Spooktacular start for Streetlife 3 as hundreds flock to Ashton for Halloween fun

Market Avenue was transformed into a hive of Halloween activity over the weekend, as Streetlife 3: A Nightmare on Market Avenue kicked off in spine-tingling style.

The nine-day celebration, which runs until Saturday 1st November, drew hundreds of visitors for its opening weekend, with families, friends, and fans of all things frightful gathering to enjoy the spooky spectacle.

Organised by the Make Ashton Great Again team, the event has turned the town centre into a Halloween wonderland, filled with eerie lights, themed decorations, and a packed programme of entertainment for all ages.

From the very first night, Market Avenue was buzzing with excitement as ghosts, ghouls, and costumed characters filled the streets. The Theatre of Screams scare maze, located in the old Yorkshire Bank building, proved a major hit, with brave guests queuing up for a dose of adrenaline-fuelled fear. Meanwhile, Blaze Dance Academy’s Thriller flash mob wowed the crowds on Saturday, filling the street with music, dancing, and a healthy dose of spooky energy.

Families also enjoyed the lighter side of Halloween fun, with pumpkin hunts, face painting, and the popular Pop-Up Cinema screenings offering plenty to do throughout the day. Many local businesses joined in the spirit, decking out their venues and welcoming visitors for themed treats, live music, and Halloween cocktails.

With the opening weekend setting a high bar, there’s still plenty more in store as Streetlife 3 continues through the week. The Theatre of Screams returns on 31st October and 1st November for those who missed it, while Twilight Ghost Hunts at the Metro Majestic Cinema promise eerie encounters for the brave hearted.

The Retro Gaming Arcade and Pop-Up Cinema remain open daily, alongside free ghost walks, vigils, and workshops starting from the Moon & Back Bar. Market Avenue itself continues to impress with its walk-through movie set inspired by horror classics like The Lost Boys, SAW, Elm Street, and Poltergeist, offering perfect photo opportunities for visitors in costume.

Ashton’s pubs and bars are also joining the celebration, with Hoppy Days, Tapsters, Bar15, Browtons, Feathers, The Ladysmith, Loca, and others hosting their own Halloween-themed events throughout the week.

The event concludes this weekend with another packed schedule of live performances, themed parties, and family-friendly fun.

To find out more or get involved, follow Make Ashton Great Again on Facebook or email info@tamesideofficial.co.uk.