Manchester Day 2026

¡Hola Manchester! Join us for a free city‑wide celebration packed with colour, creativity and a Catalan twist.On Sunday 26 July (12–5pm), streets and squares across the city centre will come alive with:🎭 Manchester Day Parade (1pm) – eye‑catching costumes, giant creations and show‑stopping performances🎤 Pop‑up performances and walkabout acts🥁 Live music and dance💃 Surprising moments🌞 Free, family‑friendly activities for all agesAt the heart of the day is the Manchester Day Parade, created with communities from across the city and produced by Walk the Plank.This year, we’re celebrating Manchester’s links with Barcelona, with international artists bringing a taste of Catalan culture to the city following Manchester’s visit to La Mercè festival in 2025.You’ll also spot a book-inspired theme woven through the day, as part of the National Year of Reading - celebrating stories, imagination and creativity.This is a free event. No tickets are needed. Just come along and enjoy the day.More info on timings and locations coming soon!