What Is The Time Well Spent Festival In Wakefield For Over 50s?

Sometimes it feels like the days just tick by, one after the other. But what if there was a whole month dedicated to making that time really count? This October, something special is happening across Wakefield. A brand-new event, the Time Well Spent Festival, is launching, and it’s all about connection, creativity, and a big dose of wellbeing. Think of it as a massive celebration, a whole programme of activities designed for people over 50s to try new things, meet new people, and just have a fantastic time. It's a chance to shake things up and focus on ageing well in a way that’s fun and full of life.

More than just a get-together

So, what’s the big idea? This isn't just about filling the calendar. The whole festival is built on the idea of fostering social connection and improving mental health. It’s a huge celebration of the older people in the community and the brilliant things they bring to the district. The organisers, which include Age UK Wakefield District and Wakefield Council, wanted to create something that shows appreciation and gives people a space to thrive. It’s all about improving the overall quality of life.

Cllr Hannah Appleyard, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Sport, puts it perfectly:

"Time Well Spent is about recognising the incredible contributions of older people in our district and creating spaces where they feel valued and connected. It’s a celebration of ageing well and living fully."

And that’s the key, isn’t it? It’s not about passing the time, but about living it. This festival is a chance to do exactly that, with a huge range of activities that cater to all sorts of interests. It’s a fantastic opportunity for cultural engagement and finding a new passion or rediscovering an old one.

A sneak peek at the programme

The full festival programme is packed with things to do throughout October. From lively performances to quiet, creative workshops, there’s a real mix. Imagine spending an afternoon getting stuck into some art and crafts, or perhaps learning about local heritage on a guided walk. The whole month is filled with activities designed to boost wellbeing and encourage active ageing.

The events are dotted all over the Wakefield district, so there’s likely something happening just around the corner. Here’s a little taste of what’s on offer:

• One Day at a Time: On Sunday 12th October, people can head over to the beautiful Nostell Priory for a free theatre performance. A bit of drama in a stunning setting – what’s not to love? A theatre performance like this is a great way to experience some culture.
• Forever Funky: Fancy a dance? On Thursday 16th October, from 12 pm to 4 pm, WX (Wakefield Exchange) is hosting a day disco. It's a chance to enjoy some classic tunes and show off some moves. A proper celebration of music and movement.
• Forever Fit: For those looking to get moving, an active ageing class is happening at Featherstone Sports Complex on Tuesday 28th October, from 11 am to 12 noon. It's a fun and friendly way to stay fit.

This is just a tiny snapshot, of course. The entire programme promises a rich variety of workshops, art sessions, heritage talks, and wellbeing activities. The goal is to create a sense of connection and community through shared experiences, making it a truly meaningful festival.

Making it easy for everyone

One of the best things about this festival is how much thought has gone into making sure everyone can take part. Worried about getting there? Many of the venues are accessible by public transport, making it simpler to get out and about without needing a car. A lot of planning has gone into the event to ensure that the experience is a good one for all older people.

There's also a real focus on inclusivity. The organisers have worked hard to ensure that the activities are suitable for people with different mobility or sensory needs. Nobody should feel left out. The point of the festival is connection, after all, and that means breaking down barriers that might stop someone from joining in. Whether it’s a workshop with clear instructions for those with hearing difficulties or a venue with step-free access, these details make a huge difference to the quality of life for many attendees.

The bigger picture for wellbeing

The Time Well Spent Festival is more than just a one-off event in October. It’s part of a much bigger plan to boost mental health and social connection across the entire Wakefield district. Loneliness can be a real problem, and initiatives like this are brilliant for bringing people together and building supportive communities. The festival acts as a catalyst for cultural engagement, encouraging people to explore the art, heritage, and creative spirit of their local area.

By offering a diverse programme of workshops, performances, and activities, the festival directly supports the idea of ageing well. It’s about staying active, both mentally and physically, and feeling like a valued part of the community. This celebration of the over 50s is a testament to the district's commitment to creating an environment where everyone, regardless of age, can lead a full and happy life. It’s all about spending time in a way that genuinely enriches the soul, promoting lasting wellbeing long after the festival is over.