FEAST! Picnic by the Lake Festival

For free summer events, this has got to be one of the best. The FEAST! Picnic by the Lake Festival is a three day performance extravaganza that's been held annually in Platt Fields Park for several years now. This summer's event, which is held on 5-7 June, is the last one for the foreseeable future, so make the most of it while you can.

It's a little bit special, not just because it's free, but because it turns Platt Fields into a magical, mysterious wonderland for the three days that it's here. Go along with a picnic and settle down to watch the performances as the daylight fades. Candles and night-lights appear amongst the banners, flags and decorations. It's very atmospheric.

The performances and shows this year come from Germany, Belgium, France, India and Egypt, and there'll be leading acts from the UK with a number of world premières. The highlights include Indian circus, Egyptian music, Eastern European rhythms, French comedy, fire-blazing tango, spectacular acrobatics and dreamy evening illuminations. There's games, workshops and activities for all ages, and Friday and Saturday evening will culminate with a dazzling finale.

Feast! Picnic by the Lake takes place on Friday 5 June from 7.30pm until 11pm, on Saturday 6 June from 2pm till 11pm, and on Sunday 7 June from 1pm until 6pm. To find out more, go to www.streetsahead.org.uk