Rochdale, a vibrant town in Greater Manchester, is experiencing a summer like no other. With the spotlight firmly on its rich cultural heritage, innovative community events, and headline-making developments, Rochdale is making waves both locally and nationally. This article explores the most searched and trending news from Rochdale, offering an engaging look at a town that is both steeped in history and buzzing with new energy.
Rochdale Named Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture
Rochdale has been officially crowned Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture for 2025, marking a year-long celebration that has already transformed the town’s atmosphere. The award, granted by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, recognises Rochdale’s creative spirit, diverse arts scene, and historical significance as the birthplace of the co-operative movement. The festivities began with a spectacular nature-themed parade, drawing over 2,500 people to Rochdale Town Hall Square. An outdoor gallery, featuring 24 new pieces of public art, has also opened, inviting residents and visitors to engage with local creativity.
The Town of Culture programme runs until March 2026 and promises a packed calendar of festivals, performances, and exhibitions. Residents are not just spectators but active participants, helping to plan and deliver many of the events. This approach puts “people power” at the heart of Rochdale’s cultural renaissance.
Co-operative Congress Returns to Rochdale
This summer, Rochdale is hosting the prestigious Co-operative Congress, a central event in the United Nations’ International Year of Co-operatives. The Congress, staged at the Grade I-listed Rochdale Town Hall, brings together delegates from across the globe to celebrate the enduring legacy of the co-operative movement. The week-long programme includes workshops on responsible retailing and sustainability, historical tours, and cultural experiences such as film screenings and urban gardening tours.
High-profile speakers, including actor and comedian Steve Coogan and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, are set to inspire attendees and reflect on the movement’s future. Councillor Sue Smith, cabinet member for communities and co-operation, expressed pride in welcoming the world to Rochdale during this special year.
Festivals, Art, and Family Fun: What’s On in Rochdale
Rochdale’s calendar is brimming with events for all ages and interests. The Manchester International Festival brings “The Herds,” a major new work of public art and climate action, to Heywood. Seventy life-sized animal puppets, animated by 139 puppeteers, parade through the streets, sparking conversations about culture and the climate crisis.
Renowned artist Shilpa Gupta collaborates with local residents on “You Are the Place,” a multilingual sound installation exploring themes of waiting and hope. Meanwhile, the “Side by Side” festival, set for August, promises a week of performances and creative workshops in the heart of the town.
September will see the launch of “Common Walls,” an urban arts festival where visitors can watch murals being created live by some of the UK’s most exciting street artists. Rochdale’s food lovers are in for a treat as the annual Street Eat festival returns, offering a variety of food, drink, and live music in the Town Hall Square.
Feel Good Family Picnic: Summer Fun for All
One of the summer’s highlights is the Feel Good Family Picnic, which returns with an expanded line-up across four parks in Rochdale, Middleton, Littleborough, and Heywood. Running from 29 July to 1 August, the event features over 20 free attractions each day, including street theatre, circus acts, music, and creative workshops.
This year, new shows such as “Scrumptious!” and “The Alchemist” join crowd favourites like Thingumajig Theatre and Flat Cap Brass. The event also introduces a “Youth Zone,” giving young traders and performers a platform to showcase their talents. The daily carnival parade, led by Global Grooves, unites dancers, musicians, and community groups in a vibrant celebration of co-operation and creativity.
Organisers encourage eco-friendly behaviour, asking attendees to bring reusable bottles and take their waste home. The event aims to entertain and educate, with environmental stalls and demonstrations on sustainable living.
Rochdale Town Hall: A Landmark Restored
The historic Rochdale Town Hall, a Grade I-listed building, has undergone a multi-million-pound restoration supported by the National Lottery. The restoration has revealed intricate new paving in the Town Hall Square and brought fresh life to this iconic landmark.
The Town Hall is not just a backdrop for events; it is at the centre of Rochdale’s cultural revival. It now hosts inclusive activities for families, special events promoting health and wellbeing, and even the town’s first poet laureate, Sammy Weaver. The venue’s restaurant has welcomed an award-winning chef, adding to the town’s culinary appeal.
Community Initiatives and Local Achievements
Rochdale Borough Council has received a gold award from a Heywood-based veterans’ charity for its outstanding work supporting the armed forces community. The council has also launched a new parenting support app and unveiled a pedestrian crossing in Middleton, enhancing safety for residents.
Newhey Community Primary School celebrated victory as the borough’s first-ever Primary School Choir of the Year, reflecting Rochdale’s commitment to nurturing young talent. Meanwhile, local history enthusiasts are invited to join a major archaeological dig at Broadfield Park Slopes, offering a hands-on experience with the town’s past.
Looking Ahead: Rochdale’s Bright Future
Rochdale is not just celebrating its history; it is building for the future. With a thriving arts scene, a packed summer of festivals, and a renewed sense of community, the town is setting an example for others across the UK.
As the birthplace of the co-operative movement, Rochdale continues to inspire with its commitment to social change, creativity, and inclusivity. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, there has never been a better time to experience all that Rochdale has to offer.
From colourful parades and international conferences to family picnics and restored landmarks, Rochdale is a town on the rise. Its story this summer is one of pride, participation, and promise—a true celebration of what makes this corner of Greater Manchester so special.
Conclusion:
Rochdale is thriving, blending its proud history with exciting new developments in culture, community, and business. With vibrant events, renewed investment, and a strong sense of local identity, the town is setting a positive example for others across the UK. As Rochdale continues to grow and innovate, its future looks bright for residents and visitors alike.
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