Kendal Calling, one of Cumbria’s greatest success stories, will be celebrated at an exclusive business networking event next month, as part of the build-up to its 20th anniversary this summer.

On Thursday, May 22, the LA23NET network will gather at The Old Fire Station in Penrith to enjoy LA23FEST, a special evening with Andy Smith, co-founder of Kendal Calling, director of From the Fields and the creative force behind other iconic events like Bluedot and Northern Lights Newcastle.

Helen Statham, director of Intro and organiser of the event said: “I can’t wait for the evening in Penrith. Andy will have plenty of stories to tell and there will be something for everyone, even if you’ve never actually been to Kendal Calling.

“Guests can look forward to a relaxed, festival-themed atmosphere — with food, drinks, and wristbands provided.

“All you need to bring is your best festival spirit.”

Andy will share the fascinating behind-the-scenes story of how Kendal Calling evolved from a grassroots gathering into one of the UK’s most celebrated festivals, bringing Mumford & Sons, Doves, The Streets, Primal Scream and many others to Cumbria.

He’ll reveal what it takes to build something that endures, the role of creativity in place-making, and the lessons he’s learned from two decades at the forefront of the UK events scene.

LA23FEST is at The Old Fire Station, Bridge Lane, Penrith, from 5.45pm to 8.14pm on Thursday, May 22.

Tickets and more details can be found here