The borough of Rochdale is set for a creatively rich 2026, with a diverse programme of cultural events spanning poetry, theatre, music, and visual arts announced for the coming year.
Poetry in the Community: Library Exhibitions Launch
Four local libraries will become hubs for poetic expression from Tuesday 27 January 2026. Heywood, Middleton, Spotland, and Wardle Libraries will host special exhibitions showcasing work from Rochdale's first Poet Laureate, Sammy Weaver, and the borough's two new young poets in residence, Alende and Sasha.
The displays will also feature poetry from local community members who participated in Sammy Weaver's popular creative writing workshops, alongside pieces from established local poets inspired by Rochdale itself. Admission operates on a Free / Pay What You Want basis from 12 noon.
Romance and Drama: Major Performances Announced
For Valentine's season, Rochdale Town Hall will provide a stunning backdrop for 'Valentines by Candlelight' on Friday 13 February 2026. Doors open at 6.30pm for a 7.30pm performance by string quartet String Fusion, who will play iconic love songs and romantic film soundtracks in a candlelit setting. Tickets start from £6.
In Manchester, the Royal Exchange Theatre celebrates its 50th anniversary season with a major production. Olivier Award-winning actor Jill Halfpenny will return to play Amanda Prynne in Noël Coward's classic comedy Private Lives, running from 27 March to 2 May 2026. The production is directed by Blanche McIntyre, with tickets from £12.
Celebrating Local and Regional Talent
The creative momentum continues with the return of the Manchester Open 2026 at HOME gallery. This major open submission exhibition, running from 20 June to 6 September 2026, invites artists of all levels across Greater Manchester to submit work in categories including ceramics, digital art, painting, and sculpture. The submission portal is open until 19 February 2026.
Back in Rochdale, the weekly Toad Lane Concerts at St Mary in the Baum church welcomed 2026 with a performance from the ladies' choir 'More than Melody'. The Queen’s Award-winning concert series continues every Wednesday at 12.30pm, with an entrance fee of £6.
Regular Community Activities
Alongside these special events, local libraries continue their regular programmes. Highlights include a Reading Group at Middleton Library on the last Saturday of each month, a Monthly Lego Club at Langley Library requiring booking, and a Kids' Club at Wardle Library with free craft activities, also on the last Saturday of the month.
