TWO town centres in Tameside are set to burst into life this Easter as a new four-day festival promises to plant the seeds for a busy year ahead in Ashton and Stalybridge.
Running from April 8 to 11, the Spring Family Festival organised by the council will showcase the changing face of both towns.
There will be a mix of entertainment, food and family activities, designed to draw people back in and give a glimpse of what’s blooming behind the scenes.
At the heart of the celebrations is Ashton Market Square, which is nearing completion following a £10.8 million redevelopment funded through the Government’s Levelling Up programme.
The square will host the opening two days of the festival with an “Ashton Spring Preview”, featuring vintage fairground rides, live performances, street food and children’s activities. While some work is still ongoing, a central section in front of Ashton Library will be open to the public.
The festival then branches out to Stalybridge Civic Hall on Friday, April 10, where the first Street Fest of the year will take place. The popular monthly event returns with its usual mix of food stalls and entertainment, alongside an artisan market inside the recently refurbished hall.
Organisers say the aim is not just to entertain, but to give both town centres a much-needed spring boost – encouraging shoppers and visitors to rediscover what’s on offer.
The final day sees the action return to Ashton for a “Super Saturday” taster event, with a food-focused theme offering a preview of regular events planned once the market square is fully open in the summer.
Councillor Eleanor Wills, Leader of Tameside Council, said: “The Spring Family Festival is taking place in the school Easter holidays and will be a wonderful opportunity for families, residents and visitors of all ages to take part in free fun activities and watch spectacular performances.
“This is just a taste of things to come and only the start of our transformational plans for all of our town centres to help them meet the needs of residents, visitors and businesses and move with current shopping, leisure and cultural trends.”