Tantalising technology, robots, AI. What will our future look like? And if we love and protect the natural world that is our home, what will the future look like then?
Into the Future will conjure a futuristic, fantastical and illuminating story, celebrating local artists, community talent and the spirit of Carnival, as night falls over the Northern Roots site.
Join your community as you explore Northern Roots woodland and immerse yourself in illuminating art that covers three themes…
Tantalising Technology – What will a future look like dominated by our own creations? One where robots rule the world and artificial intelligence rules our planet. How could we co-exist together?
Dystopian Futures – When we feed our greed, we cause havoc and mayhem everywhere we go. All of our inner fears will be released into this future that has no end. Are you brave enough to join us?
Love Our World – What would the future be like if we loved our world as much as we loved ourselves? We will celebrate all things Northern Roots, connecting ourselves back to nature through our fauna and flora in a beautiful display of colour, energy and love.
Meet intergalactic snail riders Sleepy Pete, Rosemary Ripple and Gastro Flash on an interactive journey into the future at Northern Roots!
Trail Start Times
Into the Future has three sections: Tantalising Technology, Fire Garden and Love Our World. Each timed trail guides you through all three sections in order.
Trail 1 – 6:30 – 8:20pm
Trail 2 – 7:10 – 9:00pm
Trail 3 – 7:50 – 9:40pm
Please arrive in good time and line up in front of the tent 10 minutes before your chosen trail time begins and please follow stewards instructions.
Missed your trail time slot? Enjoy roaming performers, free marshmallow toasting and a warm drink and sweet treat from DC Coffee while you wait.
Read our FAQs for more information on accessibility, traveling to Northern Roots and our facilities.
What you need to know
Northern Roots is located next to Alexandra Park on Kings Road, Oldham, OL8 2BJ. The site can be accessed on foot, bike or public transport, and is a 20 minute walk from Oldham town centre. Free parking will be available on Kings Road.
Illuminate Oldham
Illuminate, Oldham’s annual festival of light, is back in February 2025 for its 9th year! Since 2017 Illuminate has attracted audiences of over 35,000, showcased national artists, and invested in creating illuminated live performances through co-commissions with local artists.
Funding
‘Into the Future’ is made possible by funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.
