A giant 30ft baby has appeared in Rotherham town centre, capturing attention and symbolising the town’s celebration of new life, creativity and future generations.
The installation represents the 13 babies born into Rotherham Maternity Services every day, serving as a powerful reminder of new beginnings and the town’s ongoing story.
The installation forms part of a major event, The Birthday Party, which will bring Rotherham’s year as the world’s first Children’s Capital of Culture to a spectacular close on Friday, March 20.
A towering 30ft baby, dramatic fire displays, an enchanting bedtime story, and a youth-led live music takeover are set to transform the town centre for the finale. The large-scale celebration will take place across multiple locations, creating a vibrant and immersive experience for visitors of all ages.
During the day, a programme designed primarily for local schools will take place, though it will remain open for the public to enjoy. The celebrations will then build into a major evening event starting at 6pm, promising an unforgettable atmosphere in the heart of the town.
The evening programme will see the Fire Garden light up the town centre from 6pm through to 9pm, while walkabout performers, creative workshops and live music will entertain crowds during the first hour. At 7pm, rapper OneDa will take to the stage alongside young Rotherham musicians, followed by The Birthday Party show at 7.30pm. Live performances continue with Rotherham band Ozymandias at 8pm, before Sheffield MC KDot closes the night with a set running from 8.30pm until 9pm.
Taking place in Rotherham town centre on Friday, March 20, the free event runs from 6pm to 9pm and promises to be a birthday party the town will never forget.
Organisers say the event is not only a celebration of the past year but also a reflection of Rotherham’s future, placing children and young people at the centre of its cultural vision.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to attend and be part of a landmark moment for the town, as Rotherham signs off its historic year with a bold and imaginative celebration.
