Festival Oldham returns – bigger, bolder, and more brilliant than ever!

Now a much-loved highlight in the town’s cultural calendar, Festival Oldham 2025 promises an unforgettable experience with more than 60 performances and activities across key locations including the High Street, Parliament Square, Gallery Oldham, Oldham Library, Hilton Square, Oldham Parish Church and the Old Town Hall for a full day of free music and family fun between 10am – 7pm.

This year’s theme – Global Threads – invites you to explore a rich tapestry of global cultures through a dazzling fusion of music, dance, fashion and art. From colourful street theatre to interactive installations, spectacular performances to hands-on creative activities, there’s something to inspire and delight audiences of all ages.

You can meet us at Hilton Square for some amazing dance performances from Sonia Sabri Company’s Mughal Miniatures: The Awakening, transporting you back in time to the richness of the Mughal Empire with a surprising contemporary twist.  Plus, check out Closer to my Dreams from Chad Taylor which is about two young brothers from the inner city of Manchester that have dreams of becoming professional dancers. 

Closer To My Dreams from Chad Taylor is about two young, black brothers from the inner city of Manchester that have dreams of becoming professional dancers

Another one to watch will be four dancers going head-to-head in a dance, fashion and lip sync competition where the audience decides the winner with Ghetto Fabulous’ Family Catwalk Extravaganza.

Scott Walker will also be at the event with his Doodle Jam and Art Trail where he will invite you to join in and help him create street art in front of your very eyes!  Roaming around the town centre you will also see lots of shows and characters such as Turbo & Dai, Bling’n’Ting, and Slo:Rida making his way around the town centre.

Make sure you also visit Spindles Town Square Shopping Centre for the usual Kids Club activities.

Brand new for 2025 – we are also thrilled to announce that Oldham Music Centre’s Summer Music Festival will join the celebrations! With 30 music ensembles performing throughout the day, enjoy an incredible mix of sounds and styles – from classical orchestras and brass bands to choirs, rock groups, and musical theatre favourites.

Performances will take place at iconic venues across town during the day including:

   •          Festival Oldham Main Stage – Old Town Hall, Yorkshire Street

   •          Oldham Parish Church – A historic setting for exceptional musical talent

With performances running non-stop, the energy will be electric!

Cllr Peter Dean, Cabinet Member for Culture & Leisure at Oldham Council, said: “Festival Oldham is one of the standout moments in our events calendar, and this year’s celebration promises to be the biggest yet. Festival Oldham is all about bringing people together through creativity, culture, and shared experiences.

“It’s a brilliant opportunity to enjoy world-class performances from local and national performers right on your doorstep and to celebrate the incredible diversity and talent we have here in Oldham.”

Keep an eye on our social media for the latest event updates, performer announcements and behind-the-scenes sneak peeks.