The Yanks are coming… to Ashton

Tameside residents are being invited to step back in time this weekend as Ashton-under-Lyne hosts the inaugural Yanks Street Party.

The Yanks Street Party is taking place on Saturday, August 1st, 2026 across Market Avenue and Sir Geoff Hurst Square. The event will transform the town centre into a vibrant 1940s American-themed street festival, complete with live music, entertainment, food, and hundreds of metres of bunting.

This free, family-friendly celebration is inspired by the classic film Yanks, which was filmed in various locations across Tameside and beyond, including Stalybridge, Hyde, Saddleworth, Glossop, and Stockport.

Yanks, released in 1979, starred Richard Gere, Vanessa Redgrave and Lisa Eichhorn. Set during the Second World War, the film tells the story of American servicemen stationed in northern England and the relationships they formed with local communities. Much of the film was shot in Saddleworth, particularly around Uppermill and Dobcross, and it has become an enduring part of the area's cultural heritage.

For many years, that connection was celebrated through the popular Yanks Weekend in Uppermill. The event attracted thousands of visitors from across the country, with military vehicle displays, re-enactors, vintage entertainment, and more. This year's celebration moves the Yanks celebration into the heart of Ashton-under-Lyne.

Visitors can expect a programme of entertainment throughout the day, with swing bands and DJs providing a soundtrack of classic 1940s music, while live singers inspired by the Rat Pack era will be performing. An appearance by Winston Churchill will add to the wartime theme, and the giant LED screen in Sir Geoff Hurst Square will be showing the Yanks movie.

There will be craft food and drinks available, and other artists and traders lining the streets. Families will also find plenty to enjoy, including face painting and children's entertainment. The streets will be decorated with hundreds of metres of bunting and flags.

The event was originally planned to take place over the whole weekend, but due to military vehicle owners and re-enactment groups unable to confirm attendance, organisers have made some changes. As a result, the event will now take place just on Saturday, with a focus on creating an even bigger street festival atmosphere.

The Yanks Street Party takes place on Saturday, August 1st from 10am until late. Entry is completely free, and everyone is welcome.