The cultural scene in Rochdale is bursting with festive energy this season, offering residents and visitors an exciting array of entertainment options. From award-winning musical performances to thought-provoking theatre productions, there's something to captivate every taste.
Brass and Bublé: A Christmas Celebration
Rochdale's beautifully refurbished Town Hall will host a spectacular festive performance on December 14, 2025, at 7pm. The event features the incredible Wardle Anderson Brass Band accompanying an outstanding Michael Bublé tribute act, bringing all the smooth vocals and Christmas charm of the Canadian crooner to life.
The Wardle Anderson Brass Band, established in the 1990s and named after William Anderson (founder of Wardle High School), has demonstrated remarkable musical excellence in recent competitions. Their achievements include securing the First Section North West Regional Championship title in 2024, earning promotion to championship status. The band also claimed first place in the 2023 North West area contest with their performance of 'A Day in the Life of a Knight'.
Tickets for this festive celebration range from £6 to £15, offering affordable access to quality entertainment at Rochdale Town Hall on The Esplanade.
Diverse Cultural Offerings Across Greater Manchester
Beyond the brass band celebration, the region boasts numerous cultural events. The Octagon Comedy Club in Bolton presents a special Christmas edition on Friday, December 19, 2025, at 7:30pm. The lineup includes Edinburgh Festival Fringe favourite Louise Leigh, award-winning comedian Raul Kohli, popular stand-up Mick Ferry, and the original stylings of Rob Thomas. Tickets are priced at £19.
Theatre enthusiasts can experience HELIOS from Oldham Coliseum at George Street Chapel on Thursday, November 27, at 7:30pm. This production transplants the Ancient Greek tale of the sun god's son into modern-day England, exploring life's invisible monuments. Tickets start from £12, and the venue offers accessibility features including lift access and accessible toilets.
Christmas Classics and Weekly Cultural Events
Dickens enthusiasts won't want to miss a unique adaptation of A Christmas Carol at Rochdale Ukrainian Centre on Monday, December 1, at 7:30pm. Adapted and performed by Adam Z. Robinson, this solo show presents the classic story through gripping narration, eerie recorded voices, and an immersive soundscape. Robinson portrays 28 different characters in this hair-raising, thrilling, and heart-warming production. Tickets start from £10, recommended for ages 10 and above.
For regular cultural fixes, the Queen's Award-winning Toad Lane Concerts continue every Wednesday at 12.30pm at St Mary in the Baum church. The entrance fee is £6 cash, offering accessible classical music performances to the community.
Meanwhile, local author Gary Bridson-Daley has released extended versions of his book 'Poetry and Portraits' during Remembrance Week November 2025. The new editions feature nearly 80 additional pages with more veteran interviews, poetry, and extended stories from World War Two and other conflicts.
Community Activities and Learning Opportunities
Rochdale's community centres and libraries host various regular activities. Reading groups meet at Castleton Library on November 13 and Heywood Library on November 14, both free to attend. The Lego Club at Rochdale Central Library on November 15 offers creative family fun, while the Castleton Literary and Scientific Society hosts a talk about the East Lancashire Railway on November 14.
For those interested in local history, the Fireground Museum showcases Greater Manchester's firefighting story with artefacts dating from the 18th century to present day. Admission prices range from free for under fours to £24 for a family ticket.
This diverse programme of events demonstrates Rochdale's thriving cultural scene, providing numerous opportunities for entertainment, education, and community engagement throughout the festive season and beyond.
