Festival Oldham is back with a day of free family fun this weekend

Festival Oldham returns this month, with an extra special edition set to officially launch Oldham’s Greater Manchester Town of Culture Programme.

Taking over Oldham town centre on Sat 30 May, this year’s free outdoor arts festival is inspired by all things green, promising an exciting day of entertainment from local, regional and national outdoor artists.

Visitors can enjoy a packed schedule of street theatre, dance, visual arts, family performances and live music throughout the day.

The main stage on Parliament Square will host performances from Taste of Sabrina, Baked À La Ska, Untold Orchestra and Snow In August, creating a lively soundtrack for the day’s celebrations.

New for 2026 is REACH – Dancing Town, a showcase celebrating some of the very best dance talent from across the borough.

Festivalgoers can also enjoy an incredible line-up of outdoor performances, including Bee-Yond the Garden Gate by Limelight Circus, Easy Lay Eggs by Fair Play and The Pigeons by Circii. The majestic Summer Lion by Creature Encounters will also roam through the town centre across the day.

Attendees will also be able to witness a breathtaking murmuration of starlings created by Burnley Brow Primary School in response to the exhibition Oldham Wakes by Sophie Tyrrell, currently on display at Gallery Oldham until September.

Neil Consterdine, Director of Communities at Oldham Council, said: “Festival Oldham is always one of the highlights of our year and 2026 promises to be our biggest and most exciting festival yet.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to bring people together, celebrate the incredible creativity we have across our borough and showcase Oldham as a vibrant destination full of culture, talent and community spirit.”

“This year’s festival is particularly special as it officially launches Rising Up, our Greater Manchester Town of Culture programme.

“Residents and visitors can expect an unforgettable day packed with music, dance, street theatre and family entertainment right in the heart of Oldham town centre.”