City-wide celebration Salford100 is set to explore the past, celebrate the present and imagine the future of Salford through a series of art commissions and community events, which all kicked off last month. Each commission has been designed to ensure world-class culture is accessible to all, with a number of events free to attend, putting Salford on the map as a cultural hub for the arts.
One of these is the The Wagon Train, a pop-up festival inspired by local communities, which is set to visit several areas of Salford over the late May bank holiday and beyond. Walk the Plank’s pop-up festival will celebrate the heart and soul of Salford across several of its green spaces.
With free, family-friendly entertainment throughout the month — and more planned for the summer — visitors can expect music, poetry, play space, karaoke, talent competitions and more, in a programme co-created with Salford’s local community groups.
The Wagon Trail schedule (all drop-in, no booking required)
Saturday 23 May, 5pm–9pm — Seedley Pavilion, Buile Hill Park
Coinciding with Buile Hill Park’s 150th anniversary, the opening event features performances from local artists, The Seedley Salford Strummers ukulele band, and activities for all ages including a badge‑making workshop with Salford Badge Club and a drop‑in croquet tournament.
Sunday 24 May, 2pm–6pm — Albert Park, Broughton
Residents can enjoy an afternoon celebrating all things Broughton and the 150th anniversary of Albert Park. Just Junkies’ Trash Panda project will run hands‑on recycling‑themed art activities, and food from Doosti Friendship Group will be available throughout the afternoon.
Bank Holiday Monday 25 May, 1pm–5pm — Ordsall Park, Ordsall
Marking Ordsall Park’s 150th anniversary, the programme includes a parade around the park and music from Jane and Mike Band, Salford Strummers and the Ski Band.
Saturday 30 May, 1pm–4.30pm — Parr Fold Park, Worsley
The day begins with a Whit Walk‑inspired procession from Little Hulton to Parr Fold Park (11am–1pm) via the Loop Line, featuring live music from Farnworth and Walkden Brass Band, the MAPAS Community Choir, stilt walkers and Peel’s Amateur Drama Group.
From 1pm, the celebrations continue in Parr Fold Park with performances from Farnworth and Walkden Brass Band, MAPAS Community Choir and Daytime Singers, plus free face painting.
More events will take place throughout the summer, with a grand finale scheduled for October. Further information is available here.
Liz Pugh, Co‑Founder and Creative Producer of Walk the Plank, said: “Our cultural programme will uncover talent and bring communities together at local events throughout the summer, and our finale this autumn when the Wagon Train’s journey reaches its climax with a major celebration, in classic Walk the Plank style, at Buile Hill.”
Reflecting on Salford’s role in Walk the Plank’s history, she added: “When Walk the Plank first sailed up the Ship Canal back in 1992, I didn’t think we’d still be here 34 years later. The City of Salford has made us welcome and I’m glad we can repay that warm welcome by creating some amazing events this summer.”