Oldham's Big Bang celebrates moon landings

Date published: 15 October 2019

Relive the epic story of the world-renowned Apollo 11 moon landing during this year’s Big Bang Bonfire – one of Oldham’s biggest, loudest and most colourful events of the year.

Oldham Council has revealed details of this year's fireworks celebration, which will be themed around the ongoing celebrations for the 50-year anniversary of one of history’s greatest moments.  They promise an ‘atmospheric’ soundscape of fireworks that will bring the space mission back to life over Oldham Edge Playing Fields.

The display from double UK fireworks champion, Fantastic Fireworks, comes as part of a line-up of fire-themed entertainment, music and dance at this year’s free event which takes place on Bonfire Night (Tuesday 5 November).

The event ‘takes off’ from 5pm with funfair rides and mouth-watering food that is ‘out of this world’ from local stalls for visitors to enjoy.

The stage show then begins from 6pm with performances from Jubacana, a local youth-led, fusion music and performance project, and Pyronix who will be performing a breath-taking medieval show full of fire manipulation.

There will also be the lighting of the bonfire before the countdown begins to the grand fireworks finale which is visible from every corner of the borough.

One lucky child will get the chance to press the big red button to ‘launch’ this year’s fireworks show in front of thousands of people.

To enter your child into the draw and for more information on the event please visit: www.oldham.gov.uk/OldhamBigBang

Revolution 96.2 breakfast show host Elliot Eastwick will be leading proceedings throughout the night leading up to the fireworks display.

Leader of Oldham Council, Councillor Sean Fielding, said: “Our Big Bang bonfire is hugely popular with residents and we’ve got another spectacular line-up of free entertainment for all the family to enjoy this autumn.

“So why go to the trouble of buying your own fireworks when you can come to our event, enjoy delicious food and drink and see top class entertainment, including some of the best fire display and fireworks professionals in the country, all within a safe environment?

“We work closely alongside the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and partners as part of the annual Treacle campaign to keep people safe from fires, injuries and nuisance.

“And as part of that, the Big Bang Bonfire helps significantly in easing the extreme pressure that can be put on our emergency services around this time of year.

“May I take this opportunity to wish you all a safe and enjoyable Halloween and Bonfire night and I hope to see you at our event.”

Build-up to the Big Bang Bonfire will be covered on-air by Revolution 96.2, including the latest weather and parking information. If weather conditions are thought to pose any threat to public safety in the build-up to the event, some aspects could be cancelled.

All council-owned town centre car parks and on-street pay and display parking bays will be free of charge from 3pm on the day. Demand is expected to be high so you are advised to use public transport where possible.

The following items will not be permitted on site and will be confiscated; alcohol, gazebos, fires, barbecues, fireworks, sparklers or any naked flames.

Children under 16 years old must be accompanied by a responsible adult, and dogs are not allowed into the site with the exception of assistance dogs.

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