Premier Kia backs Feel Good Family Picnic with summer of fun planned across the borough

Friday, 30 May 2025 20:46

By David Murphy

Councillor Sue Smith invited Kia Genius Chris Bowyer and service advisor Kelly Barnes for a picnic in Queen’s Park, one of four locations for this summer’s Feel Good Family Picnic to thank them and discuss plans

Family events return this July with free music, shows and outdoor entertainment in four Rochdale parks

Popular family events are back this summer as the Feel Good Family Picnic returns to parks across the borough with car dealership Premier Kia confirmed as the main sponsor.

The council run events will take place from 29 July to 1 August and are expected to attract thousands once again after drawing more than 15,000 people last year. They will be held in Rochdale, Middleton, Littleborough and Heywood, with each day packed full of free music, shows, activities and entertainment for children of all ages.

The picnic series kicks off on Tuesday 29 July at Rochdale Town Hall Square before moving to Limefield Playing Fields in Middleton on Wednesday 30 July. Hare Hill Park in Littleborough hosts the event on Thursday 31 July, with the final stop at Queen’s Park in Heywood on Friday 1 August.

Premier Kia, based on Molesworth Street in Rochdale town centre, will be showcasing a range of their latest electric cars at each event including the Kia EV3, the Kia EV6 and the Kia EV9, recently named 2024 World Car of the Year. The dealership will also be promoting the events to customers across Greater Manchester.

Ben Bird, director at Premier Kia, said: “We’ve proudly supported Rochdale Feel Good Festival since 2018 and it’s great to now be part of the Feel Good Family Picnic too. It’s all about families getting outside and enjoying time together during the summer holidays – and we’re really happy to be involved again this year.”

This year’s theme: Co-operation

The theme for 2025’s events is ‘co-operation,’ celebrating community, creativity and shared experiences through arts and culture. Line-up details are due to be announced later this month.

Councillor Sue Smith, the council’s cabinet member for communities and co-operation, recently met Premier Kia staff at Queen’s Park in Heywood to thank them for their backing and discuss plans.

“We’re very grateful to Premier Kia for their continued support,” said Coun Smith. “Their sponsorship means we can offer even more for families to enjoy. Expect a packed programme of free live performances, music, activities and magical entertainment in our beautiful parks.”

The Feel Good Family Picnic is part of the borough’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2025–26. A full programme of arts, exhibitions and festivals is being planned to celebrate Rochdale’s rich heritage and creative talent.

The picnic events are organised by Rochdale Borough Council in partnership with Without Walls, a national consortium bringing outdoor arts to local communities. The programme is also funded by the government’s Shared Prosperity Fund and Greater Manchester Combined Authority.