Free festival is fun for all
THE 2018 Cheetham Cultural Festival opens this week, with the theme ‘All Different, All Equal.’
The festival, with its wide range of free events, showcases the unique diversity of the Cheetham area, promoting values of tolerance and respect for all, regardless of faith, culture or community.
The ‘All Different, All Equal’ theme is also the motto of Oasis Temple Academy, which will host the opening ceremony on Thursday at 1.30pm.
Popular returning events include an Irish culture showcase at the Irish World Heritage Centre, an evening of uplifting gospel music at the New Testament Church of God (formerly St John’s church) and the Central Gurdwara open day, where attendees can learn about the Sikh faith while enjoying delicious free food.
This year, new events include the Festival Fling - an afternoon of familyfriendly activities by key Manchester cultural organisations including the Royal Exchange theatre, National Football Museum and Museum of Science and Industry.
The Manchester Jewish Museum will host an afternoon of circus skills workshops and this year, the festival will have its first parade along Cheetham Hill Road, featuring a stilt-walker and Sikh drummers.
Gareth Redston, chair of the Cheetham Cultural Festival, said: “If you’ve had the pleasure of attending the festival before, you’ll be delighted to see the return of some incredibly popular events and our festival continues to grow, with brand new events and our first-ever parade.
“With such a diverse programme, you’re certain to find something to enjoy.
“This year’s free festival is the 15th and the continued success of this annual celebration is a tribute to the hard work and dedication of all the people who give their time to make it happen.”
The free festival runs until September. 30. Visit www.facebook.com/ CheethamFest.