Romans return! Castleford to go back in time as Roman Festival returns this weekend
Castleford will go back in time this weekend as the town’s beloved annual Roman Festival returns.
Taking place in Castleford town centre on Saturday, May 30, from 10am to 4pm, the free, family friendly festival celebrates the town’s Roman past.
This year, visitors can discover the rich heritage of ‘Lagentium’ (what the Romans called Castleford), through hands‑on activities, live entertainment, and immersive historical experiences.
Coun Lukasz Borcz, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Sport, said: “This is a great chance for local families to enjoy a fun, free day out and learn a bit about Castleford’s Roman past.
"There’s something for everyone – from hands‑on activities and crafts to shows and tours – so I’d really encourage people to come along and get involved.”
Festival‑goers can explore the bustling Roman Market, watch as a carpenter showcases the craftsmanship of Roman woodworking, and join drop-in guided walking tours, lead by Castleford’s own Roman Legionary, Marcus Valerius Calvinus.
Furthermore, families can enjoy the engaging theatre performance ‘A Day in Lagentium’, young archaeologists have the chance to dig for treasures with Pontefract Young Archaeologists Club, and visitors can design and craft their own Roman coin to take home.
There will also be plenty of fringe activity across the town.
The Castleford Heritage Trust will be running a stone flour milling activity, the team at Riverside Paint a Pot will be offering Roman-themed craft activities inside Castleford Market and Castleford Museum will be hosting Roman crafts alongside a chance to meet some time-travelling ancient Romans.