The Anne Lister Memorial Weekend will return to Halifax this autumn, marking 185 years since her death with a programme of events across the town.
Running from Friday 19th to Sunday 21st September, the weekend will offer opportunities to reflect on Anne’s life as well as to celebrate her lasting influence. Anne Lister, who was born on 3rd April 1791 and died on 22nd September 1840, left behind more than five million words in her diaries. Her story reached international audiences through Sally Wainwright’s BBC/HBO drama Gentleman Jack.
The weekend will begin with a formal memorial service at Halifax Minster on Friday 19 September from 7.30pm to 9pm. On Sunday morning, flowers will be laid at the Anne Lister sculpture in the Piece Hall at 9.30am.
Guided walks, exhibitions and community events will take place throughout Halifax. A new addition for 2025 is a guided herb walk in the grounds of Shibden Hall on Sunday 21st September. Led by local herbalist Kerri Daly and Anne Lister researcher Lynn Shouls, the walk will explore the garden’s medicinal plants and Anne’s interest in botany and remedies. Booking is essential.
Later that day, a free torchlit memorial procession will set off from Shibden Hall at 4pm, taking a gentle route through the grounds and down to the Mere lakeside.
Cllr Danielle Durrans, Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Services and Communities, said: “We’re proud of our heritage and as one of the key themes of our Vision 34, we want to celebrate our history and the people and places that have made Calderdale so special.
“It really is remarkable that 185 years after Anne Lister died, her life story and legacy is still inspiring people all over the world, and we’re delighted to be able to share the programme for the Anne Lister Memorial Weekend 2025.
“Although the memorial weekend has a more reflective tone than the birthday celebrations which happen every April, the many and varied events over the weekend will also include uplifting community events.
“Everyone is very welcome to join in, either with the ticketed events or come along and experience the many free opportunities available.”
Shibden Hall will be open to visitors during the weekend, and nearby Bankfield Museum will display outfits from Gentleman Jack as part of its Costume Drama exhibition. Halifax Minster will remain open for quiet reflection, while the Anne Lister Hub at Northgate House will provide space to relax and access information.
More details, including full listings and opening times, are available at annelisterofhalifax.co.uk and culturedale.co.uk.
