Kendal Leisure Centre will host a free festival offering older residents the chance to discover activities, services and support designed to help them stay active, connected and independent.
The South Lakes Age Friendly Festival will take place on Sunday 4 October, from 11am to 2.30pm. It is aimed primarily at older adults, although everyone is welcome to attend, and visitors can simply come along on the day without booking.
What will be available in Kendal
Organisers say the event will bring together local community groups and organisations, with information stalls highlighting activities and support available across South Lakeland. Visitors will be able to take part in activities and taster sessions, enjoy live music and dance performances, and meet groups working with people in their communities.
Advice and information will also be available to support health and wellbeing. Health care professionals will be at the Kendal festival to administer winter vaccinations to eligible people.
The festival will include practical advice and demonstrations of equipment that can help people live independently. There will also be an equipment take-back service for items that are no longer needed.
Support for independent living
The Better Homes Team will attend to provide guidance on Disabled Facilities Grants and the Handyperson service. These sessions are part of a wider programme intended to help people remain active and independent at home and within their communities.
The Kendal event is one of several Age Friendly Festivals being held by Westmorland and Furness Council and local partners to mark the International Day of Older Persons. Similar festivals will be held at Penrith Leisure Centre on Thursday 1 October, from 10am to 2pm, and Barrow Leisure Centre on Friday 2 October, from 10am to 3pm.
Other events in the programme include a Dementia Friendly Disco hosted by St Mary’s Hospice at Barrow Cricket Club on Wednesday 30 September, a Silver Sunday event at Barrow Town Hall on Sunday 4 October, and a Silver Saturday event at Ulverston’s Coronation Hall on Saturday 17 October 2026.
Organisers encourage people to attend
The council says the festivals are being delivered through partnership working between organisations supporting older people to remain active and independent. Councillor Patricia Bell, the council’s Member for Adult Care, said the events would give people an opportunity to meet new friends, discover local activities and find out about help available in their communities.
Organisers encourage anyone interested in the Kendal festival to attend on the day, enjoy the activities and entertainment, and find out more about local services and support.