It’s 10 out of 10 for Manchester Day!
Welcome to a celebration of the city which has warmed the hearts of everyone involved: for ten years people have given their time, energy and ideas to come together and make things – costumes, floats, big puppets and small props… all made by hand out of materials like cardboard, cotton and recycled materials. Along the way, friendships have formed, new skills learnt, and conversations started between people who otherwise might never meet.
Manchester Day is always about more than a great day out… in the build up it involves diverse communities working with artists to create unique representations of their worlds in our city… from ideas about identity and sustainability to great dance moves – all under the creative eye of arts specialists Walk the Plank.
Have an amazing day … watch the stunning parade and the dazzling performances in The Squares, enjoy the delicious food and drink or make something to wear in the People’s Procession, or take home after.
Get creative in the Wow Zone!
St Ann's Square - 12 noon to 5pm
Come along and make your own parade hat to join the celebrations. Our parading experts will be on hand to show you how to strut your stuff while wearing your fabulous creation.
And at 5pm, everyone is welcome to join the ‘People’s Procession’ to promenade through the streets to reach the Manchester Day finale in Cathedral Gardens.
PARADE PLAZA
Outside Manchester Cathedral - 4pm to 6pm
For the first time ever, we’ll have some of the fantastic parade creations on display after the parade so you can get up close to these incredible works of art and take a selfie or two.
Parade
Manchester Day takes to the streets for its tenth amazing year. Here’s a flavour of what you’ll experience in this incredible parade.
The Parade
The spirit of Manchester
Cogs and wheels twist and turn. Make way for a magnificent head that weaves its way through the city, bound together by the colourful fabric of our communities.
Save our species
Let’s pull together to protect our planet. Keep your eyes peeled for a rare and endangered creature as she swings her way through the streets. How will we protect her?
Women of the world
Let’s give it up for the girls and celebrate strong womanhood amongst diverse cultures. Look up for a female figure who stands tall amongst the crowds. Look out for the girls who dance in the midst of the masses.
Ancient tales and mystical mascots
Magical characters come out to play and ancient tales are told on the streets. Watch out! There’s a goose on the loose and a friendly phoenix who bursts back to life.
Share your pics #ManchesterDay
Squares
The Squares - 12 Noon to 6pm
Celebrate 10 amazing years of Manchester Day with a spectacle for all the senses; be delighted by music, dance and performance from worldwide communities. Taste the delicious international flavours of food and drink on offer.
St Ann’s Square
Music, Dance, Create!
Get creative in the WoW Zone as St Ann’s Square is transformed into a hive of activity and a marvellous making station. There’s plenty of ways to get involved. Have a go at making your own fantastic hat. Move your feet to the beat and join in the People’s Procession at 5pm.
Cathedral Gardens
Spectacle and surprise!
Don’t miss a beat! Join the party in Cathedral Gardens.
Expect an eclectic mix of music to celebrate the best in Manchester sounds, from uplifting choirs, The RNCM Session Orchestra and foot stomping 90’s rave classics from Mr. Wilson’s Second Liners.
Roll up, roll up and give a 10 out of 10 to Circus House as they dazzle the crowds with a showstopping aerial performance. Marvel at local talents Chameleon Youth as they bring their moves and energy to the square.
This is the place to be for the finale at 5.30pm, get ready for some big surprises…
Exchange Square
The Manchester Day Market
The place to bag yourself a little piece of Manchester to take home with you. From Manchester-inspired art and prints to local artists’ exquisite jewellery, crafts and produce. The Manchester Shop will be there with its fantastic Manc themed apparel.
Manchester's Global Delights
The Manchester Food and Drink Festival has curated a fantastic line up of street food heroes, from tapas and Chinese dumplings, to gourmet burgers and fish and chips. For
a sugar fix there’ll be churros, bubble waffles and plenty of ice cream.
Manchester Day bars will also serve a selection of ales from the best Manchester breweries alongside delicious fizz, ciders, wines and soft drinks.
Enjoy