On Saturday the 27th of September, over two hundred young people from across Cumbria gathered at the Pencil Factory in Keswick for a day of fun, connection, food, and faith at The Big One. The Christian event, organised annually by the Network Youth Church, provides a safe and welcoming space where young people can come together to build relationships, make lasting memories, and explore discipleship in new and creative ways.

Many activities were on offer throughout the day. For the adrenaline-seekers a warehouse filled with giant inflatables, go-karts, bungee trampolines, laser tag, archery, and outdoor sports, evoked many laughs and healthy competition. Additionally, the crafts tent was packed with a variety of arts and crafts, attracting a large volume of young people seeking to showcase their creative talents and catch-up with friends in a chill, chatty atmosphere. In the café space, young people had the option to play video games, table football and pool, board games and cards, or gather a team to take on the Big Quiz. Young people flocked to the café throughout the day, purchasing candy floss and popcorn in time to watch a movie, Flushed Away (2006), and hot dogs, pizza, nachos, and toasties before heading to the breakout seminars: Café Worship, Faith and Art, and Chill Church. This year, the breakout seminars looked at the theme of ‘Worries’ and considered different anxieties in our own lives, before looking at how God consistently loves and sustains us.

This is the Big One’s third consecutive year of running. Andy Ward, a co-organiser of the event, said: “This year was a huge success in terms of both growth and reach. We had young people attending from every deanery in Cumbria with their churches and youth groups, coming together for a day of fun, faith, and laughter as part of God’s wider family.”

Young people from Penrith Network Youth Church described the event, one saying: “There was something for everyone this year at the Big One! The general vibe of the day was so loving and welcoming from the moment we got off the bus. As a young Christian living in Cumbria, it is always amazing going to events like the Big One, where I am reminded that I am not alone but a part of something much bigger.”