The free festival, which was staged for the first time last year will again be transforming the gardens opposite Rochdale Town Hall from Friday, 22 November 2024 to Sunday, 24 November 2024 with free spectacular night-time shows delivering a magical trail of fire, lights and family entertainment leading up to the Christmas lights switch-on on the Sunday evening.
Fiery displays, blazing sculptures and illuminated installations will be open to walk through from 5pm to 8pm. Each evening a fire drawing designed and made by local residents will be ignited alongside flaming hot performances from some of the north’s top talent including Flame Oz, Bring the Fire Project, Travelling Light Circus, Astro Aliens, The Fire Man Dave and Rochdale’s Skylight Circus Arts. Travelling Light Circus who got a superb reception from the crowds last year will be returning too. Also back for 2024 is ‘Drum Machine’ – a 20-strong drumming collective, who will bring their techno-infused beats to the event. There will also be hot food, mulled wine and other seasonal drinks available to buy.
Father Christmas and his special guests, including the Mayor of Rochdale, will officially switch-on the lights at 5.30pm, Sunday, 24 November 2024 in front of the town hall while the Ignite Fire Festival continues until 8pm.
Community spirit: (left to right) Mike Doyle, brand ambassador, Councillor Sue Smith and David Stoneman, general manager at The Trade Centre UK, Rochdale.
The Trade Centre UK is the largest independent used car supermarket in the UK with bases across the country, including at Sandbrook Park, officially opened in 2019 by the mayor of Rochdale.
Mike Doyle, brand ambassador at The Trade Centre UK said they were very pleased to be supporting Ignite Fire Festival and Rochdale Christmas Lights Switch On:
“We know what a fabulous event this was last time and are keen to strengthen our connection with the community, supporting events like this. By sponsoring such a popular and well-loved weekend, we’re hoping to bring some festive fire to Rochdale, boost community spirit and contribute to the town’s cultural life. It’s also a way for us to give back to the borough where many of our customers and employees live.”
In 2023, the event attracted over 10,500 people and organisers Rochdale Borough Council are planning something even bigger this time around.
Councillor Sue Smith, cabinet member for communities and co-operation at the council visited The Trade Centre UK this week to meet the team and discuss plans for the event.
Councillor Sue Smith, cabinet member for communities and co-operation at the council visited The Trade Centre UK this week to meet the team and said:
“We are grateful for the support from The Trade Centre UK who are sponsoring this event for the first time. This investment will help us deliver an even bigger event with something for all the family over three wonderful evenings next month, attracting visitors from across Greater Manchester and beyond.”
Mark Bailey, founder and owner of Trade Centre UK added:
“The Ignite Fire Festival and Christmas Lights Switch On are key events for Rochdale, bringing people together and fostering a sense of pride in our town. It’s wonderful to partner with an organisation that shares our commitment to making these events as special as possible for everyone.”
The event is free, and no tickets are required. Ignite is organised by Rochdale Borough Council in partnership with Walk the Plank and Culture Co-op, a ‘Creative People and Places’ programme, funded by Arts Council England.
