Two of Cumberland’s events - the Carlisle Fireshow and the Taste Carlisle Food Festival – proved to be a sparkling successes, drawing thousands of visitors into the heart of the city and delivering a significant boost to the local economy.
The Carlisle Fireshow, held in Bitts Park on Saturday 1 November, marked its 36th year with a spectacular celebration of Cumberland’s maritime heritage. Organised by Cumberland Council in partnership with Merlin Fireworks Ltd, the free event drew an estimated 40,000 spectators who enjoyed a bonfire and more than 2,000 dazzling fireworks.
Visitor surveys confirmed the Fireshow’s popularity, with 95 per cent saying they would attend again and an exceptional Score of 87.8. The Fireshow generated an estimated £2.33 million for the local economy, with a return on investment of £24.55 for every pound spent, and almost three quarters of attendees said the event made them feel proud of Carlisle and Cumberland.
Running alongside the Fireshow was Taste Carlisle, which transformed the Cathedral grounds and the Greenmarket into a vibrant hub of food, drink and entertainment across the weekend of 1 and 2 November. Building on its success in 2024, the festival attracted more visitors from across Cumberland and beyond, with two thirds of attendees coming into the city centre specifically for the event.
Satisfaction levels were extremely high, with 97 per cent of visitors saying they would return to another Taste event. The festival generated an economic impact of £406,025, three times higher than the previous year, and delivered a return on investment of £11.60 for every pound spent. Visitors praised the quality of local produce, the free tasters, live music and family entertainment, and average spend per person almost doubled compared to 2024.
Cumberland Council commissioned Red Research to carry out independent evaluations of both the Carlisle Fireshow and the Taste Carlisle Food Festival.
The surveys and analysis provided detailed insights into visitor experiences, satisfaction levels, spending patterns and the wider economic impact of the events. This independent feedback helps the council to measure success, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that future programmes continue to deliver value for residents, businesses and visitors alike.
Together, the Carlisle Fireshow and Taste Carlisle Festival offered enjoyable experiences for residents and visitors, while supporting local businesses and encouraging people to spend more time in the city. Both events helped bring the community together and showed the value of investing in activities that celebrate Carlisle and Cumberland.
Both events were supported by the UK Government using UKSPF funding.