July is bursting with excitement in Manchester, and there's no better time to explore the city's vibrant cultural scene. From Manchester’s iconic Sounds of the City to hilarious antics at the Creatures Comedy Festival and the rich tapestry of South Asian artistry showcased at the Dialled In Festival, Manchester offers a diverse array of events that cater to all tastes. Whether you're a music, comedy or art enthusiast , Manchester has some special events and things to do in store for you this month. Explore our top picks of what’s on in the city this July, that are sure to make it a month to remember!
Manchester Day 2024
Mark your calendars for Manchester Day 2024, a spectacular celebration of the city's vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse communities. This annual event transforms the city centre into a lively hub of festivities, featuring an array of colourful parades, live music, dance performances, and engaging family-friendly activities. The theme for this year’s festivities is ‘Let the Games Begin’ and will feature free interactive entertainment designed to bring out the inner athlete in attendees, as the theme is inspired by the ‘International Summer of Sport’ due to the Olympics taking place this year. Don’t miss out on experiencing Manchester City Centre being transformed into the “biggest ever playground!”
Date: Saturday 27th July
More information: https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/manchester-day-2024-date-theme-29388061
Sounds of the City @ Castlefield Bowl
Sounds of the City is back! Taking over Manchester’s Castlefield Bowl for a series of separate music concerts featuring headliners The National, The Saw Doctors, Tom Grennan, Jungle and Hacienda Classical. Sounds Of The City has established itself as a staple part of the Manchester music scene with some of the most acclaimed live artists taking to the stage every year.
Date: from Thursday 4th – Saturday 13th July
More information: https://www.manchestertheatres.com/whats-on/castlefield-bowl_manchester
The Night Market UK @ Fairfield Social
The Night Market UK is heading to Manchester for its third year! Previously taking place at Victoria Baths and Love Factory, this year it will be taking over the entire Fairfield Social Club. Every area of the venue, including The Club, Shed, Back Room and Garden, will be bustling with over 60 fantastic artists, crafters and more unique small businesses. While exploring the markets there will be stellar DJ Clara B from Eve’s Drop Collective, and delicious Street Food can be found in the Garden courtesy of Isit Kitchen.
Date: Friday 26th July
More information: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/the-night-market-uk/the-night-market-uk-manchester-summer-24/e-obrdvz
Manchester Craft Beer Festival @ Mayfield Depot
Beer enthusiasts, mark your calendars! The Manchester Craft Beer Festival is back, promising an unforgettable celebration of the finest craft brews. Held at the Depot Mayfield, this festival showcases 500+ beers from over 80 breweries. Attendees can look forward to unlimited tastings, discovering unique and innovative brews, and meeting the passionate brewers behind them. In addition to fantastic beer, the festival features live music, delicious street food, and a vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur or just looking for a great time, the Manchester Craft Beer Festival is guaranteed to be a fun and memorable experience with over 8,000 attendees!
Date: Friday 5th - Saturday 6th July 2024
More information: https://manchestercraftbeerfestival.com/
The Greater Manchester Fringe Festival
The Greater Manchester Fringe is a vibrant arts festival that unfolds across the Greater Manchester borough for the full length of June, annually. There are over 100 shows spanning various genres with a medley of talent from both emerging and established artists from all corners of the artistic world that bring a mix of theatre, comedy, music and more! Some of the venues used for the performances include The Art Garden at Whitworth Gallery, Gullivers Lounge, HOME, 53two and many more! Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the local arts scene and discover new talent.
Date: Friday July 1 - Sunday July 31
More information: https://greatermanchesterfringe.co.uk/
Euros Pop up / Brewski arrival in Ancoats
Brewksi has launched a new pop-up sports bar in Ancoats on Cutting Room Square especially for the Euros! Located in, what used to be, Sports Bar Second City, it offers the perfect spot to catch all the Euros action. It’s free entry and you don’t need bookings to guarantee a spot either, you can simply turn up and enjoy the lively atmosphere. When the tournament is over, this spot will transform into the popular Brewski restaurant, known for its innovative sharing platters of delicious North American inspired cuisine. From in-house made slider buns to salted caramel snickerdoodle brownie pies, Brewski offers American comfort food with a twist. Pair this with great drinks, excellent service, and a soulful soundtrack, and you're in for the ultimate dining experience. We can’t wait to have it around the corner!
Date: Ancoats Euro’s Pop Up - Friday 14th June – Sunday 14th July
Brewski – Coming soon!
More information: https://brewskirestaurants.com/
Garage Nation Day Party @ Progress Centre
A celebration of the best of UK Garage music returns to Manchester at the! Garage Nation has long been celebrated as a pioneer in the UK garage scene, showcasing the best of the genre's talent and pushing boundaries with each event. With a reputation for delivering high energy performances and an electric atmosphere, Garage Nation continues to excite audiences across the country, keeping the UK garage spirit alive and thriving. Garage Nation promises a day filled with chart-topping hits and underground anthems that will keep the crowd dancing from start to finish.
Date: Saturday 6th July
More information: https://progress.uk.com/event/garage-nation-summer-open-air-day-time-party
Dialled in Festival of South Asian Artistry @ Niamos, Hulme
This festival is a celebration of the rich and diverse creativity emerging from South Asian communities. Organized by the artist-led platform Dialled In, the event aims to spotlight the breadth of South Asian talent through a dynamic mix of music, art, and culture. Attendees can expect an entertaining line-up that includes ground-breaking music performances, thought-provoking visual arts, and engaging cultural activities. The festival is renowned for creating inclusive spaces where both established and emerging artists can showcase their work in an immersive way that highlights the evolving landscape of South Asian artistry in the UK and beyond.
Date: Saturday 20th July
More information: https://www.dialled-in.com/about
Creatures Comedy Festival @ Corner Boy, NQ
Spanning over ten days, Manchester will host the Creatures Comedy Festival, offering a hilarious lineup of over 30 comedy acts. This festival provides Manchester residents with exclusive pre-Fringe access to performances before they head to the world's largest arts festival. Featuring a mix of internationally renowned comedians and local favourites, the Creatures Comedy Festival promises a diverse array of humour that ensures there’s something for everyone. A great opportunity to catch top-tier comedy in the heart of Manchester before it hits the global stage!
Date: Friday 19th July – Friday 28th July
More information: https://www.creaturescomedy.com/festival