Cathedral festival set to highlight environmental sustainability

Derby Cathedral is set to welcome a ground-breaking LEGO art installation this summer as part of a festival highlighting the importance of environmental sustainability.

Brick by Brick – Building a Solid Foundation will run from Friday 25 July to Thursday 21 August.

At the heart of the festival will be a stunning, first-of-its-kind, model of Derby Cathedral and the surrounding city centre, crafted entirely from LEGO bricks by renowned artist Brick This, showcasing local landmarks and businesses.

But the event is more than just bricks and mortar. A wide range of interactive activities, talks, and workshops will be on offer.

Families, schools, tourists and community members will be invited to build solar-powered LEGO vehicles, windmills, and more – connecting learning with play and encouraging future-facing, environmentally conscious thinking.

The Dean of Derby, The Very Revd Dr Peter Robinson said: “We’re excited to host an event that merges art, education, and sustainability in such an engaging way.

“Brick by Brick will bring people of all ages into the Cathedral space, fostering conversation and creativity around our journey to Net Zero.”

The festival is expected to attract thousands of visitors, following the success of previous installations such as Peace Doves, Gaia, and the Museum of the Moon.

Events of this kind typically contribute to a significant increase in local footfall and boost the city’s visitor economy, supporting nearby businesses and enhancing Derby Cathedral’s role as a cultural hub.

Entry to the cathedral during the event will be free, with a suggested donation of £3 per person.

A charge may apply for some events and activities, raising vital funds towards the cathedral’s goal of reaching carbon neutrality.

The event has already attracted backing from businesses, including Ecclesiastical, Rothera Bray Solicitors , Cloud Next and The Iron Ram.

The cathedral is keen to hear from more business who would like to support the event.

For more information about sponsorship opportunities contact head of operations Jessica Kilmurray at jessica@derbycathedral.org.

For more information about Brick by Brick visit http://www.derbycathedral.org/brickbybrick.