Padiham on Parade is the perfect experience for those seeking a completely different experience from the norm. This beloved annual event brings the 1940s back to life in the centre of Padiham, with vintage glamour, community spirit, and respectful remembrance.
💡 What Is It?
Padiham on Parade is a two-day, wartime-themed festival held each summer, organised by volunteers to celebrate Armed Forces Week and bring people together. Think vintage cars, classic 1940s fashions, live music, military vehicles, and more. It’s been running since 2015 and has grown into a highlight of the local calendar – it’s grown so popular that it’s even been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2024 for its outstanding community impact.
👀 What You’ll Find
- A vibrant vintage fair with stalls inside the Town Hall ballroom, including retro crafts and food
- Live performances throughout the weekend, featuring singers and wartime-style dancers to give you a blast from the past.
- Classic vehicles and military displays, including a remembrance parade involving cadets and local groups
- Family-friendly fun such as Punch & Judy, vintage bus rides to Gawthorpe Hall, fairground attractions, and wartime crafts in the library
🎁 Why It’s Worth Shouting About
This event brilliantly combines entertainment, remembrance, and learning. It’s inclusive by design – welcoming everyone from history lovers to families and carers, and celebrating community spirit with respect and joy. With thousands attending each year, it really shows how much it means to residents across the whole of Lancashire, not just those living in the town.
✅ Accessibility at a Glance
- Held throughout Padiham town centre, fully outdoors with step-free access
- Since it’s built around the centre of the town, you’ll find ample wheelchair friendly footpaths to make the most of the festivities
- Town Hall ballroom and marquee stall areas offer indoor respite and seating
- Food stalls scattered throughout, so you won’t be going hungry that’s for sure
- Completely free to attend; supported by Padiham and Burnley Councils and backed by local volunteers
- Road closures are announced in advanced, although there’s usually plenty of places to find a car parking space
🔎 Want to Know More?
This year, Padiham on Parade will be taking place on the 28th & 29th of June – so if you’re thinking of finding a way to fill your weekend, then look no further! Those who have been over previous years have absolutely loved it, and it’s a memory you’ll be making to last a lifetime! If you would like to find out more information, take a look on the website https://www.padihamonparade.org.uk/
💬 Know Somewhere Great?
Have you come across another community event or inclusive festival like this? Tell us about it, we’d love to help other carers and people with additional needs find special outings that really bring people together.