Digi Fest 2026: Bringing the borough together through technology

Digi Fest 2026: Bringing the borough together through technology

One of Digital Wigan's key ambitions for 2026 was to create a large-scale community event that would celebrate the amazing support already taking place across the borough and showcase the organisations helping residents make the most of technology. The result was Digi Fest.

Designed as a celebration of community, technology and partnership working, Digi Fest brought together residents, local organisations, businesses and members of the Digital Communities Partnership for two events in Wigan and Leigh.

The vision was simple: create a welcoming space where people could discover the support available in their local area, try new technology, meet organisations face-to-face and learn about the many opportunities available across the borough.

The response exceeded expectations.

Across each event, more than 30 Digital Communities Partnership organisations came together to showcase the services, activities and support they provide. Residents had the opportunity to speak directly with local groups, ask questions and discover services they may never have known existed. Digi Fest wasn't just about providing information - it was about creating experiences.

Visitors were encouraged to get hands-on with technology through interactive activities including virtual reality experiences, retro gaming and on-the-day TechMate Tea Party support. The events created a fun and relaxed atmosphere where people of all ages could explore technology without feeling intimidated.

Hundreds of residents attended the events, with many spending time speaking to partner organisations, trying new activities and learning about ways technology can support everyday life. Whether it was receiving help with a smartphone, exploring virtual reality for the first time or discovering a local community group, there was something for everyone.

The events also provided an opportunity to celebrate the strength of the borough's Digital Communities Partnership. By bringing organisations together in one place, Digi Fest highlighted just how much support is available across Wigan and Leigh and demonstrated the value of working collaboratively to reach more residents.

For many attendees, Digi Fest was their first introduction to Digital Wigan and the TechMates programme. For others, it was an opportunity to reconnect with services they already knew and discover new opportunities within their communities.

Most importantly, Digi Fest showed that technology is at its best when it brings people together. The festivals created new connections, introduced residents to local support networks and helped organisations build stronger relationships with one another.

Following the success of both events, Digi Fest has established itself as a standout moment in the Digital Wigan calendar - a celebration of the people, partnerships and community spirit that continue to make Wigan Borough a great place to live, learn and connect.