WHETHER you're a comic art addict or just love exceptional art and storytelling, The Lakes International Comic Art Festival is arriving in Kendal from tomorrow (Friday) to Sunday with events, workshops and activities being held at various venues around the town. There will be more than 70 of the best comic artists, writers and creators from all over the world, including cartoonists Graham Dury and Simon Thorp, creators of Viz; Robbie Morrison, best known for his work on 2000 AD; Frank Quitely, Glaswegian comic work includes new X men, We3 and All Star Superman as well as Mikiko Claire Ponczeck, German-Japanese comic book artist (pictured artwork). This family-friendly festival also hosts activities for young, budding artists and comic art fans. Go to www.comicartfestival.com for your tickets and programme.

STEAMPUNK is back and presents A Splendid Day Out, smaller than its summer sister but just as relative! The assemblage of high gloss, impeccably formed events and activities takes place on Saturday & Sunday (October 13 & 14) on Morecambe promenade, The Platform as well as other venues. The cornucopia of events, organised by The League of Splendid, includes a marvellous itinerant Steampunk artisan market, the wit and charm of Lady Violet Hugh, Victor Sierra will enthral and enchant the imagination and Professor Elemental will have you bopping in the aisles! Tickets and programme can be found at www.asplendiddayout.com.

Ticket prices vary depending on event.

SHOWCASING a diversity of talent at The Ambleside & District Art Society's Annual Exhibition by members that include Sally Kindness (Watercolour: Hay Bales), Jennifer Moffat and Mandy Dorman. The exhibition takes place from Wednesday (October 17) to Sunday (October 28), at the Ambleside Parish Centre. The society began in 1974 and has around 100 members of all abilities. Exhibition open 10am-5pm daily; from 2.30pm Sundays and closes 2.30pm on the final day.

Donations welcome.

SHAKESPEARE at The Tobacco Factory return to Lancaster's The Dukes with Henry V. A young monarch emerges from his wild youth with a sense of purpose and adventure, and as he wages war on France with devastating efficiency, what cost must there be made in the name of victory? A thrilling examination of the nature of power, playing from Tuesday to Saturday (October 16-20, 7.30pm). Wednesday & Saturday matinees at 2pm.

Box office 01524-598500. Tickets £19.50-£17.50.

AMERICAN singer-songwriter and side man to Al Stewart, Dave Nachmanoff, will perform at Brigsteer’s The Wheatsheaf Inn, tomorrow (Friday, 8.30). In support and as special guests is Plumhall, aka Michelle Plum and Nick B. Hall, a Yorkshire-based duo whose award-winning self-penned songs have won them plaudits from the music press and well-known music acts in the UK and beyond.

Tickets available via www.individualinns.co.uk/giftshop.html Tickets: Supper & Concert (2-course) £30, sittings from 5.30pm-7.15pm.

APPLE & Fruit Weekend takes place on Saturday & Sunday (October 13 & 14) at Beetham Nurseries. This fruity-filled event includes apple tastings, growing trips, family-friendly activities, live music and so much more. You can also explore the local food market, bring your own apples for juicing and enter the infamous Apple Pie contest! Open from 9am-4.30pm.

Further details at www.beethamnurseries.co.uk/events/the-great-beetham-apple-pie-competition Free event.