A free festival showcasing food, music, art and culture from across the Islamic world will take place in Rochdale Town Hall Square on Saturday 1 August. The event, called Merhaba (meaning "welcome"), runs from 11:00 until 17:00 and is organised by Culture Co-op and created by the Islamic Arts Co-op.
What to expect on the day
Merhaba will bring together homemade street food, live music, artisan crafts and creative activities aimed at all ages. The food offering will reflect the borough’s diversity, with dishes from communities including Turkish, Pakistani and Ethiopian cuisine alongside other international flavours. Regional bands will perform a programme of world music, while local and regional artists will sell handmade crafts at market stalls.
- Free entry to the festival; food and drink available to purchase.
- Family-friendly activities including free art workshops, games and planned fairground rides.
- Live performances and an artisan market showcasing local talent.
Organisers say the festival aims to bring people together through community cohesion, togetherness and shared cultural experiences.
Practical details
The festival will be staged on The Esplanade, Rochdale OL16 1AZ, centred on the Town Hall Square. Entry to the event is free, although attendees should expect to pay for food, drink and some stalls or activities. Merhaba is positioned as a family event and organisers have arranged a mix of performances and hands-on activities suitable for children.
| What | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Merhaba – world music, food and arts festival |
| Date | Saturday 1 August |
| Time | 11:00–17:00 |
| Location | Rochdale Town Hall Square, The Esplanade, OL16 1AZ |
| Admission | Free (food and drink for purchase) |
Local context and community impact
Merhaba arrives as one of several summer events drawing visitors into Rochdale town centre. Festivals that celebrate food and culture can provide a boost to nearby traders and help promote the skills of local artists and food producers. They also form part of broader efforts by community groups to foster cohesion and provide inclusive public gatherings.
For residents planning to attend, organisers recommend arriving early to enjoy performances and workshops throughout the day. Those with accessibility requirements should check event signage and arrangements on arrival; the festival is based on flat public square space but will include temporary stalls and attractions.
Further information on scheduled performers, the full programme and any late amendments is likely to be published by Culture Co-op and the Islamic Arts Co-op ahead of the event.
