Trade Centre UK Ignites the Festive Spirit in Rochdale as Proud Sponsor of the Fire Festival

Tuesday 21st October 2025

The festive season in Rochdale is set to sparkle brighter than ever as the Ignite Fire Festival returns from Friday 21 to Sunday 23 November, and we at Trade Centre UK are thrilled to be the event’s main sponsor once again.

Following its dazzling debut in 2023, the festival is back and bigger than ever, transforming the area around Rochdale Town Hall and the newly restored Broadfield Slopes into a breathtaking landscape of fire, light, and festive cheer. Thousands are expected to attend this free, family-friendly celebration, which culminates in the town’s official Christmas Lights Switch-On on the Sunday.

As a business deeply rooted in the community, Trade Centre UK is proud to support an event that brings people together and showcases the creativity and culture of Rochdale, especially during its special year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2025–26.

Visitors can look forward to:

Three nights of spectacular fire and light shows from 5pm to 8pm, featuring blazing sculptures, illuminated installations, and immersive experiences created by the award-winning outdoor arts specialists Walk the Plank.
The world premiere of “Bubbles of Love”, a kinetic sculpture by Felix Rowberry, and the mesmerizing animatronics of Paka’s Fire Dragon.
A torchlight procession on Friday evening to launch the newly restored Broadfield Slopes.
Performances from local talent including Drum Machine, a 20-strong drumming collective, and fire spinning feats by Skylight Circus Arts and Travelling Light Circus.
The debut of Rochdale’s Ice Rink in Santa’s Village, open until 4 January.
A festive Christmas Market, hot food, mulled wine, and seasonal treats.

The highlight of the weekend will be the Christmas Lights Switch-On at 5:30pm on Sunday 23 November, led by Father Christmas, special guests, and the Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Janet Emsley.

Our Brand Ambassador, Mike Doyle, shared his excitement:

“We’re proud to support Ignite for the second year running. It’s a fantastic way to give back to the borough where many of our customers and employees live. This year’s festival promises to be the biggest yet, and we’re delighted to help light up Rochdale with festive fire and community spirit.”

Ignite is organised by Rochdale Borough Council and Rochdale Development Agency, in partnership with Walk the Plank and Culture Co-op, and funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

For full details and to plan your visit, head to rochdale.gov.uk/ignite.