A summer festival atmosphere will take over Carlisle city centre on Saturday 25 July as the Teenage Market returns - showcasing the talents of young people from across Cumberland.
All stalls and performances will be delivered by young entrepreneurs and performers. Visitors will enjoy a day of shopping, entertainment and creativity in the heart of the city.
Organised by Cumberland Council, the event will feature 16 stalls and 5 performances by young people aged between 11 and 19. Shoppers will have the opportunity to browse a wide variety of locally made products, including handmade gifts, crafts and sweet treats, while supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs, makers and creatives.
The Teenage Market provides young people aged 8 to 25 with a unique opportunity to test a business idea, develop valuable business skills and gain hands-on experience in creating, marketing and selling their products in a supportive, risk-free environment.
Helen Tickner, Coordinator of the Teenage Market for Cumberland Council, said:
"This year marks the third birthday of Cumberland Council’s Teenage Market, and I am incredibly proud to see how the initiative has grown. Over the past three years, it has provided more and more young people with the opportunity to take their first steps into business, showcase their creativity, and build their confidence as performers.
"Many of our traders have been with us since the very beginning, and it has been fantastic to watch not only their businesses develop, but also their confidence grow. What has been particularly special is seeing the supportive community they have created, encouraging and mentoring new traders and helping each other succeed.
"If you’ve visited a Teenage Market before and thought about having a stall or performing but weren’t quite sure whether to take that first step, I would encourage you to come along on Saturday. Speak to members of the Teenage Market team and chat with the talented young people taking part. That visit could be the start of your own journey and the first step towards turning your business or performance ambitions into a reality.”
Staff from Cumberland Council’s Family Help, Partnerships and Youth Justice teams will be attending the Teenage Market to showcase a range of opportunities and support available for young people and families. Visitors can find out more about the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme, which provides free activities and healthy meals for eligible children during school holidays, volunteer opportunities within Cumberland Family Hubs and the development of the new Cumberland Youth Strategy. Young people will also be encouraged to share their views through the Youth Matters survey and learn how they can get involved with Cumberland Youth Voice, helping to shape services and decisions that affect their communities.
The Teenage Market will be open from 10am to 3.30pm on Saturday 25 July. Shoppers are encouraged to come along, enjoy the atmosphere and support the area's young talent. Cash payments are preferred.