15 fabulous photos from the launch of CultureDale celebrating 50 years of Calderdale

Throughout the day on Saturday (April 13) there were a number of events to showcase culture, creativity and talent at venues across the town – from music and dancing, to art and workshops.

The Year of Culture (CultureDale) is a 12-month celebration of Calderdale turning 50 on April 1, 2024 – a landmark moment in the borough’s story – and marks the ultimate year for the Vision 2024 for Calderdale.

The CultureDale opening celebration event had activities split between The Piece Hall, Dean Clough, Halifax Borough Market and across Halifax town centre.

A number of events are set to take place throughout the year.

They will include a community festival at People’s Park in Halifax, a children’s and families’ creative roadshow, a Youth Music Takeover, community-led performances – even on a canal boat – a creative writing festival, an arts and health festival, a film competition, and more to be announced.

Bobsie Robinson, Calderdale Council’s Cultural Service Manager, said: “We were blown away by the amazing local talent and the turnout at our CultureDale opening celebrations. Thank you to everyone who took part in, and came along to, the brilliant events that put Calderdale’s creativity centre-stage.

“They were just a taste of what’s to come over the next year, and now we’re excited to bring festivals, carnivals, fairs, exhibitions, performances, volunteering opportunities and more for everyone to enjoy. Culture has the power to bring people together, get us active, boost our wellbeing and help our towns and places to regenerate and thrive.

“Our hope is that, by the end of the Year of Culture, more people than ever before will be empowered to get involved in the culture that makes Calderdale so distinctive, and which is a key part of our Vision 2024 for the borough.”

Here are 15 pictures from the CultureDale launch event.