Bay DrumFest

MORECAMBE — Get ready to feel the beat! To celebrate a decade of electrifying performances, Lancaster-based samba outfit Samba Espirito is launching a brand-new, FREE rhythm extravaganza event: Bay DrumFest.

On 26 September 2026, Morecambe Promenade will ignite with vibrant colors, high-octane movement, and thunderous beats as twelve powerhouse bands from across the North West gather for a landmark 10th-anniversary celebration.

Known for bringing infectious energy to the front of iconic local parades—including Armed Forces Day, Baylight, and the Coronation Carnivals—Samba Espirito is now taking centre stage to host their own major event. Karen Dickinson, Co-Founder and Director of Samba Espirito, added: "Bay DrumFest will be a celebration of community, creativity, and wellbeing through music and movement. Drumming brings people together, keeps us active, and gives people of all ages a chance to be part of something joyful. We’re incredibly grateful to all our sponsors for supporting us as we mark our 10th anniversary, and we’re excited to plan for our next ten years."

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

Bay DrumFest brings together a dynamic fusion of samba rhythms, Afro-Brazilian beats, and steel band melodies, backed by eye-popping performances from stilt walkers and dance troupes:

• 1:00 PM – The Drum Trail: The action kicks off at the Stone Jetty, with 11 bands snaking down the Promenade in a continuous showcase of music and movement throughout the afternoon.

• 3:00 PM - Bay DrumFest Workshop with Baybeat Street Band: Come and shake your groove thing with Ben McCabe upstairs in the Kings Arms. Free tickets on Eventbrite here! https://share.google/av3ALGJsHluEbKqfF

• 6:50 PM – Grand Sunset Parade: The celebration culminates in a massive, spectacle-filled evening parade heading back along the seafront.

FULL BAND LINEUP The festival unites musical talent from across the region:

• Local Favourites: Samba Espirito, Baybeat Street Band, Batala Lancaster

• Cumbria: Bjamba, Boom Dang, Milnthorpe Steel Band

• West Yorkshire: Banda na Rua, Valley Beats

• Chorley: SambAfriq

• Oldham: Jubacana • Warrington: Batida Rio

POWERED BY LOCAL SUPPORT This monumental community event is made possible through funding support from Morecambe Town Council and key sponsorship from local partners:

• Morecambe BID

• Lingwood Security Management

• The Kings Arms

• The Midland Hotel

• 3R Foundation and Charity Shop

"For ten years Samba Espirito have delivered high-energy performances as an important part of countless Morecambe festivals and events," said Cllr Lee Bradbury, Chairperson of Morecambe Town Council’s Festivals, Sponsorships and Events Committee.

"The Town Council is delighted to help them deservedly take centre-stage on this occasion, as they mark ten years of inspiring and uplifting community music-making."

EVENT DETAILS AT A GLANCE

• Event: Bay DrumFest (10th Anniversary Celebration)

• Date: Saturday, 26 September 2026

• Time: Starts 1:00 PM (Stone Jetty) | Evening Parade 6:50 PM

• Location: Morecambe Promenade

• Admission: FREE