FAB Festival Poetry Exhibition
Rochdale Library is hosting the ‘Poems to Change the World’ exhibition.
Free
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- Town of Culture
Our Prestigious Award
Greater Manchester Town of Culture 25/26
Rochdale has been 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, expect unmissable events, festivals, exhibitions, and performances that highlight the very best of Rochdale’s rich cultural offerings and creative talent.
Town of Culture events
What’s on
A spectacular line-up of festivals, live performances, exhibitions, and creative experiences is coming to the borough. Explore music, art, food, and culture – there’s something for everyone!
26
Mar
Mar
Rochdale Square Gallery // FAB Festival Take Over
Rochdale's young people are taking over our Square Gallery
Free
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27
Mar
Mar
FAB - Youth Arts Festival
FabFest! Rochdale's Youth Arts Festival will take place 27th - 28th March.
Free
Learn MoreThe year ahead
About 2025
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 champions local talent, showcases artistic excellence, and invites 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’ll 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 will provide its biggest platform yet.
From emerging talent to established names, we’ll showcase art, music, theatre, and digital innovation, bringing exciting experiences to audiences across the borough. Watch as Rochdale’s creativity shines and inspires 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!
Latest News
Stay up to date with the latest announcements, event highlights, and behind-the-scenes stories from Rochdale’s year.
27
Mar
Mar
Ireland’s Barry Kerr Crowned Folk Album Of The Year Award Winner On St Patrick’s Day
The Folk Album of the Year Award has unveiled Barry Kerr as its first prize winner for Curlew’s Cry.
Learn More
27
Mar
Mar
Rochdale Music Stories: Spotlight on The Velvet Shadow
Meet Matt Temperley, the Littleborough-based electronic artist bringing a fresh, electronic twist to The Velvet Underground for Rochdale Music Stories.
Learn More
27
Mar
Mar
Rochdale’s Youth Arts Festival is ‘FAB’
Rochdale's new youth arts festival FAB (Freedom, Art and Belonging) is bursting onto the scene this March.
Learn More