Hexham Abbey is marking its milestone 1,350th anniversary with the Festival of Flame.
The festival launches the abbey’s anniversary celebrations with a programme inspired by its past on Friday 2 and Saturday 3 February
At the helm of the festival is Queen’s Hall Arts in collaboration with the Hexham Community Partnership.
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It is made possible by over £10,000 of funding from the North of Tyne Combined Authority and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, in partnership with Historic England, Hexham Town Council and Northumberland County Council.
2024 festival highlights include Illuminated Sheep by artist Deepa Mann-Kler on the Cloister Lawn, a Viking Fire Garden by artist Leanne Shipley and an interactive community artwork titled Stars for Eternity.
Original and live classical music performances from Simeon Walker and Michael Haynes will be performed inside the Abbey, giving attendees the chance to soak up the music while viewing the festival installations.
Organiser Jez Light from Hexham Community Partnership, said: "We're delighted that Festival of Flame will be launching a year-long programme of anniversary events at Hexham Abbey.
"And, running across two nights for the first time, this year's event is our biggest yet.
"There really is something for everyone, and we're delighted that the local community will once again enjoy an exciting programme free of charge."
Mayor of North of Tyne, Jamie Driscoll, said: "The North East has a rich history and Hexham Abbey is one of the jewels in Northumberland’s crown.
"The Festival of Flame will be a great celebration of our heritage and culture free and open to all.
"It’s just one of the many events we are supporting to boost tourism and enrich communities.
"I want to ensure that everyone has access to art and culture - from ballet to bingo, ice skating to illuminated sheep."
Attendees can enjoy a drink and a bite at the Abbey Refectory or sample toasted marshmallows and a Fire & Dough Pizza.
The festival opens each night at 5pm, with last entry at 8pm.
No tickets are needed, and everyone is welcome, but dogs must be kept outside on short leads.
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