OLDHAM is set to host a spectacular programme of free events this autumn and winter, with fire performances, fireworks, festive characters and the return of its popular Christmas Lights Switch-On.
The events form part of Oldham’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2026, celebrating the borough’s creativity, culture and community spirit with a series of family-friendly activities.
The programme kicks off with Feast of Fire on Saturday, October 31, bringing together Halloween and Bonfire Night celebrations in the town centre.
Taking place around Parliament Square from 5.30pm, the free event will feature fire dance performances, The Lips Halloween Show by Puppets with Guts and a pyrotechnic Halloween fireworks display.
Just two weeks later, the festive season will get underway with Oldham’s Christmas Lights Switch-On on Saturday, November 14.
A family-focused programme will begin at 1pm, with meet-and-greets with Peppa Pig, appearances from Oldham’s mascots and activities organised by the Spindles Kids Club.
The evening’s Switch On Show will start at 5.30pm, featuring Father Christmas, Peppa Pig’s Dance Party, Oldham Rock Choir and performances from Fierce Dance.
The Mayor of Oldham, Cllr Pam Byrne, will also join the celebrations, before a local schoolchild competition winner switches on the town’s Christmas lights.
A festive fireworks finale, accompanied by a lights and laser show, will bring the evening to a close.
Families can also enjoy the Festive Fun with Peppa Cinema Experience at the Odeon at Parliament Square on Saturday, November 14 and Sunday, November 15, with screenings at 10am and 11.30am on both days.
The big-screen experience follows Peppa Pig and her family as they celebrate Evie’s first Christmas. Tickets are available through the Odeon website.
Festive celebrations will continue throughout December, with three themed weekend events bringing music, entertainment and seasonal characters to the town centre.
Brass Monkeys will take place on Saturday, December 5, from 11am to 4pm, celebrating Oldham’s rich brass band heritage. Visitors can enjoy performances from local and national bands, ranging from traditional Christmas carols to lively strolling street bands.
The following weekend, Winter Wonderland Saturday will transform the town centre on December 12, between noon and 4pm.
The event will feature a host of festive characters and family entertainment, including the Winter Fairy, Betty Twinkle, Winter Wonderland Birds, The Snow Patrol, Lairy Fairy, a Dancing Christmas Tree and the Bouncing Snowmen. Activities from the Spindles Kids Club will also be available.
The programme will conclude with Santa Saturday on December 19, offering another afternoon of free festive entertainment from noon until 4pm.
Visitors can expect appearances from Wish Fairies, Festive Funky Hooping, Circus Elves, Rockin’ Robins, Bad Santas and Glitter Belles, alongside Christmas music from local brass bands.
Shelley Kipling, chief executive at Oldham Council, said: “2026 will be an unforgettable year for Oldham as Greater Manchester Town of Culture.
“We’re delivering an exciting programme of free events, giving residents and visitors plenty of opportunities to celebrate and make lasting memories together.
“From the spectacular Feast of Fire to the Christmas Lights Switch-On and festive celebrations, this is a fantastic opportunity to show the region what Oldham is all about – a place full of creativity and community spirit.”
She also encouraged visitors to support the town’s shops and market traders during the festive season.
Parking will be free after 3.30pm in all council town centre car parks on event days. Those arriving earlier can still receive three hours of free parking by obtaining a ticket from one of the parking machines.
Further details about the events and performances will be shared on the Love Oldham Facebook page. More information about Oldham’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2026 is available online.