Town of Culture

Our Prestigious Award

Greater Manchester Town of Culture 25/26

Rochdale was crowned Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture for 2025/26. This prestigious title celebrates our town’s rich history, creativity, and diverse arts scene, highlighting its unique cultural impact.

With an exciting year-long cultural programme, we experienced unmissable events, festivals, exhibitions, and performances that highlighted the very best of Rochdale’s rich cultural offerings and creative talent.

Our year of Culture

About 2025/26

A year-long celebration of Rochdale’s vibrant cultural scene, uniting communities through creativity, music, heritage, and art, with exciting events throughout the year.

From major festivals to grassroots projects, our Town of Culture championed local talent, showcases artistic excellence, and invited everyone to experience Rochdale’s dynamic cultural heartbeat through a diverse programme of events and creative experiences.

Celebrating our heritage

Rich history

Rochdale’s story is one of innovation, creativity, and resilience. From the co-operative movement’s birthplace to a hub of industry and art, our heritage is unique.

Through exhibitions, performances, and storytelling, we have and continue to honour our town’s pioneering past, celebrating the people, places, and moments that have shaped Rochdale’s identity - and will continue to shape its unique cultural future.

"Rochdale is a place with a rich cultural history so it is great to name it Greater Manchester’s town of culture as its town hall and town centre enter a new era."Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham

Rochdale’s Got Talent

Showcasing creativity

A year to spotlight Rochdale’s talented artists, musicians, writers, and performers. Our creative community is thriving, and 2025 provided its biggest platform yet.

From emerging talent to established names, we showcased art, music, theatre, and digital innovation, bringing exciting experiences to audiences across the borough. Thank you for everyone who was part of our year, and watched as Rochdale’s creativity shon and inspired the entire community throughout the year!

See for yourself

Our gallery

A visual celebration of Greater Manchester Town of Culture highlights – from street festivals and live performances to heritage events and creative workshops. Experience Rochdale’s spirited cultural energy and creativity as it comes to life in stunning images!