Rochdale's biggest event returns this Saturday as Feel Good Festival takes over the town centre

Rochdale's biggest and most attended annual event returns on Saturday 8 August as the Feel Good Festival once again transforms the town centre into one of Greater Manchester's largest free celebrations of live music, food and entertainment.

Thousands of visitors are expected to flock to Rochdale throughout the day, with the stunning backdrop of the newly restored Rochdale Town Hall providing the setting for a packed programme of performances, street food and family activities.

Headlining this year's main stage in Town Hall Square is BRIT Award-winning singer Gabrielle, whose career has produced chart-topping hits including Dreams, Rise and Out of Reach. She will be joined by legendary Northern Irish rock band Ash and indie favourites Starsailor, alongside performances from The Allergies, Alex Spencer, K-STATE, Metro and Dave Sweetmore.

Away from the main stage, live music will continue throughout the day inside venues across Rochdale town centre, with pubs, bars and independent venues hosting local artists and emerging talent, creating a festival atmosphere across the borough.

The festival officially opens at 11:30am, with entertainment continuing throughout the afternoon and evening before the headline performances conclude at approximately 10:45pm.

One of the festival's biggest attractions remains its popular Food and Drink Village, where visitors can enjoy everything from gourmet burgers and pizzas to international street food, loaded fries, desserts, artisan coffee, ice cream, licensed bars and locally produced drinks. Independent traders from across the region will once again showcase a wide variety of food and beverages throughout the day.

Visitors travelling by car are encouraged to use Rochdale town centre's public car parks, including those at Number One Riverside, Rochdale Exchange Shopping Centre and nearby council-operated facilities. Due to the popularity of the event and temporary road closures, organisers recommend arriving early or making use of public transport wherever possible. Rochdale Railway Station, Rochdale Interchange and the Bee Network Metrolink stop are all within a short walking distance of the festival site.

The event has been designed to be accessible for everyone. Step-free routes are available throughout the main festival site, accessible toilets are provided, designated accessible viewing areas will be available near the main stage and British Sign Language interpretation will accompany selected performances. Festival stewards will also be on hand throughout the day to assist visitors requiring additional support.

Since launching in 2008, the Feel Good Festival has welcomed internationally renowned artists to Rochdale and has become one of the North West's premier town-centre music festivals. Beyond the entertainment, it provides a significant boost to the local economy, with restaurants, cafés, bars, shops and hotels all benefiting from the influx of visitors.

Whether you're heading into town to sing along with Gabrielle, relive the guitar anthems of Ash, enjoy Starsailor's iconic hits or simply spend the day sampling fantastic food while supporting local businesses, the Feel Good Festival promises another unforgettable celebration of everything Rochdale has to offer.