Rochdale’s Ignite Fire Festival Returns to Light Up Christmas

The countdown to Christmas kicks off in Rochdale next month with the return of the Ignite Fire Festival – a spectacular celebration of fire, light, and festive magic that’s quickly become a seasonal favourite in the borough. 

Back for its third year, Ignite will once again transform the square and gardens around Rochdale Town Hall, but this time it’s even bigger. The event now stretches into the newly restored Broadfield Slopes, with dazzling displays, an ice rink, and even a festive market adding to the excitement. 

Running from Friday 21 to Sunday 23 November, the festival features three free evening shows from 5pm to 8pm, drawing thousands of visitors to experience a magical trail of fire and lights. Organised by Rochdale Borough Council, it’s set to be the biggest Ignite yet. 

Expect fiery sculptures, glowing installations, and immersive experiences created by the award-winning outdoor arts specialists Walk the Plank. Their Fire Garden will feature the world premiere of Bubbles of Love, a kinetic sculpture by Felix Rowberry, and the mesmerising animatronics of Paka’s Fire Dragon. This isn’t your average Christmas lights switch on – it’ll be a beacon of light in a chilly winter, unlike anything you’ve seen before! 

Liz Pugh, creative producer at Walk The Plank, said they are absolutely delighted to be returning to Rochdale with more fiery magic. She said: “I’m particularly excited this year about the torchlight procession which will highlight new paths and planting around the Broadfield Slopes when they open the festival on the Friday.” 

On Friday evening, a torchlight procession will officially launch the newly opened Broadfield Slopes, highlighting the restored paths and planting. 

Each night, a fire drawing designed by local residents will be ignited, alongside performances from northern talent including the return of Drum Machine, a 20-strong drumming collective known for their techno-infused beats. 

Also returning is Fireflies, part of the Culture Co-op programme, featuring fire spinning performances by Skylight Circus Arts, Travelling Light Circus, and local residents specially trained for the event. 

New for 2025 is Rochdale’s Ice Rink, by Santa’s Village on Town Hall Square. Open until 4 January, it promises a magical skating experience for all ages. Booking ahead is advised for this one to ensure you get to experience the magic! 

You can also expect scrummy hot food, mulled wine, and seasonal drinks throughout the weekend. 

Father Christmas himself, along with special guests including the Mayor of Rochdale Councillor Janet Emsley, will officially hold the Christmas Lights Switch-On at 5.30pm on Sunday 23 November – all in front of the town hall after the traditional countdown, with Ignite continuing until 8pm. 

Ignite is delivered by Rochdale Borough Council and Rochdale Development Agency, in partnership with Walk the Plank and Culture Co-op, and funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The festival is sponsored by The Trade Centre UK, with support from The Casey Group and BRSK. The Casey Group is the contractor responsible for the restoration of the Broadfield Slopes, while BRSK is a full fibre broadband provider who will have a presence at Ignite. 

Councillor Sue Smith said: “Our Ignite Fire Festival and Christmas Light’s Switch On is a fantastic event and has been a huge hit with audiences across Greater Manchester. This year, with the addition of a new illuminated trail around our beautifully restored slopes area, the ice rink and the return of a Christmas Market it really will be the perfect build up to our big switch-on and the ultimate winter experience, providing lots of family entertainment across the weekend.” 

Mike Doyle from The Trade Centre UK added: “We know what a fabulous event this is and it’s going to be bigger than ever this year. We’re keen to strengthen our connection with the community and by sponsoring such a well-loved weekend, we’re hoping to bring some festive fire to Rochdale during its special year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture. It’s also a way for us to give back to the borough where many of our loyal customers and employees live and I’m looking forward to coming down to help switch on the lights on the Sunday evening.” 

Plan your visit and find out more at rochdale.gov.uk/ignite 

Ignite is part of a spectacular line-up of events during Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2025–26, celebrating the town’s rich history, creativity, and diverse arts scene. 

Learn more at rochdale.gov.uk/TownOfCulture