Celebrating Rochdale’s Cultural Stars: Nominations Open for New Awards

Rochdale is getting ready to celebrate the people, creatives and organisations who make the borough shine, with the launch of the brand-new Rochdale Culture Awards, taking place in March 2026. 

The awards will be held at Rochdale Town Hall on Friday 27 March, marking the grand finale of the borough’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2025–26. But before the big night, residents and organisations are being invited to nominate their local cultural champions. Nominations are open now and will close on Friday 19 December. 

There are seven categories to choose from: 

• Cultural Legacy
• Creative of the Year
• Young Creative
• Cultural Event of the Year
• Health and Wellbeing
• Heritage
• Community

Councillor Sue Smith, cabinet member for culture and communities at Rochdale Borough Council, says the awards are all about recognising the imagination, talent and dedication that shape Rochdale’s cultural life. 

“Culture means many things to many people,” she said. “So these awards will recognise diverse and vibrant ways cultural activities improve our lives. Each category will highlight those whose work inspires others and strengthens our community. From well-known names to unsung heroes, we want to hear about those making a real difference. Please consider submitting a nomination and we are looking forward to reading them.” 

To be eligible, nominees must either be based in Rochdale or have a strong track record of delivering cultural activity that benefits local residents, visitors, or the borough’s economy. 

Estelle Rowe, chief executive of Your Trust, added: 

"We’re incredibly proud to be part of Rochdale Culture Awards which provide a brilliant opportunity to celebrate the creativity, passion and dedication that exists across the borough. From grassroots projects to major events, there is so much inspiring cultural work taking place that deserves to be recognised. These awards are a chance to acknowledge the individuals, groups and organisations who are enriching lives and strengthening communities through arts, heritage and culture.” 

Pete Courtie, head of culture and placemaking at Rochdale Development Agency, said: 

"This is an opportunity to shine a light and celebrate those who make a great contribution to the wealth of community culture that we’ve seen already this year, as well as hopefully inspiring others to get involved too - so do get nominating!” 

Nominations should reflect activity that’s taken place since January 2025, except for the Cultural Legacy Award, which can recognise achievements over a number of years. 

You can find out more and submit your nomination online at: 

👉 www.rochdalecreates.co.uk/townofculture/awards 

The awards are supported by Your Trust, Rochdale Borough Council, Rochdale Development Agency, Culture Co-op, Cartwheel Arts, and Rochdale Borough Cultural Network. 

Rochdale Culture Awards are part of a packed programme of festivals, performances, exhibitions and art during the borough’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2025–26. The title, awarded by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, celebrates Rochdale’s rich history, creativity, talent and diverse arts scene. 

Find out more at: 

👉 www.rochdale.gov.uk/TownOfCulture