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[Cllr Peter Dean seated in Oldham Library smiling with an assortment of books ]

Fall in love with reading again and rediscover your library in 2026

Cllr Peter Dean, Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, is encouraging residents in Oldham to make 2026 the year they rediscover their library in Oldham if they haven't been for a while.
 
2026 is the National Year of Reading - an initiative led by The National Literacy Trust to inspire more people to make reading part of their lives.
 
Oldham has 12 libraries across the borough, from the busy and vibrant central library in Oldham’s Cultural Quarter, to gems such as the newly-refurbished Northmoor Library in Coldhurst and Uppermill Library in St Chad’s Gardens.
 
“There’s something really special about getting lost in a good book, and with 2026 being the National Year of Reading, it’s the perfect time to fall back in love with reading," said Cllr Dean.
 
Read the full story [here.]([link removed])

 

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Looking for ways to beat the January blues this weekend?
 
Oldham town centre venues have got you covered with an uplifting programme of events. 
 
This weekend’s highlights include Dave Sweetmore’s Indie Rock ’n’ Roll at Whittles Oldham, Rock and Metal Fridays at the Bank Top Tavern and live music at the Bees Knees, Old Bank and the Fox and Pine Oldham.
 
Find the full details at [whatson.oldham.gov.uk.]([link removed])

 

[Julie Hesmondhalgh interviewing Oldham Council Leader Cllr Arooj Shah and MP Jim McMahon](http://: [link removed])

Bringing the Oldham Coliseum Back to Life – latest podcast out now
 
Episode four of the Coli Cast is available to listen to now.
 
Actor Julie Hesmondhalgh chats to Oldham Council Leader Cllr Arooj Shah, MP for Oldham West Jim McMahon and Martin Horne from Tilbury Douglas, the company working on the historic theatre.
 
Have a listen and find out about the hard work happening behind the scenes [here.](http://: [link removed])

 

[Adults and children wearing warm clothing and hats as they carry glowing lanterns through Oldham town centre ]([link removed])

Shine your light – The Illuminate Lantern Workshops are back
 
Get creative and make your own lantern at our free workshops at Gallery Oldham ready for Illuminate 2026.
 
Open to ages 7 and above, these fun, hands-on sessions provide all the materials you need, with friendly instructors on hand to guide you every step of the way.
 
Everyone who joins a workshop will have the chance to be part of the Illuminate Light Night parade on Saturday 21 February, between 5.30–7pm.
 
Workshops are free, but booking is essential. Secure your place now [here.]([link removed] )

 

[Artwork of two people working out with the ]([link removed])

Delivering a feel good start to the year with Oldham Heritage, Libraries and Arts
 
The Healthy New Year Festival has a packed programme of activities at Oldham Library and Gallery Oldham.
 
Today (Friday 23 January) there's a full day of free sessions at Oldham Library, from exercise classes to Chatty Crafts, and you can spend an afternoon with award-winning author Adam Farrer.
 
Tomorrow (Saturday 24 January) there's a free Family Relax and Craft drop-in session at Oldham Children’s Library and Family Martial Arts, and at Gallery Oldham you can use pouring paint to create your own colourful fluid bear.
 
For full details and booking information visit[hla.oldham.gov.uk]([link removed])

 

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Your views matter: Have your say on the council’s budget
 
As we prepare to set the budget for the next financial year, we want to hear your views on our spending priorities, where savings could be made and what matters most to you.
 
Share your ideas and comments by taking part in our public consultation available [here.]([link removed])
 
Your feedback will help shape the Council’s decisions for the year ahead.

 

[Jo, Oldham's first Stepping Forward foster carer, with Cllr Shaid Mushtaq Cabinet Member Children and Young People]([link removed])

Could you step forward like Jo, Oldham’s first Stepping Forward Foster Carer?
 
Jo has made a huge difference to a young person's life by welcoming them into her family home from residential care.
 
Stepping Forward Foster Carers are specially trained and supported in providing a caring family home for a child ready to make the move from residential care - and this could also be for you.
 
You will receive specialist training, ongoing expert support and a generous financial package of over £75,000 per year.
 
Quote “Oldham Stepping Forward Scheme” when you call 0300 303 0321 or enquire online today[here.]([link removed])

 

[Seven young people seated in a circle on the floor holding hands]([link removed])

A new festival takes root as young voices take to the stage
 
The OPAN (Oldham Performing Arts Network) Youth Theatre Festival is launching next month, bringing together the incredible talent of local young people.

Over 100 students from 10 local schools will take to the stage at Oldham Theatre Workshop’s brand-new Studio 1 from Tuesday 3 to Friday 6 February 2026.
 
This new festival is delivered by Oldham Theatre Workshop in partnership with Oldham Coliseum Theatre as an exciting platform or Year 7 to Year 9 students.

At the heart of the festival is King of the Trees written by playwright Alice Bunker-Whitney, inspired by the tragic loss of the Sycamore Gap Tree.
 
Tickets are offered with a suggested donation to help support the running of the festival.

To book for Tuesday 3 February click[here]([link removed]). For Wednesday 4 February book [here]([link removed]).
 
For Thursday 5 February click [here]([link removed]). And for Friday 6 February book [here.]([link removed])

 

[Emily Trelore and Elliot Sparks from Pennine Mencap talking to news officer Katie Fitzpatrick The Oldham Cast]([link removed])

Why listening matters: A conversation with Pennine Mencap on The Oldham Cast
 
In this episode of Oldham Cast, we have a down-to-earth conversation with the Chairman of Pennine Mencap, Elliot Sparks and their activities coordinator Emily Trelore.
 
Pennine Mencap is a local charity that supports people with learning disabilities and their families, helping them feel included, supported and part of the community. Their work ranges from advice and advocacy to social activities and everyday support that many families across Oldham rely on.
 
We talk honestly about the challenges people face, why listening matters, and how organisations like Pennine Mencap make a real difference to lives in our town.
 
Watch [here.]( [link removed] )

 

[The historic Chadderton Town Hall with beautiful floral gardens bathed in sunlight ]([link removed])

Free wedding for one lucky couple at Chadderton town hall wedding fair
 
Chadderton Town Hall will throw open its doors for its first wedding fair from 11am–3pm on Sunday 25 January.
 
All couples who attend and complete a feedback form on the day will be entered into a free draw to win their wedding ceremony at Chadderton Town Hall free of charge.
 
The fair will feature over 20 exhibitors on hand to discuss their products and services, from florists to photographers, wedding cars to wedding cakes and so much more.
 
Springhill Hospice will be there with a vast array of wedding attire including bridal wear, suits and bridesmaids’ dresses lovingly donated to help raise funds for the hospice.

 
Read the full story [here.]([link removed])

 

Fancy some tasty food and drinks in Oldham town centre?
 
The Egyptian Room has you covered, with amazing deals for diners.
 
Pop in with a valid cinema ticket for the day and they’ll treat you to 10-per-cent off your food from Thursday to Sunday – just place your order at the bar (not through the app or a vendor).
 
Plus, don’t miss their amazing lunch deals with a variety of traders, something for everyone, available Tuesday to Friday, 12–3pm.

 

[Elvis performer Chris Connor in a white Elvis style jewelled jumpsuit ]([link removed])

All Shook Up in Oldham
 
It's now or never, as the World Famous Elvis starring Chris Connor takes to the stage at the Queen Elizabeth Hall.
 
Elvis performer Chris is set to bring the sound and swagger of The King, accompanied by his 12-piece live band The Steels and backing vocals from The Sweet Harmonies, to the town on Saturday 31 January at 7.30pm.
 
To book tickets click [here.]([link removed])

 

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