More than 100 volunteers thanked after National Festival of Making success

More than 100 volunteers who helped make the 2026 National Festival of Making a success have been honoured at a special celebration event at Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery.

The event recognised the people who helped welcome visitors, support artists and makers, guide people through activities and keep things running smoothly across the festival’s many locations.

This year’s festival drew tens of thousands of visitors to more than 100 events at 20+ venues across Blackburn town centre, including Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery, Blackburn Cathedral, Cathedral Square and the Reel Cinema.

The 2026 programme included interactive workshops, live performances, makers markets, exhibitions, talks and family-friendly activities.

Councillor Quesir Mahmood, Deputy Leader of Blackburn with Darwen, said: “The National Festival of Making continues to showcase the very best of Blackburn with Darwen, and our volunteers are at the heart of its success. They are often the first friendly face visitors meet, sharing their local knowledge, enthusiasm and pride in our borough. It was fantastic to see so many people enjoying this year’s record-breaking festival, and I’d like to thank every volunteer for helping to create such a warm, welcoming and memorable experience for everyone who attended.”

Lauren Zawadzki, Co-Director of the National Festival of Making, said: “A festival on the scale of the National Festival of Making simply wouldn’t happen without the dedication of our volunteers. From the first welcome of the day to the final pack down, they bring kindness, enthusiasm and an incredible willingness to help wherever needed.

This year the programme expended as we worked in partnership with Chip In and they noted that ‘more than ever, our volunteers demonstrated what makes this festival so special. Whether they were returning for another year or joining us for the first time, each person played an important part in creating a welcoming experience for thousands of visitors, artists and participants. Their generosity with their time, their pride in Blackburn and their commitment to supporting culture in the town is something we never take for granted.’”