Saturday roundup as we Sing Hosanna first and then SKA later at Ramsbottom’s Come Together Festival

Ramsbottom stayed lively into Saturday night, 7 February, as the volunteer run Ramsbottom Come Together Festival continued a full day of activity into the night.

Events have been running across Ramsbottom throughout the day, since Friday night, and the festival continues until Sunday.

But the early evening focus for families was at St Pauls Church. School Assembly Bangers brought parents and children together for a lively session built around shared school memories, playground anthems and familiar assembly songs.

And trust us, several hours later we’re still singing Sing Hosanna in our heads whilst writing this.

The team leading School Assembly Bangers leaned heavily into the school theme, talking about assemblies, classrooms and childhood routines while encouraging the crowd to sing along.

At times the atmosphere felt closer to a school hall than a dancefloor, with voices joining together in the same way they once would have for hymns such as Sing Hosanna. The result was upbeat, inclusive and unashamedly joyful, with laughter and movement spreading quickly through the church.

The event was part of a wider volunteer run programme, with organisers, stewards and performers giving their time to keep the evening running smoothly. That community led approach was clear throughout, creating a relaxed and welcoming feel rather than anything polished or commercial.

The Ramsbottom Come Together Festival 2026 is a free three-day celebration of music, arts, and community, taking place across venues throughout Ramsbottom to raise money for the Save Coop Hall campaign.

"If I were a butterfly, I'd thank you Lord for giving me wings. If I were a robin in a tree, I'd thank you Lord that I could sing. If I were a fish in the sea, I'd wiggle my tail and I'd giggle with glee".

Later in the evening, attention shifted across town to the Theatre Royal. Lancashire songwriter Joseph Lofthouse appeared in a support slot, performing solo with guitar. His calm delivery and reflective songwriting drew the audience in, offering a quieter moment built on personal stories and understated melodies.

One member of the audience said “I literally live around the corner and drive past the Theatre every day, but this is the first time I’ve ever been in - and it’s great”. 

From 7.15pm, the Theatre Royal filled quickly as Manchester ska band Baked A La Ska took to the stage. The eleven piece group delivered a high energy set driven by brass and rhythm, turning the venue into a moving dancefloor within minutes.

Now, if you’re gutted that you’ve missed out so far then don’t panic - you’re not too late as there are still the events and activities taking place on Sunday. More information can be found on the RCTF website at https://www.rctf.co.uk