Rochdale’s lights switch-on and Christmas market – all you need to know

There’s a day of free family entertainment at Rochdale Town Hall coming soon, when the festive market and lights switch-on kicks off the countdown to Christmas.

On Saturday 24 November the town hall will be transformed into a festive wonderland of fun, lights and music.

The market opens at 1pm, with loads of festive gift stalls and tempting treats upstairs in the Great Hall. Seasonal food and drink will be served in the Christmas Cafe while Wardle Community Brass Band play Christmas favourites.

Children and families will be able to join in some crafty workshops and have their faces painted.  They’ll be able to make some musical sounds with ‘The Melody Hub’ - there will be instruments and percussion for children to try, playing along with popular tunes.

 

 

From 4pm outside you’ll come face to face with a cheeky pair of elves who need your help to find Father Christmas.  As it goes dark, listen and look out for the Stilt Batteristas – incredibly tall drummers lit up with sparkling lights and playing festive songs. Children’s favourites Ben Elf and Princess Holly will arrive to say hello to everyone, before helping Father Christmas and the pantomime cast of ‘Sleeping Beauty’ from the Gracie Fields Theatre light up Rochdale.

Outside there will be hot food, mulled wine (for the grown-ups!) and other festive drinks.

 

 

Councillor Janet Emsley, cabinet member for neighbourhoods, community and culture at Rochdale Borough Council, said:

“I encourage everyone to celebrate the countdown to Christmas at this fun-filled event, with a local festive market, food and drink, activities for the children and our spectacular firework display, there will be something for everyone. It's free! No tickets or payment necessary, just get wrapped up warm and come along for some fun.” 

• More information on the stalls and family entertainment