Journeys Festival International 2021, the UK’s first festival of Sanctuary, will bring thousands of people together to explore cultures from around the globe in Leicester from 15 to 24 October. Over 20 creative organisations from all over the UK and 21 venues are working together to deliver the festival with the aim of improving community cohesion and inspiring hope and understanding through a series of events, exhibitions, film viewings and performances.
The festival will bring together, 20 artists ranging from as far as Syria, Iran and Zimbabwe are teaming up with UK and European artists to celebrate this creative and cultural exploration of global cultures, so visitors and locals can enjoy food and cultural activities from around the world.
Creative Director Lorna Fulton explains that “We aim to celebrate the people from the UK and all over the globe that come together and create our inspiring and unique communities. We want people to share and discover new art, new experiences and new cultures together with friends, neighbours and family, which is why we keep the majority of the festival free where we can.”
Brought to you in partnership with BID Leicester and Leicester Cathedral is, Where There is Light by Squidsoup, an audio-visual installation that brings people together to share a sense of connection and hope. Illuminated globes surround the audience in moving patterns and colours, while a sound track – created by members of sanctuary-seeking communities – shifts around the installation with mesmerising sights and sounds. This incredible installation can be experienced at Leicester Cathedral from 15-24 October.
The festival features films, food, exhibitions in- and outdoors, large scale projections, virtual reality experiences alongside performances and cultural experiences – giving us opportunities to explore and share together. From 15 -24 October across the city centre, communities are invited to join the festival team on their cultural and creative journey.
In addition to Journeys Festival International 2021, this half-term families can also take advantage of BID Leicester’s latest initiative, Leicester Restaurant Week, from 18 – 24 October. Shining a spotlight on some of the best eateries in Leicester, the week-long event will give locals and visitors alike the opportunity to try somewhere new or an excuse to head back to their favourite dining spot!
People can find Fixed Price menus at £10, £15 and £20 or special family menus to celebrate the fact that it’s half term, Leicester Restaurant Week will have something for everyone. So far, a number of restaurants have signed up to take part, including Orton’s Brasserie, Giggling Squid, Knight & Garter, Sonrisa, Chutney Ivy and The Globe.
BID Director, Simon Jenner, commented: “It’s an opportunity to shine the spotlight on all the amazing eateries in the city, as well as encouraging both locals and visitors alike to come into Leicester and celebrate its amazing foodie scene. With all the various offers set to be available, you could dine out every night of the week for less than £100!”
