Headline Event
Best-selling author Lee Childwill appear on stage at St Mary’s Church on the evening of Saturday 7 February in conversation with local debut author, Rachel Canwell. Lee will talk about his life and work before holding a book-signing session.
Lee is one of the town’s most famous ex-residents; he penned the first of his iconic Jack Reacher thriller series in his Kirkby Lonsdale home, overlooking the church tower. Reacher has since gone on to be a global publishing phenomenon, triggering a multi-billion-dollar media empire and captivating fans from all over the world.
“I wrote the first three Jack Reacher books in Kirkby Lonsdale, and they went on to become the foundation of what has turned into a $3bn global entertainment franchise,” said the author, speaking of his involvement in the festival. “Clearly, Kirkby Lonsdale was an inspiration for me, and it can be for you, too. Come to Illuminate 2026 and find out how!”
Festival Highlights
Rum Ragged
2021 JUNO Award Nominees, Rum Ragged, showcase the folk music of their home, the Eastern Canadian island of Newfoundland, in a hotly anticipated performance at St Mary’s on Sunday 8 Feb.
With a reverence for their roots and a creative, contemporary edge, this young band incorporate bouzouki, fiddle, bodhran, banjo, guitar and button accordion performances in their repertoire, delighting audiences with their signature brand of Newfoundland folk.
The combination of striking vocal harmonies, virtuosic musicianship and captivating storytelling gives concert-goers an experience they won’t soon forget. Rum Ragged have performed at some of the world’s premier folk, Celtic and roots venues all while managing to record four acclaimed, award-winning studio albums.
Join us for what promises to be a memorable evening!
Poco Besos
Join us for a Valentine’s night to remember as we invite you to slip your dancing shoes on and swing to the seductive rhythms of Poco Besos!
This dynamic live band specialises in reimagining well-known chart hits through the vibrant rhythms and infectious grooves of Latin music. From pop anthems to timeless classics, Poco Besos bring a fresh energy that transforms familiar songs into something exciting, danceable and full of flair.
Expect a show bursting with rhythm: soaring horn lines, soulful vocals, percussion and a bass-driven groove that ties everything together. Each performance is designed not only to be heard but to be felt – music that lifts spirits and makes you tap your toes or dance!
The band’s talented line-up brings together a wealth of experience and musicianship:
Emma Williams – Vocals
Paul Froggatt – Saxophone & Flute
John Woodhouse – Saxophone & Flute
Paula Williams – Keys
Eddie Waring – Guitar
Matthew Black – Bass
Andy Smith – Drums
Robin Young – Percussion
Arrive at 7.30PM if you fancy joining in with (or watching!) a pre-concert dance taster session with dance pros John and Hannah Seddon aka SalsaXS. John and Hannah will show you some smooth moves and make sure you get the most from the evening ahead.
The band’s set will start at 8.30PM with a break at 9.15PM and a final set from 9.45 and 10.30PM.
The Game Show, Show
It’s the game show all about you…yes! YOU! Your hosts Ruth and Keith will be asking questions about St Mary’s and Kirkby Lonsdale and all of you are the contestants!
You can join in or sit back and enjoy the show, as the two combine your hometown’s history with its present day, whilst satirically commenting on the commercial world we all have to tackle to discover truths.
Jane Austen Abridged
Join us for Schoolhouse Production’s fun, fast-paced romp through the masterpieces of Jane Austen. Our plucky actors take on all of Austen’s beloved heroines, friends and love interests—complete with cuttiing social satire—in just 80 minutes.
It is a truth universally acknowledged that an audience in possession of high spirits must be in want of a ticket to this big-hearted comedy that will delight Janeites and newcomers alike.
“This show is a laugh-out-loud masterclass in comedy and education.” Voice Magazine
Murder at Gatsby Manor
The party is in full swing, sparkling wine and conversation flows, that is until someone puts a stopper on the soiree, as things take a turn for the worse!
Can you uncover which cocktail has packed a poisonous punch for a particular party goer? It’s a criminal caper that will keep you on your toes, can you catch the killer and avoid becoming a beautiful little fool?
Dress up, grab a bunch of friends and join us for the ultimate jazz-age murder mystery!
Additional Information: We’re expecting this event to be popular and are recommending everyone – including passholders – book tickets. If you want to come to this event with a group, please email Diane hello@stmaryevents.kirkbylonsdale.org to book a table for the evening.
Tickets can be purchased separately for individual events and will be on sale to the general public from 8th December 2025 at 9:00AM – Prices vary. If you woud like to see multiple events over the fortnight, an adult festival pass offers unbeatable value, granting access to a range of diverse experiences like cinema screenings, live performances, and our speakers programme. Enjoy seamless entry, exclusive content, and the flexibility to explore various events. It’s perfect for cultural enthusiasts, fostering creativity, entertainment, and learning—all in one convenient, cost-effective package. Valid for one adult 7th to 20th February 2026 – Please check out the calendar for all the day to day activities during the festival. Please note passholders can book ONE free ticket for each event.