More than 1,000 Morris Dancers are heading to Stockport this spring.

On Saturday 26 April, the town will be transformed as it hosts the 'National Day of Dance' attracting Morris dancers from across the country.

"This unmissable event promises to be the biggest, boldest and most bell-clanging gathering the North West has ever seen", a Merseyway spokesperson said.

"And it's quite possibly a record-breaking celebration of Morris and folk dance in the UK."

On the day, visitors can expect street performances, jam sessions and even dance offs at key locations around the town centre.

The event will run from 10.15am - 4.30pm.

Rounding off the day in true folk-style, there will also be an unmissable free Ceilidh at St Mary's Church, featuring a live folk band, pop-up craft beer bar and delicious street food.  

(Image - Merseyway / ECHO PR)

Thousands of visitors are expected, in addition to the dancers themselves. There will also be plenty of fun activities - such as craft workshops and giveaways - around the town centre.

The event is being funded by Totally Stockport - Stockport's business improvement district.

Shaun Freeman Jones, Totally Stockport manager said: "This is a huge win for Stockport. To have a massive, national celebration of Morris and folk dance right in the heart of the town is truly special, and a huge opportunity for Stockport to showcase its vibrancy, community spirit and rich cultural scene.

"The festival will not only bring an incredible spectacle, but also boost footfall and support local businesses. We can't wait to welcome dancers from all over the country - it's going to be an unforgettable day!". 

(Image - Merseyway / ECHO PR)

Cllr Helen Foster Grime, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Sport at Stockport Council, said: "It's a real honour for Stockport to host this national celebration of Morris dancing, welcoming groups from all over the country to our town.

"It's going to be a fantastic celebration of tradition, community and fun. It's events like this that bring our communities together, fill our streets with joy, and make Stockport such a fantastic place. We can't wait to see everyone dancing and enjoying this unforgettable day!" 

Victoria Nichol, Centre Manager at Merseyway said: "Last year, we had the pleasure of welcoming Adlington Morris Men to Merseyway Shopping Centre, and it was a fantastic experience. The energy, the atmosphere and the sheer joy it brought to our shoppers was incredible. Now, to have an event on this scale happening across the town centre is absolutely, amazing and it's fantastic to see Stockport host an event that is so unique." 

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