Rochdale Co-operative Fair

Located in and around the recently restored Broadfield Park Slopes and Rochdale Town Hall, this celebratory event will feature 20 stalls. Learn more about the history of the co‑operative movement and pick up unique treats from the fairtrade market. 

Come and explore modern co‑operative organisations and see what they have to offer, from financial support with MetroMoneywise to cultural projects with Partisan Collective. See the new Rochdale Community banner, created by local artists and inspired by the protest banners from Rochdale’s history of revolutionary progressive action. Children can have a go at making their own paper banners and join a parade down the Broadfield Park Slopes, which will formally unveil the new Rochdale Community banner. 

Inside the town hall, people can explore the Rochdale which gave rise to the co‑operative movement, with the recreation of a Victorian street inspired by the notorious ‘Gank’, the worst slum in Rochdale, in the council chamber. Over in the Bright Hall, visitors can take part in a visible denim mending workshop, inspired by the Japanese art of Sashiko. People are encouraged to bring their own denim items for upcycling; but small denim swatches will be available. 

RDA look forward to welcoming you to this free event. There’s no need to book, simply drop in. Please note that the banner making session for the parade will take place between 10am and 12 noon, with the parade down the Broadfield Park Slopes starting at 12.30pm.