Hyndburn Borough Council Invites Event Organisers to Apply for 2026/27 Grants
Hyndburn Borough Council Invites Event Organisers to Apply for 2026/27 Grants
Hyndburn Borough Council is calling on local organisations and event organisers to apply for funding to deliver exciting events across the borough between 1st April 2026 and 31st March 2027.
Image: Fireworks at Accrington Christmas Lights Switch On
The Council runs an annual events programme designed to bring communities together and showcase the best of Hyndburn. This year, we’re seeking proposals that will increase footfall on our high streets, parks, and open spaces, attracting visitors from Hyndburn, East Lancashire, and the wider Northwest.
Deputy Leader of the Council, Kimberley Whitehead, said:
“We’ve seen incredible success with our events programme this year, from the wonderful Christmas celebrations that have taken place this winter to the Accrington Food and Drink Festival last summer which drew a huge crowds. Rhyddings Parks was illuminated for the Twilight event and the community gathered for an afternoon of hot chocolate and tree planting at Bullough Park’s Forest Fun Day, and many more events took place across the borough.
These events not only strengthen community pride but also help support local businesses and showcase everything Hyndburn has to offer. We’re excited to support organisers in creating another fantastic year of events.”

Image 2: Accrington Christmas Tree Festival
Event organisers will be responsible for securing all necessary permissions, licences, insurance, and safety measures and there is no charge for using Council-owned land.
The Council aims to award several grants across a range of categories, ensuring a diverse mix of events for all ages and interests. Event categories include:
- Food Festival (Summer 2026)
- Active Environment & Nature (Summer 2026)
- Soapbox Challenge (Summer 2026)
- Traffic Management for a Carnival and Procession
- Culture, Heritage & Arts
- Accrington Christmas Light Switch-On
- Township Christmas Light Switch-On
- Great Harwood Winter Event
- Other
This year’s programme delivered numerous successful events, from a food festival to community light switch-ons, including the Accrington event which saw 15,000 people welcome the start of the festive season with extra special guest, East 17. The return of the much-loved Soapbox Challenge saw Brazilian dancers lining the streets of Accrington as local residents hurtled through the town in homemade racing karts, all in the name of charity. EcoFest was a huge success, providing free activities and live performances all while educating people on how they can reduce their impact on the climate. More recently, the return of the Accrington Christmas Tree Festival saw beautiful, weird and wacky trees decorated by local businesses and organisations.
Image: Market at Great Harwood Christmas Extravaganza
Applications are now open and we can’t wait to see what’s instore for next year. For more details, including the grant application form, follow the link below: