Thousands gathered at Alexandra Park for the Open Call Festival, a community event that has been running for the past 12 years.
On the 18th and 19th July, the atmosphere was buzzing as children and adults enjoyed attractions including a merry-go-round, a ski jump coaster ride and many others, alongside a variety of food and drink stalls.
Other activities included an Omar and Hannah meet and greet, an Open Call Sports Day, a penalty shoot-out and bouncy castles.
Isa, 18, a teacher who has volunteered at the community event for the past three years, said he initially signed up to improve his CV. However, seeing how the money raised was used opened his eyes to the impact donations can have.
He said: “What they do with the money is really inspirational. It melts your heart and makes you realise how privileged we are. You may have a pound, but there is nothing much you can do with it here, however that pound can do wonders across the world.
“I really enjoyed it, as it was really engaging for youngsters and older people alike.”
There was no entry fee, but organisers and volunteers encouraged visitors to donate to charitable causes.
Another volunteer, Hasan, 19, said he enjoyed volunteering and wanted to support the cause because he believes it is important.
He added: “People do contribute if you ask nicely. Most people are more than willing to donate when you tell them about how the money will be used.”
Event host Hasan Ali described the festival as a “very big success” and said the good weather had helped attract larger than expected crowds.
He said: “More than 5,000 people have attended. There are people everywhere. We have had much more footfall than previous years. To see smiles on people’s faces and people appreciating the festival is a great feeling. It will go out with a big bang.”
Ali added that the main focus was to raise funds for the Al-Karimia Mosque in Oldham alongside the charity, Greengate Trust.
“If you haven’t come this year, you’ve definitely missed out,” he said. “This has been a massive success. The main aim is to get the community together to spread love, peace and unity and to also support people in need.”
A visitor, Shyan, said: “It’s a good environment and it has brought the community together where kids can come and play and have a day out. It brings families closer, and it was well organised.”
The festival concluded on Sunday evening after two days of fundraising and family entertainment.
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