Carnival fever to hit Rochdale as new event comes to Town Hall Square

Thursday, 20 March 2025 16:45

By David Murphy

BEATS: Batala Manchester will be bringing their Brazilian drumming experience to town for the event.

Rochdale Town Hall Square will be transformed into a dazzling display of colour and carnival next month when a spectacular parade rolls into town. Taking place on Thursday 10 April, ‘Flight of Fancy’ will feature giant puppets, drumming, dancing, stilt walkers, theatre and lanterns, all set against the magnificent backdrop of Rochdale Town Hall.

The focal point of this free event will be a stunning display of handmade lanterns, which local schoolchildren and community groups have been busy creating. Many have taken inspiration for their designs from the imagery inside Rochdale Town Hall, with birds and plants and other scenes from nature adorning many of its historic rooms.

Live musical performances from 40 piece Brazilian Samba band, Batala Manchester, will also be taking place, while Handmade Productions will be bringing some of their large scale puppets and light art along for all to see. Thingumajig theatre will also be joining in the fun.

Councillor Sue Smith, cabinet member for communities and cooperation at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “The town hall is pulling out the stops again with a fantastic event, which will really make this stunning space come alive with colour and creativity.

“People can expect a stunning display of handmade lanterns, live musical performances, street theatre entertainment and workshops in what promises to be a great event.

“We’ve already seen hundreds of local people, including schoolchildren, get involved in creating beautiful lanterns and I can’t wait to see all their creations on display.”

The free event, which is being funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, will take place on Thursday 10 April in Town Hall Square. It will begin at 7pm, with the parade starting at 8pm, before the event finishes at 9pm, People can just pop down and there’s no need to book.

‘Flight of Fancy’ is one of a host of events and activities taking place during Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2025-26. Rochdale’s year will build on the town’s rich cultural history and international reputation as the home of the co-operative movement with more than 35 arts organisations bringing together an ambitious programme of festivals, exhibitions, events and performances.

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