Hare Hill Park was the place to be for the Love Littleborough Festival
Hare Hill Park was transformed into a vibrant hub of colour, music and community spirit on Saturday 25th July, as the very first Love Littleborough Festival welcomed families from across the town for a full day of entertainment, activities and local pride.
Organised by Littleborough Events and Associations Forum (LEAF), the brand‑new festival delivered exactly what its name promised - a joyful celebration of everything that makes Littleborough special.
One of the biggest draws of the day was the dramatic arrival of the Hrafnsdale Vikings, whose living‑history camp gave visitors a glimpse into Viking life. Their battle re‑enactments drew huge crowds, with children and adults alike captivated by the clashing shields and booming war cries echoing across the park.
Music filled the bandstand throughout the afternoon, showcasing the winners of LEAF’s community competition:
- Craig Lee and the Humblebees
- Ben Floyd, a talented 15‑year‑old singer/songwriter
- Mini‑Mercury, a young performer channelling Freddie Mercury with Queen classics
Each act brought their own energy and style, keeping the atmosphere lively and uplifting. They were joined by Littleborough Band, who delighted audiences with brass band renditions of contemporary favourites.
Across the park, families found something to enjoy at every turn:
- The Big Bubble Man had children racing through clouds of giant bubbles
- Circus Skills with Sarah encouraged both kids and adults to try juggling, plate‑spinning and other circus tricks
- Wardle Scouts set up their popular Axe Throwing Range
- Fur, Feathers and Scales introduced visitors to a fascinating collection of exotic creatures
- Jo Jingles brought musical fun for little ones
- Story Magic Theatre performed a traditional Punch and Judy show
- The Star Tree Studio offered creative arts and crafts
- Hare Hill House ran Woollen Woods craft workshops
Alongside the entertainment, the festival featured carnival games, penalty shoot-outs, face painting, independent craft stalls, and a tempting selection of food vendors, ensuring no one left hungry.
LEAF Chair, Zoe Attwood, praised the success of the inaugural event, saying:
“It was really great to see the park so busy with lots of families enjoying all the entertainment together.”
She added that the festival was only possible thanks to the dedication of LEAF’s volunteer team and generous support from Rochdale Council’s Pennines Township Fund and Reuse Littleborough.
The first ever Love Littleborough Festival proved to be a resounding success - and a strong foundation for what looks set to become a much‑loved annual highlight in the town’s calendar.
