What to do in Manchester this summer

Manchester in summer is a city transformed. The familiar drizzle gives way to sunshine, green spaces burst into life, and the streets buzz with music, art, food, and good energy. Whether you’re a local looking to shake up your weekends or a visitor planning a northern city break, there’s something for everyone in this year’s jam-packed summer calendar. 

Here’s your ultimate guide for the best things to do in Manchester this summer. 

Music for the Senses Art Trail 

7th July – 31st August 2025 

This summer, Manchester becomes a giant open-air gallery. Music for the Senses is a unique art trail celebrating the city’s legendary music culture past and present. During these dates you can expect: 

• Hand painted guitar sculptures across 41 iconic locations. 

• 9 guitars donated by musicians, including major names like Oasis, Ed Sheeran, and Brian May. 

• 4 vibrant murals. 

• 2 jaw dropping installations ‘Guitar Street’ and ‘Cathedral of Sound’. 

MCR Live Hub 

4th July – 28th September 2025 

The MCR Live Hub brings a non-stop line up of live music, pop up bars, street food, and market takeovers to the heart of the city. Here you can expect DJ sets, themed weekends, full of vinyl fairs, rum festivals, and artisan markets from 11am to 11pm daily.  

Courts Club Summer Series 

5th May – 30th September 2025 

This open-air venue has quickly become one of Manchester’s best loved summer destinations, and this summer it’s back with a mix of: 

• Live DJs and themed club nights. 

• Street food and cocktail vans. 

• Outdoor cinema screenings. 

• Community events including trivia nights, food battles, and basketball pop ups.  

Heaton Park Food and Drink Festival: A Feast in the Park 

2nd August – 3rd August 2025 

If you’re a foodie, or looking for a perfect family day out, this one’s for you! Held in the iconic Heaton Park, this two-day festival offers: 

• Global street food from over 60 vendors. 

• An artisan market 

• Live chef demos and cooking classes. 

• Live music and performers. 

• Festival bars, including craft beer and cocktail tents. 

• A mobile farm. 

Manchester Caribbean Carnival 

9th August – 10th August 2025 

This year, get yourself down to the Manchester Carnival, a two-day explosion of colour, rhythm, and joy. Celebrate Caribbean culture with: 

• The carnival parade. 

• Live music, dance, and steel drums. 

• Food stalls full of Caribbean cuisine. 

• Family areas. 

Manchester Pride Festival  

15th August – 24th August 2025 

Manchester Pride is more than a party, it’s the perfect way to celebrate love, equality, and LGBTQ+ culture.  

This year, you can expect to see: 

• The Manchester Pride Parade 

• The Gay Village party, full of cabaret, drag shows, silent discos, and fairground rides. 

New to this year is the addition of the all-new Mardi Gras at Depot Mayfield and Freight Island, featuring live music, DJs, and drag queens. 

Screen on the Docks 

2nd June – 31st August 2025 

Who needs a cinema when you’ve got the open air and waterfront backdrop. Screen on the Docks is back this summer with a packed schedule of outdoor films. Even better, it’s free! 

With so much happening across the city, there’s no better way to experience it all than a ride with Manchester Taxi Tours. Whether you’re here for the music, the food, or the sports, skip the crowds and discover Manchester with your own local guide.