The countdown to Rochdale Feel Good Festival has begun with the announcement of the date for the summer 2026 event.
The festival will return on Saturday 8 August, with organisers Rochdale Borough Council promising another big weekend of music, food and entertainment.
There will be live music across indoor venues, the main stage on Rochdale Town Hall Square, a quality food and drink village and other entertainment. Main stage ticket details will be announced shortly.
‘Exciting’
The festival was first staged in 2008 and previous main stage performers include Ocean Colour Scene, Razorlight, The Coral, Feeder, Lottery Winners, The Fratellis, Heather Small, Cast, Scouting for Girls, Fun Lovin’ Criminals, Toploader, The Feeling, Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, The Beat, Badly Drawn Boy, The Selector and The Lightning Seeds.
Councillor Sue Smith, cabinet member for communities and co-operation.
Councillor Sue Smith, cabinet member for communities and co-operation at Rochdale Borough Council, said:
“Rochdale Feel Good Festival is such a well-loved fixture on our calendar and it’s always exciting to announce its return, with the main stage on our fabulous town hall square. It’s always an unmissable festival for friends and family to enjoy, and a good opportunity for local businesses.”
Another local band will get chance to open the main stage. Last year Rochdale 5-piece ‘Atlas’ played the biggest gig of their career on the Saturday afternoon. The Battle of the Bands competition will be launched in April with local acts encouraged to apply to win the coveted slot.
It will be the 15th edition of the festival, which is funded by the council together with ticket sales and sponsorship from local businesses. If you would like to get involved with the festival, email FeelGoodFestival@rochdale.gov.uk
The main stage at Rochdale Feel Good Festival last year.
Rochdale Feel Good Festival is now a bi-annual event, alternating with the Feel Good Family Picnic. The free event for families, which includes performances, music, sports, dance, theatre and shows for children of all ages in local parks, returns in 2027.
Rochdale is the Greater Manchester Town of Culture for 2025-26. The title, awarded by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority celebrates the town’s rich history, creativity, talent and diverse arts scene.
More information, when announced will be available on the Rochdale Feel Good Festival website.