Live theatre performances, music from a brass band and a children’s book launch will take place when a historic Salford park celebrates its 180th birthday this August.
Peel Park is preparing to commemorate the milestone with a free-to-attend day of entertainment, history and community celebrations on 22 August.
Ahead of the big day, organisers are inviting anyone born on 22 August to take part in a special cake-cutting ceremony.
They are on the hunt for people to share the celebration with and have asked Salford residents who share a birthday with the park to put themselves forward.
“Let our celebration become your celebration too,” a spokesperson for the event said.
Those lucky enough to have their birthday twinned with the beautiful Salford Park will forge a connection with one of the city’s most historic green spaces.
Located on the Crescent, Peel Park has played a significant role in the city’s history since opening in 1846. Over the years, the park has welcomed countless visitors, including renowned artist L.S. Lowry, and even served as a filming location for the classic film Hobson’s Choice.
Queen Victoria officially opened the park, which underwent a major refurbishment in 2017 and remains a popular green space close to Manchester city centre.
Today, the park is not only valued for its heritage but also for its wildlife and community activities. It is home to the popular Peel Parkrun, which regularly attracts around 500 runners every Saturday morning.
To mark the anniversary, a special birthday celebration will take place from 11am to 3pm on 22 August. Visitors can enjoy a programme featuring live theatre performances by Barton Theatre Group, music from the Farnworth and Walkden Brass Band, the Wagon Train, guided walks, a children’s book launch and trail, and a variety of other family-friendly activities.
The event has been organised jointly by the Salford Ranger Team and the Friends of Peel Park and is open to everyone free of charge, with no ticket required. Organisers are encouraging visitors to bring a picnic or enjoy refreshments from food vendors attending the event.
Anyone born on 22 August wishing to take part in the cake-cutting ceremony can contact organisers via peelpark@hotmail.com or through the Friends of Peel Park social media channels.
With a packed programme of entertainment and activities planned, organisers are hoping the event will provide a fitting tribute to one of Salford’s most historic and cherished public spaces.
