Ignite Fire Festival and Rochdale Christmas Lights Switch-on
Visitors can experience dazzling displays and family activities transforming the square and gardens around Rochdale Town Hall, including parkland on Broadfield Slopes. Father Christmas and civic guests lead the countdown for the official town centre lights switch-on. Hot food, mulled wine, and seasonal drinks are available to purchase across the festival grounds.
What to Expect
Dazzling displays and festive switch-on around Rochdale Town Hall.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Town Centre
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Rochdale Borough Council and Rochdale Development Agency
Food & Drink
Hot food, mulled wine and other seasonal drinks are available to buy.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children
Vibe
Festive and lively
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: 5pm–8pm, Friday, 20 November 2026; 5pm–8pm, Saturday, 21 November 2026; 5pm–8pm, Sunday, 22 November 2026.
- Parking: The page directs visitors to parking in Rochdale Town Centre and council car parks.
Tips & Advice
- You don't need to book any of the three evenings, so you can simply turn up at the square and gardens around Rochdale Town Hall.
- Come on Sunday 22 November to see Father Christmas and the Mayor and Mayoress switch on the town centre lights after the countdown.
- Bring money for hot food, mulled wine and other seasonal drinks, which are sold across the festival grounds.
- Dress warmly, because this is an evening festival held outdoors in the square and gardens around the Town Hall and on Broadfield Slopes.
- Plan to use the council car parks in Rochdale town centre, since that is where visitors are directed to park for the festival.
Special Events & Promotions
- Christmas lights switch-on with Father Christmas and the Mayor and Mayoress of Rochdale on Sunday 22 November, after the traditional countdown.
- New for 2026: the festival spreads onto new pathways and parkland on Broadfield Slopes.
- Performers from Travelling Light Circus return for the 2026 festival.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book?
No, you can just turn up.
Who is the festival suited to?
It's for all ages. Anyone under 18 should ask a parent or guardian before taking part in any event or activity.
Is there food and drink?
Yes. You can buy hot food, mulled wine and other seasonal drinks.
Who switches on the Christmas lights?
Father Christmas and his special guests, including the Mayor and Mayoress of Rochdale, switch them on in front of Rochdale Town Hall on the Sunday after the traditional countdown. The fire festival carries on in the gardens opposite afterwards.
What's new for 2026?
The festival now takes in new pathways and parkland on Broadfield Slopes, with more displays and activities for the whole family.
More Christmas Events Near Rochdale
More Christmas Events near Rochdale
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.