Stalybridge Carnival countdown

Still going strong after 50 years

Stalybridge Carnival celebrates its 50th anniversary next month when the annual carnival rolls into town.

To mark the ‘golden’ milestone, Stalybridge Festival Committee (in partnership with Dukinfield & Stalybridge Rotary Club) has been extremely busy behind the scenes planning a bumper carnival befitting of the landmark occasion. 

This year organisers have join forces with the carnival arts group Global Grooves, based in Mossley, to add some extra magic to the parade. Specially planned workshops continue apace as preparations continue for the big day.

Event Organiser, Ian Cochrane, said: “Stalybridge Carnival has very much become an integral part of our heritage and culture, and the Festival Committee appreciates the many thousands of people from Stalybridge and beyond who come along year after year to support the event.

“A big thank you to Dukinfield & Stalybridge Rotary Club and Jigsaw Housing for their financial donations towards the cost of this year’s carnival. It is much appreciated.”

The carnival itself will take place on Sunday, June 28, with this year’s parade again starting from the usual assembly point on Bayley Street at 1pm before making its way through the town centre. 

FLASHBACK: Thousands supported last year's carnival.

Ian added: “We have already received many entries from local community groups, schools, dance groups and local businesses who will all be taking part in the parade.

“There will also be a float in the carnival for our former Stalybridge Carnival Queens who can contact us via our email address stalybridgefestival@outlook.com if they would like to join us in the parade.

“Once again, we are planning a fun packed family day of activities in Cheetham Park starting from 11am including a large family fun fair, many craft and community stalls, hot food and live entertainment in the performance arena.”

FAMILY FUN DAY: Cheetham Park will be packed with activities on the day for everyone to enjoy.

The Festival Committee has also been working with Stalybridge Motor Bike Club who themselves are celebrating their 50th anniversary in 2026 and will be hosting a motorbike show in Cheetham Park on Carnival Day.

In addition, Tameside Voices are planning to entertain the crowds in Armentieres Square as they await the arrival of the razzamatazz of the parade. Whilst over in Stalybridge Civic Hall, So Retro will be hosting a Retro event which will include trade stalls, several classic vehicles and live entertainment.

“It all adds up to being an unforgettable day,” said Ian.

“So come on down and join in the fun as Stalybridge celebrates 50 years of Stalybridge Carnival.”

ROYAL CALL: There will be a float this year for all former Stalybridge Carnival Queens who would like to take part.