Town of Culture Outdoor Gallery
A vibrant collection of art on Drake Street from residents and students across Rochdale borough
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!
04
Jul
Jul
Shilpa Gupta: You Are The Place
Mumbai-based artist Shilpa Gupta has worked with local community groups to create this thought-provoking installation.
Free
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07
Jul
Jul
Big Dig 3.0
Become an Archaeologist for a day and excavate the history of The Broadfield Park Slopes!
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.
09
Jul
Jul
Culture Quest – encouraging and supporting families to explore their town of culture
Culture Quest is a new campaign to support and encourage families to explore their town of culture.
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09
Jul
Jul
Rochdale to Host Co-operative Congress 2025 in UN Year of Co-operation
2025 is U.N International Year of Co-operation, and the international Co-op Congress is happening right here!
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09
Jul
Jul
Making THE HERDS in Heywood
65 Heywood residents took part in workshops to bring the incredible puppet animals of THE HERDS to life.
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