Lincolnshire Day

origins and history

The observance traces its chosen date to 1 October 1536, the start of the Lincolnshire Rising. During this historical conflict, local Catholics rebelled against Henry VIII and his establishment of the Church of England. Centuries later, in 2006, the county day was officially inaugurated. Organisers determined the date through a public vote involving readers of Lincolnshire Life magazine and listeners of BBC Radio Lincolnshire.

how it is kept

People from the county, who are traditionally nicknamed yellowbellies, participate in various community activities on 1 October. Many people choose to wear bright yellow clothing in honour of their regional moniker. Workplaces, offices, and community centres display the county flag. In addition, local businesses, regional broadcasters, and council authorities coordinate public gatherings, cultural promotions, and special events to bring both current residents and former locals together.

food and local pride

The day also highlights the rural county's culinary traditions and notable heritage. Celebrations often feature local specialities such as Lincolnshire sausages, Poacher cheese, and ales from Batemans Brewery. Residents also reflect on wider points of local pride, including the Red Arrows aerobatics team, Lincoln Cathedral, and rare historic treasures such as the county's original copies of Magna Carta and the Charter of the Forest.

How Lincolnshire Day is kept

Celebrations take place each year on 1 October. Local residents and people living elsewhere wear yellow outfits in tribute to the county's traditional nickname. People decorate offices, businesses, and public spaces with Lincolnshire flags. Community groups, local broadcasters, councils, and independent organisations stage public events, promotions, and cultural gatherings to highlight county history, local produce, and community achievements.

When and where

The county day is observed annually on 1 October. The date was selected by a public poll in 2006 to commemorate the anniversary of the 1536 Lincolnshire Rising.

The observance is kept throughout the rural county of Lincolnshire in the United Kingdom, as well as by former residents who have relocated elsewhere.

What Lincolnshire Day means

Lincolnshire Day represents regional pride, identity, and collective memory. By marking a significant 16th-century uprising, it acknowledges the county's independent spirit. Wearing yellow reflects the traditional yellowbelly moniker, uniting current inhabitants and those who have moved away in a shared celebration of local heritage, landscapes, and achievements.

Questions people ask about Lincolnshire Day

See also

Beating RetreatA military ceremony of music and drill held at sunset to mark the end of a day or a festival.Lord Mayor's ShowAn annual civic parade in London marking the inauguration of the Lord Mayor with a procession and pageantry.Victory in Europe DayThe day Nazi Germany's surrender was accepted, marking the end of the war in EuropeBuy Nothing DayAn annual 24-hour pause on shopping to protest consumerism and overconsumption

Good reading and sources

• Lincolnshire Day on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Traditions differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-07.