MORE than one million people took part in cultural events across Tameside over the past year.
For the borough’s programme attracted record crowds and put local towns in the spotlight.
Figures presented to Tameside Council’s executive cabinet showed that 1,142,581 residents and visitors attended events held in public spaces between April 2025 and March 2026 – beating the council’s target of 800,000.
A total of 153 events were delivered across the borough, ranging from large-scale celebrations to regular community favourites.
The Ashton Tulip Trail proved to be one of the biggest attractions, drawing more than 94,500 visitors into Ashton town centre, while events including Stalybridge Street Fest, Mossley Farmers Market, the Northern Lights Winter Parade and a pop-up summer beach helped bring thousands more people together.
Ashton-under-Lyne is preparing for a year-round programme of events linked to the redevelopment of Ashton Market Square. This will include free activities, live performances, artisan markets and themed Super Saturday events showcasing local talent.
Stalybridge is also building on its events offer at Victoria Market Hall, formerly the Civic Hall, with a programme celebrating culture, creativity and community throughout the year. Plans include live music, family activities, artisan markets, pop-up events, candlelit concerts and daytime discos.
Councillor Leanne Feeley, Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Culture, said the response from residents and visitors had been “amazing”.
She said: “It’s amazing to hear how many residents and visitors have joined us at our cultural events. Our teams work hard to deliver a vibrant and varied programme throughout the year, with something for all ages and interests – creating great opportunities for the community while attracting visitors from outside the borough.
“These events are helping to put Tameside on the map as a visitor destination and support the local economy by bringing more trade to our businesses.
“I’m increasingly hearing Tameside’s events being talked about across Greater Manchester, which is a fantastic reflection of their quality and success. Thank you to everyone for supporting our events and celebrating their local community – there’s lots more coming up to get involved in.”
With more events planned throughout the year, the council hopes the growing programme will continue to encourage people to visit, explore and enjoy what Tameside has to offer.