Oldham Writing Festival returns for its third year

The Oldham Writing Festival is back for its third year . . . promising an inspiring day packed with creativity, connection and celebration of the written word.

Organised by Cultureword - the North West’s leading writing development agency - the 2026 festival is set to be a vibrant jamboree of workshops, performances, advice sessions and opportunities for writers to meet and share ideas. 

Taking place this Saturday (February 21) at Studio 1853 and Gallery, Osborne Mill, Waddington Street, Oldham, the festival runs from 11.30am to 4pm and welcomes budding writers, poets, and established authors from across the region.  

Whether you are just starting out or already published, this is a must-attend event for anyone passionate about writing. 

The festival offers a dynamic programme designed to inform, inspire and connect the writing community: 

Festival Programme 

10.30am – Staff set-up  

11.30am – Registration, mingling and networking  

12.00pm – Welcome  

12.15pm – Readings from Oldham Poetry Magazine: “Play”  

12.45pm – Prose writing workshop led by Ella  

1.45pm – Open Mic (sign up via ella@cultureword.org.uk)  

2.15pm – Lunch break (prepared lunch bag) and local book stalls  

3.15pm – Announcement of upcoming Cultureword projects in Oldham  

3.30pm – Announcement of Stand Up! competition winners, followed by readings  

4.00pm – Close 

From poetry and prose to performance and publishing insights, the Oldham Writing Festival continues to grow as a key date in the North West literary calendar, fostering talent and strengthening the region’s writing community.