Colne 70s Fest – A Groovy Blast from the Past!

Get ready to dust off those flares, iron out your best polyester shirts, and lace up your platform shoes, as Colne takes a journey back in time to one of the most iconic decades in history! This September, Colne will be transformed into a hub of all things retro, as we proudly present the Colne 70s Fest, a day-long celebration that promises to transport visitors into the colorful, free-spirited, and musically-charged atmosphere of the 1970s.

On Saturday, 28th September, Colne Town Centre will become a haven for nostalgia lovers, music enthusiasts, vintage collectors, and families looking for a fun-filled day out. Whether you’re a disco devotee, a fan of classic rock, or simply want to experience the best of the 70s vibe, this event offers something for everyone. Colne BID Manager Aneesa said “We'll be celebrating the decade with music from that time, classic cars and speciality foods all across the town centre! Colne saw a lot of changes during this decade, both positive and negative for some but it was certainly an important one for us. The building of the library, the market hall and the decade Pendle Borough was formed too!"

With a wide array of activities and entertainment spread throughout the day, here’s a taste of what’s in store:

🎨 Artisan Market with Independent Street
Browse an eclectic range of handmade goods, locally crafted products, and unique treasures at this vibrant market. From retro-inspired jewellery and art pieces to delicious street food, the Artisan Market is the perfect place to explore and indulge your senses. Whether you're on the lookout for a special gift or simply fancy a browse, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.

🎥 70s Film Footage in the Market Hall
Step into a time machine and watch iconic 70s film clips that capture the magic and energy of the decade. The Market Hall will showcase some of the most memorable moments from 70s cinema, bringing a wave of nostalgia for cinephiles and curious visitors alike. This is a chance to relive those golden movie moments and witness the charm of the 70s on the big screen.

📸 Photo Exhibition by Lancashire Archives at Colne Library
Take a visual trip down memory lane with an incredible collection of photographs from the 1970s. Curated by Lancashire Archives, this exhibition at Colne Library will showcase candid snapshots, iconic moments, and daily life in Colne during the 70s. From fashion to community events, this exhibition paints a vivid picture of what life was like in our town during this unforgettable decade.

🛍️ So Retro Events Vintage Market at the Town Hall
Calling all vintage lovers! The So Retro Vintage Market at Colne’s Town Hall will be a treasure trove of memorabilia, fashion, vinyl records, home decor, and much more. Whether you're hunting for a unique piece to add to your collection or just want to browse the retro delights on display, this market is sure to offer plenty of surprises and hidden gems.

🚗 Classic Cars Display
Step back in time with a stunning display of classic cars that will evoke memories of the 70s automotive era. Car enthusiasts and casual visitors alike will appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of these vintage vehicles. A perfect photo opportunity, the classic car showcase will bring an added touch of nostalgia to the streets of Colne.

🛵 Mod Bike Ride Through
Keep an eye out for the stylish mod bikers as they ride through the streets of Colne, bringing with them the iconic culture of the mod movement. Their vintage scooters, sharp attire, and unmistakable style will be an unmissable part of the festival experience, adding even more flavour to the 70s theme.

🎶 Live Music Across Colne
The sound of the 70s will fill the air as multiple venues across Colne host live music throughout the day. Catch performances at The Bees Knees, The Duke of Lancaster, The Dressers, Boyce's Barrel, and Mojo's of Colne, where local artists will perform a range of 70s classics from disco to rock and everything in between. Each venue will provide a unique musical experience, giving you the chance to explore Colne while enjoying top-notch live entertainment.

In addition to all these exciting events, festival-goers can take part in the Colne Clamber Pub Walk. This fun-filled pub crawl will take you through Colne’s finest pubs, with all registration fees going towards supporting Pendleside Hospice. It’s a great way to enjoy the local nightlife while contributing to a fantastic cause!

And for those who love to dress up, we’ve got an extra treat – £70 in Come to Colne Vouchers are up for grabs for the best 70s outfit! Channel your inner 70s fashionista, whether it’s bell bottoms, glittery jumpsuits, or bold prints, and you could be walking away with a fabulous prize.

The culmination of a target set out by Colne BID with Aneesa saying “When the bid was first formed back on 2018, we pledged to bring an additional 4 events to the calendar every year. So far we've delivered a soapbox challenge, the WinterBloom Light Festival and The Colne Food and Drink Festival. We are thrilled that we are able to deliver on our promise of a fourth event.... That 70s Festival!”

So, mark your calendars, grab your friends and family, and join us in Colne for an unforgettable day of celebration, music, culture, and fun! Colne 70s Fest is set to be the highlight of the year, and we can’t wait to see you there for a day that promises to be full of nostalgia and joy.