“Barnstaple Pannier Market is the perfect setting for these festivals that celebrate creativity, community and independent businesses.”

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Chay West, event organiser of the Connect and Create festivals, added: “Connect and Create was designed to celebrate the amazing independent makers, artists and creatives we have here in the South West.

“These festivals are all about bringing people together - supporting small businesses, learning new skills through workshops, enjoying great food and music and creating a space where creativity can truly thrive.”

More information such as line-ups ahead of the May event can be found on the Barnstaple Pannier Market and Connect and Create social media channels.

Independent traders interested in taking part in the first event, Blossom on May 17 can apply via the official application form.