Get ready, folks! Stalybridge is about to be swept off its feet by an extraordinary character this September! Meet Farrah the fox, a magnificent 5m high puppet who's taller than a double-decker bus!

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On Saturday, September 9th, Farrah will make a grand entrance in Stalybridge, zooming into town on a scooter. And why is this happening, you may ask? Well, it's all part of an arts festival called WEAVE!

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WEAVE is no ordinary festival. It's a fusion of free carnival performances, lively brass band music, captivating morris dancing, street theater, canal activities, and creative workshops. The event is part of Historic England's collaborative 'Hi!Street Fest' project, celebrating our beloved high streets and the wonderful people who cherish and nurture them.

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Stalybridge is one of just six lucky towns chosen in the UK to host Farrah and be part of this incredible project! When Farrah arrives in Stalybridge, she won't be alone. She'll be greeted by a giant animated mill boy puppet and his trusty friend. Together, they'll introduce Farrah to the town's rich cotton heritage and give her a glimpse of its vibrant cultural scene today.

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If you're eager to be part of the action, register your interest to be a part of the 'Hi! Street Fest - Cotton Carnival Parade' performances. Whether you're a percussionist, dancer, or just want to volunteer and be part of the crew on the big day! Visit www.globalgrooves.org/get-involved/cotton-carnival and let the excitement begin!

This event is made possible through a partnership between Tameside Council, the Bridge Cultural Consortium, Mossley based arts organization Global Grooves, and outdoor arts company Emergency Exit Arts (EEA) and funded by Historic England, Arts Council England, and the Heritage Lottery Fund.

We spoke to Tameside Council Assistant Executive Member for Culture, Heritage, and Digital Inclusivity, Cllr Sangita Patel, who couldn't contain her excitement. She said,

"This is such an exciting project to take a new look at the high street, attract visitors and bring people together in a home grown, community celebration for everyone to get involved in and enjoy. It is also a wonderful opportunity to build on Stalybridge's Town of Culture legacy and celebrate local arts and talent.

“I’m very much looking forwarding to welcoming Farrah and showing off to a wider audience what Stalybridge has to offer.”

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