Rochdale's Grade I-listed Town Hall and gardens will host the popular Ignite Fire Festival again this winter, with free entry for all visitors.
The event, which attracted around 10,000 people last year, will run from November 20 to 22, from 5pm to 8pm each evening.
Light and Fire Trail
The centrepiece of the 2026 event will be a light and fire trail featuring six walk-through zones, all designed around the theme of the human body. This installation marks the North West premiere of the ambitious work, created by Walk The Plank and previously shown in Ireland and Canada.
Visitors will walk through the 'glowing embers' of human metabolism and learn about what keeps us alive through technology and dramatics.
Fire Garden and Entertainment
The attraction will also include a Fire Garden with illuminated slopes and gardens behind the Town Hall, featuring hand-crafted fire sculptures and pyrotechnics.
Entertainment will come from the 20-strong drumming collective Drum Machine, as well as fire spinning from Rochdale's Skylight Circus Arts and live fire shows by Travelling Light Circus. Each night, flame-cooked hot food, mulled wine, and other seasonal drinks will be available.
Festive Lights Switch-On
On Sunday evening, November 22, Father Christmas and special guests, including the Mayor of Rochdale, will switch on the festive lights at 5.30pm.
Councillor Sue Smith, cabinet member for communities and co-operation at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “Ignite Fire Festival has become a real success story for the borough, drawing audiences from across Greater Manchester and beyond. This 2026 line-up will build on that success with new attractions, creative performances and family-friendly experiences. It will be a fantastic celebration for residents and visitors alike, setting the stage perfectly for our Christmas lights switch-on.”
Bev Ayre, senior producer at Walk the Plank, added: “The Body is unlike anything we’ve brought to Ignite before. An immersive fire and light experience that combines art, science and creativity to help people discover the incredible human body in a fun and engaging way. Set against the stunning backdrop of Rochdale Town Hall Square and gardens, it promises to be one of our most exciting attractions yet. Even if you’ve visited Ignite before, this year’s festival will feel completely new.”
Full details of the Ignite festival are available online.
