The Rochdale favourite will host the headline stage at the annual event, taking place on Saturday, 8 August 2026, bringing his signature mix of indie, Britpop and Manchester classics to festivalgoers.
With a career spanning more than two decades, Sweetmore has become a well-known figure on the UK music scene, performing at venues nationwide and working alongside major artists including James, Nik Kershaw, Paul Young, Inspiral Carpets and Happy Mondays. He is also a familiar voice on BBC Radio Manchester, where he regularly champions emerging talent and the region’s live music scene.
This year’s festival promises a packed line-up, headlined by Gabrielle, Ash and Starsailor, alongside performances from The Allergies and Alex Spencer, with more acts yet to be announced.
Live music will take place across multiple indoor venues, as well as on the main outdoor stage set against the backdrop of Rochdale’s Grade I-listed town hall. Visitors can also expect a vibrant food and drink village and a range of additional entertainment throughout the day.
Festival organisers, Rochdale Development Agency, are working in partnership with the local council and sponsors including The Royal Toby Hotel to deliver the event.
The celebrations begin the night before, on Friday, 7 August, with a special headline show featuring Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, joined by Peter Hook and The Light and A Certain Ratio in Rochdale Town Hall Square.
Organisers say this year’s festival is set to be one of the biggest yet, celebrating music, culture and community in the heart of Rochdale.
