ASHTON-under-Lyne is now buzzing with Halloween activity as the nine-day festival, A Nightmare on Market Avenue, has kicked off across Market Avenue and surrounding streets until Saturday, November 1.
Visitors are being treated to a packed programme of events already in motion: the Theatre of Screams scare-maze inside the former Yorkshire Bank building, nightly Twilight Ghost Hunts at the Metro Majestic Cinema, and daily ghost walks departing from the Moon & Back Bar.
The festival’s décor and atmosphere are in full swing.
The Avenue is decked out with props and sets inspired by horror classics such as The Lost Boys, SAW, Halloween and IT.
Meanwhile, themed bars, live music and late-night events – including the Mad Monster After Party at Chute Bar – are already engaging adult visitors, and family-friendly elements such as free face-painting, pumpkin hunts and retro gaming ensure there’s appeal for all ages.
Festival organisers say the aim remains the same: to create a fun, immersive experience while supporting town-centre businesses. “We’re bringing Market Avenue to life – or perhaps the afterlife – with something for everyone,” said a spokesperson ahead of the start.
If you’re planning to attend, it’s wise to check for booking requirements for certain attractions (for example, the scare maze) and to arrive early for the family-friendly events, as some of the most popular slots are already filling up.
Daily Events (24 Oct – 1 Nov)
- Theatre of Screams — scare maze inside the former Yorkshire Bank building (evenings, ticketed)
- Twilight Ghost Hunts — Metro Majestic Cinema (nightly)
- Ghost Walks — depart daily from the Moon & Back Bar
- Pumpkin Hunt & Retro Gaming Zone — daytime, free family activities
- Pop-up Cinema Screenings — various times
Saturday 25 October
- Blaze Dance Academy “Thriller” Flash Mob — afternoon performance on Market Avenue
- Mad Monster After Party — Chute Bar (late night event 18+)
Weekend Highlights (31 Oct – 1 Nov)
- Halloween Night Specials — live music and costume competitions across Hoppy Days, The Ladysmith & Tapsters pubs
- Family Spooktacular Finale — Saturday 1 Nov afternoon: parade, face-painting & closing celebrations