Rochdale kicks off year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture

Saturday, 10 May 2025 11:20

By David Murphy

Rochdale has officially launched its year as Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture for 2025–26 with a preview event packed with local talent, voices and plans for the months ahead.

Held last night, Friday 9 May, at Rochdale Town Hall, the launch featured live music from local band PoolEra, spoken word from the borough’s new Poet Laureate Sammy Weaver and Youth Poets in Residence, and speeches from organisations including Create Rochdale, Culture Coop and Factory International.

The launch event offered a first look at the borough’s year-long programme of cultural events, exhibitions and performances.

Create Rochdale, a network of groups from the education, youth and arts sectors, outlined plans for a digital culture map for families, a youth-led festival and new young producer programmes. The group says it hopes the Town of Culture year will widen access to cultural education and inspire the next generation of local creatives.

Deputy Mayor for Rochdale, Councillor Janet Emsley, said: “Last night we launched #RochdaleTownofCulture at Rochdale Town Hall; watch for all the brilliant events and activities ready for you to participate in and enjoy in 2025/26. It’s going to be a cracking year.”

She added that it was the first public performance for both Sammy Weaver and the borough’s Youth Poets in Residence.

The Town of Culture award intends to highlight Rochdale’s rich heritage, artistic talent and diverse community. The programme will run through to spring 2026.