Stockport's Spectacular Sunday

Stockport’s Spectacular Sunday proved to be a huge success as thousands of visitors headed to the town centre for a day of free entertainment and celebrations.

Proving to be a huge hit with families for the second year running, this year’s event, organised by Stockport Council, Totally Stockport BID and Merseyway Shopping Centre, saw hundreds of performers take to the town’s shopping streets with over 50 free family shows.

Despite the wet weather, Merseyway reported an 80% increase in footfall compared to an average Sunday, and with some businesses reporting a 30% increase in sales, the carnival-style celebrations had a huge impact across the town centre.

With entertainment on every corner, visitors enjoyed an array of shows and performances at a variety of locations, including Merseyway Shopping Centre, Suffragette Square, The Underbanks, Market Place and Warren Street. Stockport Air Raid Shelters, Stockport Museum and Staircase House were also open from 11am – 4pm, ensuring there was something for everyone on this magical day out.

Guaranteeing entertainment for the whole family, Merseyway provided a winter wonderland experience, where visitors discovered an enchanting Living Snow Globe, Roller Skating Presents, the cheeky National Elf Service and giant Jacks of Frost. Carlos Airhead’s balloon antics, comedy duo, Grumpy Grandads and hilarious Rocket Man, Elton Wrong kept everyone laughing, while the holiday atmosphere was set with seasonal tunes from live brass bands, local performers and festive musicians.

Providing a truly unique Christmas adventure, Market Place was buzzing as they welcomed ARTIZANI Desert Island Discs, and the Walkabout Penguins, while across The Underbanks, the hilarious Spurting People human fountain made sure spirits were high in the pouring rain. The carnival procession was also a huge hit across the town, seeing giant puppets and live music performers make their way from Merseyway to Suffragette Square.

Cllr Frankie Singleton, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Sport said, “What an incredible day for Stockport! It was amazing to see so many families enjoying our Spectacular Sunday. The festive cheer, amazing performances, and a buzzing atmosphere really showed off the best of Stockport. A massive thank you to everyone who came along and to the talented performers and organisers who made it all happen. What a way to kick off the festive season—Stockport at its absolute best!”

Shaun Freeman-Jones, BID Manager at Totally Stockport said, “We hope all Stockport visitors had a fantastic day in our amazing town centre for Spectacular Sunday. The rain didn’t stop play and the town was filled with fun and laughter. We’d like to thank all the partners that made the day a success including our brilliant local businesses”

Victoria Nichol, Centre Manager at Merseyway Shopping Centre said, “We’re absolutely thrilled with the success of this year’s Spectacular Sunday in Stockport! Once again, despite the rain, we were amazed by the incredible turnout and the festive spirit everyone brought with them. It was heartwarming to see so many visitors braving the weather to engage with our performers and celebrate the start of the Christmas season. I’d like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to everyone who came along and made the event so special—your enthusiasm truly made it unforgettable!”

Stockport’s Spectacular Sunday was part funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.