Stockton set to host UK’s premiere Deaf Empowering Festival

The first festival of its kind in the Tees Valley and Stockton, the Deaf Empowering Festival, will take place on Saturday, August 8 at Egglescliffe School from 10am.

Organised by the Deaf Empowering Network (DEN), the event promises a full day of workshops, live shows, games, food, and artisan stalls.

Craig Jones, chief executive of DEN, said: “As CEO, I am incredibly proud to see the Deaf Empowering Festival come to life – the first deaf-led festival of its kind in Stocktonand the Tees Valley.

“This is a landmark moment for our region and a true celebration of Deaf culture, empowerment and community.

“It brings Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of hearing people, children of Deaf adults, alongside parents of Deaf children, right to the heart of where they belong: visible, valued and celebrated.

“This is more than a festival; it is a powerful movement, breaking barriers, raising awareness and driving real inclusion across our communities.”

DEN is a deaf-led organisation with a mission to enable better life choices for Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of hearing people.

The festival aims to strengthen community ties, improve access to information, and foster a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere.

A host of deaf celebrities and guests will join the day, including TV star and celebrity cook Yvonne Cobb, comedian Gavin Lilley, and England/GB Deaf Footballer and Captain, Jamie Clarke.

Visitors can also enjoy an interactive session with Julie, founder of BSL Animal Care, on animal health and first aid, BSL song performances, and BSL taster sessions.

Family-friendly activities include a bouncy castle, basketball shoot-out and penalty shoot-out, and more.

Emergency services such as Cleveland Fire Brigade and Cleveland Police will be present, with police offering a drone demonstration.

Health charity SignHealth will also be offering information.

The festival is sponsored by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cleveland.

Entry is just £1, payable by cash on the day, and includes a raffle ticket.

Anyone wishing to attend is encouraged to book in advance via www.bit.ly/DeafFestival.