Thousands enjoy spectacular town centre parade

Posted by on 16 Apr 2025

More than 2,500 flocked to Rochdale Town Hall Square as the ‘Flight of Fancy’ parade came to town last week.

People from across the borough came together to soak up the carnival atmosphere, as the area surrounding the stunning Grade I Listed town hall exploded with colour and light.

An energetic performance from 40 piece Brazilian Samba band, Batala Manchester, set the tone for a fun, family friendly evening, while Hebden Bridge based, Handmade Productions, brought along large scale puppets and light art. Thingumajig theatre, from Todmorden, also joined in the fun alongside a host of community groups, including PossAbilities, the New Pioneers Group and Red Ant Art.

The focal point of the evening was a stunning display of lanterns created by local community groups and schools. The creative groups took their inspiration from the nature and wildlife which is depicted throughout the town hall, in its carvings and painted walls and ceilings, to create a stunning display, which they then paraded across the square.

More than 220 local people got involved in designing the beautiful lanterns, including pupils from Broadfield Primary School, Smallbridge Youth Club, Bowlee Community Association, Spotland Community Café, the town hall volunteers team and many more.

Councillor Sue Smith, cabinet member for communities and co-operation at Rochdale Borough Council said: “It was wonderful to see so many people in the square having a fantastic time against the stunning backdrop of Rochdale Town Hall. I was involved in the parade as a member of Bowlee Community Association and it was such an uplifting and joyful experience. We had so many different people, with lots of residents bringing their children along, who were really enjoying the spectacle. This is what the town hall is all about; bringing our communities together for unforgettable experiences like this, and, with the generous support of the National Lottery Fund, we are able to ensure that these events are either free or low cost, so there are no barriers to people getting involved.”

The Flight of Fancy parade was one of a number of events taking place this year at Rochdale Town Hall. On Thursday 15 May, a huge health fair, featuring more than 50 stalls, will be coming to the town hall. This drop in event will support any resident who wants to know more about health and care services available across in the borough, and will also feature information about key council services, like recycling and pest control.  On Saturday 21 June, the family friendly Street Eat food and drink festival will return. A summer organ concert will also take place on Wednesday 23 July. Led by Bridgewater Hall’s resident pianist, Jonathan Scott, this summer special will take place in the splendour of the great hall.

‘Flight of Fancy’ was part of a spectacular line up of festivals, live performances, exhibitions and art during Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2025-26. The title, awarded by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority celebrates the town’s rich history, creativity, talent and diverse arts scene. Find out more at www.rochdale.gov.uk/TownOfCulture

You can find out more about what you can see and do at Rochdale Town Hall, including information on the building’s restaurant, The Martlet, at: www.rochdaletownhall.co.uk