The first Prestfest event was held in October 2011, followed by a larger version last year in May, and this year is expected to be the biggest and most spectacular yet. Preston has managed to avoid many of these problems associated with nightlife in some parts of the UK, winning the Purple Flag award in recognition of this.
This is the city and town centre equivalent of the Blue Flag award for beaches, and Prestfest aims to capitalise on the honour by raising awareness of what the city has on offer. The local Business Improvement District developed the idea for the festival and it is hoped that entertainment venues and other Preston firms will see significant financial benefits from it again in 2014.
So far, more than 50 of the venues in the area have committed to hosting events during the three-day run and businesses like printing companies in Preston are also guaranteed to be involved, as they will be needed to supply all the Prestfest promotional flyer and banner printing.
Jessica Toomey, the general manager of a city centre comedy club, and Preston by Night chairperson, said:
“We held a Prestfest weekend in May 2013, to great acclaim, boosting footfall and trade in many quarters; this time it will be even better and as an economy, we are really excited.”
Prestfest will run from January 30 to February 1.