Nostalgic Oldham makes a grand return

Crowds are set to be mesmerised as the town centre promises to be transformed into a colourful retro wonderland next weekend.

Nostalgic Oldham returns on Saturday, September 27, from 11am–4pm, with a packed programme of vintage entertainment, live performers, classic cars, and family fun. 

The popular free one-day event invites visitors of all ages to celebrate Oldham’s heritage with a modern twist, bringing together everything from classic cars, retro crafts, live performances, face painting, and nostalgic gaming. 

Car lovers will be in for a treat as the Tame Valley Vintage and Classic Car Club rolls into town, with a huge display of vehicles (pictured below) spanning decades. From vintage models to retro favourites, the collection offers the perfect chance to take a trip down memory lane and chat with owners about them. 

Alongside the fun, families will have the chance to meet Sonic the Hedgehog™, and are encouraged to take along their camera to snap pics with the fastest blue hero from their childhood. Don’t miss out on this blast from the past – fun, games, and memories guaranteed. 

Sonic will be visiting for special meet and greets at intervals between 12pm and 4pm in Spindles Shopping Centre and Tommyfield Market. 

Highlights of the wider programme include Able Mable, a showgirl with a flair for the dramatic and the ridiculous, and Granny Turismo, back by popular demand with the world’s only shopping trolley dance display team. 

‘Back to the Future’ fans will be able to see a replica of the iconic DeLorean car from the films outside Oldham’s historic Town Hall. The time machine is a classic piece of history, offering the perfect photo opportunity and a chance to relive the magic of the beloved movies. 

The Yellow Bus is also back, bringing a packed line-up of family fun and jaw-dropping street entertainment to Parliament Square in the town centre. Watch Fire Man Dave, a circus master who’ll have crowds juggling and joining in the games, and Pete Anderson, the Rubik’s Cube solving master, whose daring ladder stunts are not to be missed. 

Comedy God Matt Barnard will keep the energy high as a top-class compère, while Bo Peep and her playful flock of sheep promise some baa-rilliant antics. 

And don’t forget to keep an eye out for Ollie and Millie in their retro 50s outfits, the towering stilt-walking Ringmaster, and the giant bees buzzing along the High Street. 

Little ones can get creative at the Kids Club in Spindles, with colourful face painting and craft activities guaranteed to keep them smiling. Meanwhile, big kids and even grown-ups can rediscover a line-up of retro arcade games in the unit opposite River Island. 

Local legend Frank Rothwell will also be making a special appearance, showcasing his famous Rothwell car and his remarkable Steam Powered Land Rover – sure to be a nostalgic favourite for everyone. 

Cllr Peter Dean, Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, said: “Last year’s first Nostalgic Oldham was a huge success, bringing thousands of people into our town centre and giving a real boost to local businesses. 

“This year, we’re building on that momentum with another fantastic free event for families to enjoy. It’s about celebrating Oldham, reliving fond memories, and showing off the best of our town centre and its excellent live performance scene. 

“I’d encourage everyone to come along, support local, and be part of what promises to be another brilliant day for Oldham.” 

Oldham Archives has a new permanent home in the Spindles shopping centre, moving from its temporary location in the library, and it will be officially opened by the Mayor, Cllr Eddie Moores, as part of Nostalgic Oldham.  

From 10am–4pm on Saturday, September 27, visitors can enjoy a special open day featuring historical maps, oral histories, tours of the new purpose-built archives store and the official opening will be performed by the Mayor at 2pm. 

Then from Monday, September 29 , researchers will once again be able to use the search room from 10am–5pm weekdays and 10am–1pm on Saturdays. 

Although some collections are still being transferred, there will be lots to offer visitors. 

The event is being delivered by Oldham Council in partnership with local businesses and venues, supporting the town’s growing calendar of cultural and family events. 

For more information, visit https://.oldham.gov.uk/event/nostalgic-oldham-2025/