Your update of what's happening in Harborough District  
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  Issue 41 January 2025  |  
 Welcome to our newsletter, your ultimate guide to the Harborough District! Whether you're a local resident or a curious tourist, there's something for everyone. Stay connected by following us on Instagram and Facebook for updates and community highlights.  
This is just a snapshot of events happening in Harborough District. Find a full list of events here and find out more about Harborough District at VisitHarborough.    |   
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 Waterways Wellbeing Walks
 |  Get active this winter with free, guided walks along scenic canals. Wistow Circular Wistow Rural Centre car park, LE8 0QF 23 January, 13 February 2025, 10:00–11:30 
Union Wharf, Market Harborough Union Wharf, Market Harborough 21 January, 4 February, 18 February 2025, 10:00–11:30 Relaxed short walks for adults aged 18+. Booking required (closes 24 hours before).  |  
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 Wistow Rural Centre |  
 Are you thinking about exploring different parts of the district? Famous for its summer maize maze, Wistow Rural Centre offers much more year-round. Set in beautiful countryside with free parking, it features a garden centre and florist, several independent gift shops, a fantastic café, deli, hair salon, wellbeing centre, art gallery and a charming model village. 
With something for everyone, Wistow Rural Centre is the perfect destination for an afternoon out.  |  
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 Bird on The Hand
 |  Experience the thrill of falconry at Bird on the Hand in Church Langton. Get hands-on with majestic birds of prey, including falcons, hawks, buzzards and owls, during half- or full-day experiences. Perfect for individuals, families (children 7+), and groups. You'll handle, fly and learn about these incredible creatures with expert falconers. No prior experience is needed, and all equipment is provided. With a money-back satisfaction guarantee, this unforgettable adventure offers a unique, back-to-nature experience that’s ideal for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.  |  
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 The Big Weekend - Leicester Comedy Festival |  
 Do you know that the annual Leicester Comedy Festival is returning in February? The Big Weekend is a fantastic way to experience a taste of the main festival in the Harborough District. From 12 to 16 February 2025, enjoy a variety of shows, including the popular Comedy 4 Kids, at venues across the district, including Foxton, Fleckney, Lutterworth and Market Harborough. Whether you're looking for family-friendly fun or an evening of laughter, The Big Weekend offers something for everyone. Don't miss out on this vibrant celebration of comedy!  |  
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 Cotesbach Educational Trust
 |  Looking for a fun and unique spot to visit on the west side of the district? The Cotesbach Educational Trust near Lutterworth is the perfect destination! From sourdough making and wassailing to wild food foraging and campfire cooking, their events are a hands-on adventure that bring history to life. Plus, their 15th-century family archive is a treasure trove of fascinating stories waiting to be discovered. There’s also a fantastic café to enjoy and free parking, making it an easy and enjoyable day out.  |  
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 What's On Events Calendar |  
 Looking for something fun to do? The Harborough District Events Calendar is your one-stop shop for everything happening in the area. From theatre shows and cinema screenings to village fairs, walks, town centre events, retail activities, craft workshops and kids’ trails, there’s always something exciting around the corner. 
The calendar is updated regularly, so be sure to bookmark it and share it with friends to keep the fun rolling! If you’re hosting an event, businesses and groups can email us at business@harborough.gov.uk to get your event featured. Stay in the know and make the most of what’s on in Harborough District!  |  
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 Great Bowden Music Fest
 |  Are you looking at events for later on in the year? Mark your calendars for the Great Bowden Music Fest, a must-visit cultural event in the Market Harborough area. Founded in 2014 by violinist and Artistic Director Christopher White, this festival offers a variety of high-quality concerts in genres ranging from classical and jazz to music theatre. Held in the beautiful St. Peter and St. Paul’s Church in Great Bowden, it’s the perfect setting for an unforgettable musical experience .This year's events include: 
Candlelight Concert: 17 May 2025 Great Bowden Music Fest: 3-6 July 2025  |  
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 Community Barn Dance |  
 Join the fun at the Community Barn Dance in Lutterworth on Friday, 31 January 2025, from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Lutterworth Town Hall. Enjoy high-energy folk music from The Rainbow Folk, with Lisa Heywood leading fun and inclusive barn dances. The event is open to all, with gender-free (LGBT+ inclusive) dance instructions, making it a welcoming experience for everyone. Doors open at 7:00 PM, with dancing from 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM, plus a 30-minute break. A bar will be available at the venue. Don’t miss out on this lively night of music and movement!  |  
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 Cafe 55 at Thurnby
 |  Cafe Fifty Five is a warm, dog-friendly space offering great coffee, food, and support for all. Partnering with local organisations, they provide services like the LOROS Bereavement Hub on Tuesdays, Activities Café and Digital Drop-In on Wednesdays, Toddler Storytime on Fridays, and the Memory Café on the last Thursday of each month. 
It’s a welcoming place for connection, support, and community.  |  
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 Recent HDC News |  
 Great Glen is set to benefit from a £1.1 million boost, thanks to funding allocated by Harborough District Council. The money, provided through Section 106 contributions from developers, will enhance local amenities. Great Glen Village Hall will receive £369,410.40 to refurbish the historic 125-year-old building, while Great Glen Parish Council will receive £748,143.16 to create a new community pavilion with accessible parking for sports and leisure activities. A plaque recognising the council’s support will be displayed at the projects.  |  
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  |  Did you know?
Gold medalist Lauren Henry, the 22-year-old rower from Lutterworth, will be honoured with the Freedom of the District at a special ceremony in May 2025. After winning gold for Team GB in the women’s quadruple sculls at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Lauren will receive the highest accolade from Harborough District Council, which is reserved for individuals with extraordinary achievements and a strong connection to the area. This recognition celebrates her outstanding success and her ties to the local community.
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 Here's just a snapshot of what's coming up in the district. 
Follow our socials for more up-to-date information.  |  
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 Date : 16 January 2025 Time : 7:30pm-9:30pm Place : St Andrews Church, Foxton, Leicestershire 
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 Date : 25 January 2025 Time : 9am-4pm Place : The Square, Market Harborough 
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 Date : 6 February 2025 Time : 9am-3pm Place :The Square, Market Harborough 
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 Great places to rest & relax  
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 Delicious local tastes & eateries  |  
 
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 Amazing attractions & great things to do  
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 Calling local event organisers! Tell us what's on and we'll help to promote.  
Email us For regular updates join us on social media.  |  
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