Festival Oldham returns - to celebrate Oldham's 175th anniversary!

Festival Oldham will showcase the very best local, regional and national outdoor arts, street theatre, music, dance and visual arts

Oldham town centre’s annual outdoor arts festival returns on Saturday, June 1, 12noon until 4pm.

Festival Oldham, the exciting annual event, will showcase the very best local, regional and national outdoor arts, street theatre, music, dance and visual arts – this year celebrating the 175th anniversary of Oldham.

Visitors on the day will have a choice of more than 50 performances and activities from the likes of The Album: Skool Edition, Bob the Butterfly and Gerry the Gerbera, Cloud Travellers (pictured below) and the musical bar with Serving Sounds.

You’ll be able to take a light-hearted look around Oldham with Cultural Comedy tours and join in on activities from Oldham Play Action Group, and much more!

Plus, it’s FREE so if you are looking for something to do with the kids this half term, it's got you covered.

This year there is the addition of Oldham’s Local Music stage, situated at the Old Town Hall which will see live performances throughout the day from the likes of Mercy Kelly, Millie Milner and the Deadnames, Global Grooves, and Heavy Salad.

The fun continues at Gallery Oldham with Fabric Feathers, a giant owl installation in the Gallery Garden’s where you can add to its feathers throughout the day and give live artist Hammo a hand with a 175-celebration mural.

Whilst you are there those attending can check out the performances and crafts inside the Gallery and head on upstairs to Gallery Oldham’s newest exhibit Ocean Drifters and be amazed by the inflatable giant jellyfish.

The Mayor of Oldham, Cllr Zahid Chauhan, said: “It’s great to have Festival Oldham back and this year it’s even more special, as we gear up to celebrate the 175th anniversary of Oldham becoming a borough.

“I encourage you to bring your families and friends into the town centre to watch and take part in high-quality cultural experiences in a fun and safe environment – and it’s all free.

“There is a great line up of performances that will provide a lively programme of family friendly entertainment and activities designed to bring our community together and celebrate being part of the borough.”

Brochures will be available on the day from Oldham Council staff, which will provide more information about the locations and times of each activity.

To see a full listing of the performers and more information, please click here

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