Crowds have gathered in the South Lakes this weekend for a Christmas festival packed with music, entertainment, and festive spirit.
The 26th Ulverston Dickensian Christmas Festival is taking over the market town on November 29 and 30, transforming it into a bustling Victorian wonderland.
The festival features brass bands, street performers, as well as stalls, food, and costumed parades.
Kathryn and Ronnie Tate, who live in Ulverston and have attended the festival for 20 years, said: "We absolutely love it.
"It's a great way to support the town and it's good fun.
"Our favourite thing about the festival is dressing up in Victorian clothes and being a bit different to normal.
Kathryn and Ronnie Tate dressed up for Ulverston Dickensian Festival (Image: Newsquest)
"We've looked around all the stalls, it's lovely, it's just what Ulverston needs.
"It's fantastic, the live acts and musicians add to it.
"It's not quite as busy as normal.
"Next year, we hope to see another Dickensian with good weather, like today."
The couple dressed up for the occasion and enjoyed the atmosphere in the town centre.
The festival, established in 2000, has become one of Ulverston’s most popular annual events.
A large crowd gathered to hear music from BLAST Furness, a band started by Sue Gill and John Fox and now approaching its 30th anniversary.
Graeme Buckley, who has played with the band for 12 years, and Rose Gallop, a member for 15 years, said: "I don't think we've ever missed a Dickensian.
"It's a fantastic gig for us, it's usually our last one of the year so it's always a bit of a celebration.
BLAST Furness members, Graeme Buckley and Rose Gallop, were among the musicians who played at Ulverston Dickensian Festival (Image: Newsquest)
"People come from all over for Dickensian, dress up and enjoy the music and stalls.
"It's a great way to get ready for Christmas and a pleasure to take part in.
"Every year, we see old friends and new.
"It's really joyful to be part of, we love it."
Stallholders also shared positive feedback from the weekend.
Leaf TRNR, a smoothie business based in Ulverston, took part in this year’s festival for the first time.
Jett Morando, who was running the stall, said: "It's been busy since we started.
"This is my first Dickensian, it's amazing, every different type of person is out here enjoying it.
"Everyone's been so nice."
The company, which started trading in July, was founded by Olivia Dacosta, who makes smoothies by blending dark greens with fruit.
Jett Morando at Ulverston Dickensian Festival (Image: Newsquest)
The greens are sourced from Growing Well, a mental health charity based in Kendal, and the drinks are made fresh each morning.
Visitors enjoyed exploring the range of stalls, listening to live music, drinking mulled wine, and embracing the spirit of the festival.
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