With restrictions starting to ease as we edge towards the summer, the return of gigs, festivals and nightclubs is on the horizon.
There are so many precious and beloved cultural institutions that make Manchester such a special place to go to. Whether it be the independent venues that make up the thriving gig circuit or the festivals both big and small that make the city their annual home, we have missed them dearly.
Thankfully, there are a whole host of festivals and events ready to return this year to give the people of Manchester the parties that they deserve after the various lockdowns that we’ve endured.
Check out the list below to see what’s on in Manchester this year.
Parklife
When: Saturday 11th– Sunday 12th September
Where: Heaton Park
Lineup: Dave, Megan Thee Stallion, Disclosure, AJ Tracey, Slowthai, Camelphat
Making a glorious return this year is Parklife festival, which sees some of the biggest artists from the most popular genres in the world descend upon Manchester for one weekend.
2020 was set to be their biggest year to date and 2021 will be no exception to that, having brought in a huge, eclectic lineup with Dave making his only UK festival appearance of the year, Megan Thee Stallion fresh from ‘WAP’ success and Grime legend Skepta taking to the stage.
Based over in Heaton Park, attendees can expect over 100 artists across the weekend and there will never be a dull moment to be had. Parklife is the only place in Manchester where you get to see such huge names, it’s going to be one hell of a celebration.
Moovin Barn Party
When: Saturday 10th July
Where: Whitebottom Farm, Stockport
Lineup: Congo Natty, Mr Scruff, Norman Jay, General Levy, Graeme Park
Moovin Festival simply couldn’t wait until its rescheduled August date to see everyone again. Instead, they have decided to set up shop early and give everyone the party they deserved as quickly as possible.
They’ve put together a lineup where most of names that have graced the festival in the past. Meaning that old favourites are returning such as Mr Scruff.
For this special party they have planned additional stages, all kinds of exciting performers and have even arranged some campfires which you can sit down by if you’re legs get a bit wobbly. They can’t wait to see people again.
Manchester Psych Festival
When: Saturday 4th September
Where: Various venues, YES, Gorilla, Dancehouse, 02 Ritz, Deaf Institute
Lineup: Stereolab, Dry Cleaning, Girl Band, Stealing Sheep, Skullcrusher, Porridge Radio
Manchester Psych Festival brings some of the best psychedelic/indie bands to various venues around the city. This year it’s a fantastic opportunity to get reacquainted with some of the best venues that Manchester has to offer.
As well as an array of talent, the festival offers extra incentives such as art installations, DJ sets and street food vendors who are there to cater to all dietary requirements. It makes for the perfect mix of dance and culture.
Manchester Psych Festival is a chance to get familiar with some of the bands who may be huge names in the years ahead as well as featuring legendary band such as Stereolab. It’s a festival brimming with exciting discovery.
Sounds Of The City
When: Sunday 11th July- Sunday 26th September
Where: Catlefield Bowl
Lineup: DMA’s, Dermot Kennedy, Kaiser Chiefs, Snow Patrol, Hacienda Classical
Castlefield Bowl has been host to some phenomenal gigs through Sounds Of The City in recent years. Legendary acts and Manchester legends such as New Order have played before and pop icons such as Kylie.
The outdoor venue is one of Manchester’s most unique spaces and as a result draws in some truly unique performers. This year’s programme involves experienced bands such as Kaiser Chiefs and Snow Patrol. There will also be appearances from huge new acts DMA’s and Dermot Kennedy.
The Hacienda Classical will also be taking over a night, providing re-workings of classic club tunes for a nostalgic and unique evening. Sounds Of The City provide entertaining and unforgettable experiences and are a special series of gigs that have a well-loved reputation.
Manchester Pride
When: Friday 27th– Monday 30th August
Where: To be announced
Lineup: Zara Larsson, Ella Henderson, Annie Mac, Sigala, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Example
Manchester Pride is a real highlight year upon year in Manchester and always attracts some huge names and an even bigger party. It’s confirmed to be going ahead this year in August but is yet to announce the venue.
However, it has announced most of the lineup for this year and features some phenomenal pop artists such as Zara Larsson who had a brilliant album out earlier this year. Annie Mac will be around to keep the best tunes going and it’s going to be a full day of good vibes.
A secret headliner has not yet been revealed and it won’t be until August 27th, the day before the music events start! So, keep your eyes peeled as Manchester Pride will surely be as memorable as ever this year.
Manchester Jazz Festival
When: Friday 11th June- Sunday 13th June
Where: Escape to Freight Island
Lineup: Camilla George, Nubiyan Twist, Yemi Bolatiwa, Young Pilgrims
This year Manchester Jazz Festival is heading to a special new venue. Escape to Freight Island is situated in Piccadilly and will feature three different stages across the weekend with all kinds of exciting jazz acts performing.
The best part being that the festival is free! You’re free to come down to any of the venues as long as you book your table in advance and you also have the flexibility to change which venue you’re booked at throughout the day, so you don’t miss out on seeing your favourite!
It is certainly going to have a relaxed atmosphere as you can book a table with some of your friends/family, enjoy some phenomenal jazz musicians and get to indulge in gorgeous food and drink.
