The Cumbrian region has a national reputation for its vibrant annual arts festivals and events. Here are just a few of the festivals taking place this summer.

Prom Art

Sunday 30 July 2017, Sunday 27 August 2017 & Sunday 24 September (10am – 4pm)

This is the largest open-air arts and crafts fair in Cumbria offering up to 60 stalls selling a diverse range of wares including art, craft, homewares, jewellery, ceramics, wood, paintings, photographs, prints, candles and soaps. Visitors enjoy strolling along the pretty promenade at Grange-over-Sands, meeting the makers and taking refreshments along the way. Visit: www.promart.info

Lake District Summer Music

Saturday 29 July – Friday 11 August

Lake District Summer Music (LDSM) is an international arts festival based in the Southern Lake District with chamber music at its heart. Each year, LDSM hosts over 40 events in stunning, intimate venues in locations such as Kendal, Windermere, Ambleside, Grange-Over-Sands and Ulverston. Events include concerts by internationally-acclaimed artists from the classical music field, concerts in support of showcasing and nurturing emerging musical talent, unique collaborations with local societies, award-winning film screenings, world premieres, and many more. The organisers strive to ensure the annual programme is as inclusive and engaging as possible, and they are always looking to explore new territories, whether they be geographical or artistic. Visit: ldsm.org.uk

Lakes Artists Summer Exhibition

Saturday 29 August – Wednesday 6 September

The Lake Artists Society was founded in 1904 by artist W.G.Collingwood who was also secretary to the artist and social reformer, John Ruskin, who lived at Brantwood beside Coniston Water. The present elected membership is limited to 45 artists residing in the Lake District and every year they stage a six week long annual Summer Exhibition, which takes place in the New Hall Grasmere, attracting thousands of visitors every year.

The society encourages non-members to exhibit their paintings and sculpture and awards are given by local business sponsors and presented to artists of merit. Visit: www.lakeartists.org.uk

Potfest in the Pens

Friday 4, Saturday 5 & Sunday 6 August

Meet over 100 potters, get inspired and get involved as you enjoy the hustle and bustle of a potters' market. Established professional potters show their work alongside the next generation and there are free workshops taught by real potters. The interaction between potters and public is an important part of the show. As well as some demonstrations, there will be free hour-long classes for adults to encourage them to take their first steps in clay. Get inspired, get involved and be prepared for visual overload.

Throwing classes, kids ‘n clay corner, pottery tools, clay suppliers, kilns, and thousands of pots to choose from. The event is held under permanent cover at Skirsgill Auction Mart, Penrith – 100 yards west of junction 40 of the M6 motorway. Visit: potfest.co.uk

Lakes International Comic Art Festival

Friday 13 – Sunday 15 October

The Lakes International Comic Art Festival is the only event of its kind in the UK taking over the whole town of Kendal each October. Celebrating the amazing world of comic artists, creators and writers, some of the biggest names in comic art come to Cumbria with over 70 special guests from across the comic world. Watch live drawing demonstrations and films, visit exhibitions, follow comic trails, join in workshops and there’s a special Family Zone. Whether you’re a comic veteran, new to comics or just love seeing amazing artists at work, you can get your bearings at Kendal’s Brewery Arts Centre before heading off around the town. Visit: www.comicartfestival.com