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Michael Porter Photography

19 amazing pictures as Animate Preston turns one with packed family fun day despite winter weather

Hundreds of families flocked to the Harris Quarter on Friday 20 February to celebrate the first birthday of Animate Preston, the city’s premier entertainment destination.

Visitors enjoyed a full day of circus skills workshops, classic funfair games, live music from DJ Danny Bee, and appearances from Spider-Man, Hulk, and Elsa.

Free goodie bags, complimentary cinema tickets and a giant Wagamama Bento Box activity added to the excitement, while the Madam Mayor of Preston joined in the festivities.

Tenants reported a surge in visitors, highlighting the venue’s growing popularity as a hub for dining, leisure and family fun in the heart of the city.

The Madam Mayor of Preston joined in the celebrations and said: “It was great to see so many families turning out to celebrate Animate’s first birthday, even the rain could not dampen the mood. I had a great time meeting visitors, chatting with the staff and even bumping into the Hulk. I may not have mastered juggling just yet, but I gave it a good go. A fabulous event, and I am looking forward to Animate building on a successful year.”

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