6 of the best events to attend in Manchester this year

With Manchester now opening up, there are plenty of things to do in the city once again and a lot of events still taking place this year.

With full restrictions being lifted next week, it’s time to get back out there and get re-acquainted with our wonderful city.

Take a look at what’s on in Manchester  with some of the best events to attend this year, ranging from music festivals to cinema screenings and gigs.

Secretcity- Fright Night- Midsommar

When: Thursday 22nd July

Where: Event City

If you like all things spooky then the scary movie series being put on by Secretcity may be what you’re looking for. A drive-in cinema experience, this outdoor event space lets you cower from behind the seat of your car as all kinds of horrible things happen on the screen.

So if you’re a fan of watching Florence Pugh be traumatised in the idyllic setting of Sweden then don’t miss out on getting your chance to see Midsommar, which became a hit in 2019. With plenty of snacks and drinks on offer too, this is a twist on your usual cinema experience.

Jika Jika presents Luigi Madonna

When: Saturday 31st July

Where: Square One

This is a great opportunity to go and explore Manchester’s latest venue Square One, an open-air club that is going to play host to a range of world-renowned DJ talents. It’s situated in the heart of Manchester city centre, close to Piccadilly station and will be a haven for partygoers.

This thrilling lineup of Luigi Madonna, Nancy, Rebuke and Opus Klien is a tantalising prospect that will show off this new space in all of its glory. With Jika Jika taking the reins of the events it’s guaranteed to be a good time.

XXL presents Charlotte De Witte

When: Friday 30th July

Where: 02 Victoria Warehouse

Charlotte De Witte will be bringing her techno expertise to the decks when she visits Manchester this year. Headlining a show that will also see Wallis and Kander also joining her for a rave that is going to be going all night long.

The floorspace of 02 Victoria Warehouse will come alive with bodies feeling the rhythm of irresistible grooves. It’s a great chance to see such a loved DJ in action at the peak of their powers.

Parklife festival

When: Saturday 11th– Sunday 12th September

Where: Heaton Park

Every year Parklife festival comes around and puts Manchester in a carnival atmosphere, a whole weekend that is always buzzing with excitement. It’ll be a pleasure to once again welcome some of the biggest names from across the world to Heaton Park for a celebration of the very best in music.

Grime, hip-hop, R&B, pop, you name it Parklife will have it as they bring in the most popular contemporary artists. Over 100 artists will make their way over for the weekend leaving you spoilt for choice. It’s one of the most sought-after events in the UK.

Manchester Psych Fest

When: Saturday 4th September

Where: Various venues (YES, Gorilla, Deaf Institute, Dancehouse, 02 Ritz)

This year Manchester Psych Fest returns with as good a lineup as ever. Known for bringing the finest psychedelic talents to the city, they have a huge name headlining in Stereolab. The rest of the lineup is packed full of established bands and upcoming artists who will all be looking to make waves over the next few years.

Each act has an element of psychedelia of course whether it be attached to rock or folk. Other entertainment will also be on display throughout the day with art installations and DJ’s also playing. A range of top-quality street vendors will be around too to make sure you never go hungry or thirsty.

Homobloc

When: November

Where: To be announced

Homobloc really made an impression with its first edition in 2019, now it will be returning this year to deliver the all-inclusive party that Manchester deserves. It’ll come with an all-star lineup too if the last edition is anything to go by where they had the likes of The Blessed Madonna and Robyn.

This queer bloc party is open to all and a haven for misfits, where they aim to throw the biggest celebration in Manchester. A flamboyant funfair that is a treat on the eyes, there’s a special community feeling to this one.