£3.1m St Annes square gears up for 2nd event after record crowds turn out for 'fantastic' Fylde Fest
A vibrant new event in coming to St Annes Square this weekend just two weeks after the crowds in numbers turned out to make the second Fylde Fest a big hit.
The purpose-built new events space at the heart of town will host its first monthly artisan market on Saturday, April 11, featuring independent makers, designers and food producers.
Residents and visitors can explore a diverse range of handmade crafts, local food and drink and products from emerging creative businesses from 10am to 4pm.
The market is the result of a partnership between Fylde Council and Lancashire-based Crafty Vintage and will continue on the second Saturday of every month throughout this year.
The market will feature a rotating selection of seasonal and themed traders in the space unveiled last year following a £3.1m refurbishment of The Square in 2025 which created a spacious, inviting public area for events and social activities.
The first Artisan Market follows the success of the Fylde Fest: Spring Into Life event on March 28 - a fun-packed afternoon of live entertainment and hand-on activities celebrating wellbeing and community connection organised by Fylde Council and Discover Fylde.
Along with entertainment such as that from Steve Royle and Tom Lister, an hilarious slow bike race and skateboarding sessions with Live Like Ralph, there was a live food-preparing demonstration from Raf Perussi from Beurre Patisserie and dance sessions from Zumba Suzy and the Line Dance and Friendship Group.
Creative corners were also buzzing with activity and local community groups and organisations also played a key role throughout the afternoon.
Fylde Council leader Cllr Karen Buckley said: “Fylde Fest: Spring into Life again showed the incredible spirit of our community.
“It was fantastic to see so many people come together, enjoy the free activities and support local groups and performers.
“Fylde Fest continues to grow as a highlight of our local events calendar, helping to position St Annes Square as a thriving hub for culture, community and celebration.
“With such an overwhelmingly positive response, this year’s Spring into Life event has set the bar for future festivals.”
Looking forward to the Artisan Market, she said: “I can’t wait to see the Square come alive with talented local makers, delicious food and that special buzz that only a great market can bring.
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“This is exactly the kind of community event that makes Fylde such a special place to live and visit.”