The Darnhill Festival will return on Saturday 4 July with a packed programme of performances, creative activities and family entertainment.
The free event takes place in and around Argyle Square in Darnhill after being named Cultural Event of the Year at the 2026 Rochdale Culture Awards.
One of Rochdale borough's best known community events is set to welcome residents back for a day celebrating creativity, community and culture.
Founded by the Darnhill Festival Association and produced by Cartwheel Arts, the festival will run from 10am until 4pm on Saturday 4 July. Organisers say all activities will be free to attend.
This year's theme, One People, One Planet, has been inspired by the values of Humanity, Equality and Destiny associated with this summer's Commonwealth Games.
Festival organisers say the event will promote community connections while encouraging people to consider their shared responsibility towards the environment. Costumes and props have been created using recycled materials and sustainability themed arts and crafts activities will be available throughout the day.
Entertainment will include performances from Manchester School of Samba featuring dancer and drummer Danny Henry, circus activities with Skylight Circus Arts and music from the Flat Cap 3.
The Heywood's Got Talent marquee will be hosted by Alende Amisi, Rochdale's Young Poet in Residence during Rochdale Town of Culture 2025 to 2026. Performers include DIY Theatre Company, Miss Joanne's Dance School, Wild Things Performing Arts and local young poets and singers.
Visitors can also take part in activities organised by the Young Producers, a group of local young people who have developed event management skills through a partnership between Cartwheel Arts and Rochdale Youth Service.
Based at The Yard youth centre, the group will present an interactive world tour exploring the culture, food, fashion and music of Japan, France, Nigeria and Brazil.
A new addition for 2026 is Messages of Hope, a community art exhibition featuring work by local residents. Artwork carrying themes of hope, kindness, community and connection will be displayed in windows across Darnhill.
The Unity Is Strength Banner, created through a project involving women from Rochdale and inspired by the town's co operative heritage, will also be on display at Darnhill Community Cafe.
Families will be able to take part in cardboard art workshops, craft activities and kokedama planting sessions. Other attractions include a climbing wall, bouncy castle, face painting and sports activities delivered by Your Trust coaches.
Steve Beal, Stronger Communities Programme Co ordinator at Cartwheel Arts, said: "What unites us is far greater than what divides us. The festival unites the local community in a fantastic celebration of Darnhill, and the people who live here, connecting different generations and communities. We are very proud to play our part in such a well-loved community event."
The festival was founded in 2000 by the Darnhill Festival Association and is delivered in partnership with local residents.
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