Manchester is known for its vibrant culture, thriving music scene, rich history, and diverse events that draw in both locals and tourists throughout the year. In 2024, the city is set to host a fantastic array of events ranging from music festivals to sporting events, art exhibitions, and more. Whether you’re a fan of live music, sports, theatre, or food festivals, there’s something happening in Manchester for everyone. Here’s an extensive guide to the top events in Manchester for 2024, complete with all the details you need to plan your attendance.
1. Manchester International Festival (MIF)
Date: 4–21 July 2024
Location: Various venues across Manchester
Website: MIF Website
The Manchester International Festival is one of the city’s largest and most prestigious events, featuring a mix of performance art, theatre, music, and exhibitions. Since its launch in 2007, MIF has been renowned for its groundbreaking works by artists from around the world. Expect world premieres, exclusive events, and interdisciplinary projects pushing creative boundaries.
In 2024, MIF will once again take over various iconic locations across the city, including the brand-new Factory International, Manchester’s flagship arts space, which will play a key role in the festival.
Key Highlights:
- Immersive Installations: Art installations combining cutting-edge technology and storytelling.
- Live Performances: Music and theatre from international stars and up-and-coming talent.
- Workshops & Talks: Discussions with artists and behind-the-scenes insights into the creative process.
2. Parklife Festival
Date: 8–9 June 2024
Location: Heaton Park
Website: Parklife Festival
Parklife is one of the UK’s most popular music festivals, bringing together some of the biggest names in electronic, hip-hop, pop, and alternative music. Held annually at Heaton Park, Parklife attracts tens of thousands of attendees and delivers an unforgettable weekend of music, fun, and entertainment.
Key Highlights:
- Main Stage Performances: Expect headline performances from top international acts.
- Dance Arena: World-class DJs spinning house, techno, and drum & bass across multiple stages.
- VIP Area: For those looking for an enhanced festival experience, the VIP section offers exclusive bars, seating, and premium views.
3. Manchester Pride
Date: 23–26 August 2024
Location: Manchester’s Gay Village & Mayfield Depot
Website: Manchester Pride
Manchester Pride is one of the UK’s biggest LGBTQ+ celebrations. The festival features a colourful parade, live music performances, and a series of events aimed at promoting inclusivity, equality, and the celebration of diversity. The iconic Gay Village will once again be the heart of the festivities, while Mayfield Depot will host the main stage music acts.
Key Highlights:
- Pride Parade: Join the vibrant and visually spectacular march through Manchester city centre.
- The Gay Village Party: A multi-day celebration featuring live music, DJs, and entertainment.
- Candlelit Vigil: A poignant and moving vigil in Sackville Gardens, paying tribute to those lost to HIV/AIDS.
4. Manchester Christmas Markets
Date: 8 November–22 December 2024
Location: Albert Square, Piccadilly Gardens, and more
Website: Manchester Christmas Markets
The Manchester Christmas Markets are one of the city’s biggest seasonal attractions, drawing visitors from across the UK and beyond. Set in various locations around the city centre, the markets feature charming wooden stalls offering a range of festive foods, drinks, and gifts, making it a perfect spot to soak in the holiday spirit.
Key Highlights:
- Food & Drink: Sample traditional German bratwurst, mulled wine, and hot chocolate.
- Unique Gifts: Handmade crafts, Christmas decorations, and artisan gifts.
- Ice Rinks & Santa’s Grotto: Family-friendly attractions perfect for a festive day out.
5. Manchester Science Festival
Date: 18–28 October 2024
Location: Science and Industry Museum and various other venues
Website: Manchester Science Festival
The Manchester Science Festival offers a dynamic programme of events, from interactive exhibits to talks and workshops focused on making science accessible and exciting. Whether you’re into space exploration, climate change, or cutting-edge technology, the festival offers a range of experiences for all ages.
Key Highlights:
- Family Activities: Interactive exhibits and workshops that engage children and adults alike.
- Talks from Leading Scientists: Hear from experts in various fields about the latest scientific developments.
- Future Science: Explore innovations in AI, robotics, and sustainability.
6. Manchester Food and Drink Festival
Date: 26 September–7 October 2024
Location: Cathedral Gardens and other venues
Website: MFDF
Food lovers, mark your calendars! The Manchester Food and Drink Festival is the city’s annual celebration of its ever-evolving culinary scene. The festival features a host of pop-up restaurants, food markets, and special events designed to showcase local talent and international flavours.
Key Highlights:
- Food Stalls: Sample dishes from Manchester’s best street food vendors and restaurants.
- Live Cookery Demos: Watch top chefs create gourmet dishes in real-time.
- Festival Hub: The central meeting point at Cathedral Gardens with live music and plenty of food and drink.
7. Manchester Literature Festival
Date: 4–20 October 2024
Location: Central Library, HOME, and other venues
Website: Manchester Literature Festival
For literature enthusiasts, the Manchester Literature Festival is a must-attend event. The festival brings together writers, poets, and thinkers from around the world to celebrate the written and spoken word. It offers a blend of readings, panel discussions, and workshops.
Key Highlights:
- Author Talks: Hear from best-selling authors and emerging talent.
- Poetry Readings: A celebration of the power and beauty of poetry.
- Workshops: Writing workshops for aspiring authors looking to hone their craft.
8. Slam Dunk Festival North
Date: 25 May 2024
Location: Leeds (officially), but many attendees travel from Manchester
Website: Slam Dunk Festival
While technically held in Leeds, Slam Dunk Festival North draws many Manchester-based attendees who are fans of punk, metal, and alternative rock. The one-day festival is renowned for its energetic performances, mosh pits, and a diverse lineup of both legendary and up-and-coming bands.
Key Highlights:
- Punk Rock Legends: See performances from iconic bands of the genre.
- New Talent: Discover the next generation of punk and alternative artists.
- After-Parties: Manchester-based after-parties for those not ready to call it a night.
9. Great Manchester Run
Date: 19 May 2024
Location: Manchester City Centre
Website: Great Manchester Run
One of the UK’s biggest running events, the Great Manchester Run, welcomes runners of all abilities to take on a 10K or half-marathon course through the heart of Manchester. The run is well-known for its electric atmosphere, with live music along the route and thousands of supporters cheering from the sidelines.
Key Highlights:
- 10K & Half Marathon: Runners can choose between the shorter 10K or the more challenging half marathon distance.
- Live Entertainment: Bands and DJs line the course, providing an energy boost to runners.
- Charity Participation: Many participants raise money for their favourite charities.
10. Warehouse Project 2024
Date: 21 September 2024 – 1 January 2025
Location: Depot Mayfield
Website: The Warehouse Project
The Warehouse Project is Manchester’s premier electronic music event series, running from September through to New Year’s Day. Held at Depot Mayfield, the series features cutting-edge DJs and live acts from the worlds of house, techno, and drum & bass.
Key Highlights:
- Legendary DJs: Performances from global stars of the electronic music scene.
- Immersive Lighting & Sound: The Warehouse Project is known for its impressive production values.
- Special NYE Event: Ring in 2025 with a massive New Year’s Eve celebration.