Saturdays on the Square: Fun for everyone in Ashton

Family entertainment will take centre stage at Saturdays on the Square - a new monthly event for Ashton town centre.

Building on the success of the previously trialled Fridays on the Square, this initiative is funded by the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) for Communities and Place and organised by Tameside Council.

Saturdays on the Square will feature musical and family-friendly performances suitable for all ages. The street performers will move throughout the town centre, ensuring everyone can experience the fun, regardless of where they are.

The first event will run on Saturday 22 June 2024, and four further pilot events are scheduled for 20 July, 24 August, 21 September and 26 October. Entertainment will take place from 11am to 3pm, allowing ample time for families and individuals to participate in various activities and enjoy the roaming performances.

Due to the ongoing transformation of Market Square, the events are designed to be flexible, with performers moving around to adapt to construction plans as they progress.

The goal of Saturdays on the Square is to bring vibrancy to Ashton town centre and celebrate its sense of community. The events will support local food vendors, retail shops and market traders, encouraging residents and visitors alike to buy local.

The first event on June 22 will feature an exciting lineup of performers, including larger than life quirky and friendly animal and themed characters alongside a diverse range of strolling musicians playing anything from dance to rock and roll and Latin themed tunes.

Councillor Sangita Patel, Tameside Council’s Assistant Executive Member for - Culture, Heritage, Participation & Sport said: “Fridays on the Square were a brilliant success last year and great way of connecting the local community, businesses and partners together to highlight the towns and Tameside’s cultural arts and creative offer. Using the UKPSF funding we want to create and event which will also support our local businesses by bringing people into the town centre at the weekend but this time with a daytime event for people to enjoy.

“Join us for Saturdays on the Square and be part of a dynamic and creative celebration in Ashton. Bring your family and friends to enjoy a day filled with music, fun activities, and community spirit.”

Saturdays on the Square has been fully funded from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund for Communities and Place for the Ashton Creative Improvement District.

For more information about UKSPF, please visit www.greatermanchester-ca.gov.uk/UKSPF