Here’s everything you need to know about Manchester Day 2023

Entering its thirteenth year, Manchester Day is a massive celebration, inspired by New York’s Thanksgiving celebrations.

Set up by Manchester City Council, the event has been a huge success bringing a Carnival Spirit to Manchester City Centre.

Expect huge crowds, a pumping atmosphere and an incredible selection of floats, music and colour.

The party kicks off at noon and goes late into the evening.

Let’s dive into the exciting lineup of events that promise to make this year’s Manchester Day on Holiday an unforgettable celebration.

What’s happening on Manchester Day?

A Seaside Adventure on Deansgate (12-6pm)

Deansgate, the bustling heart of Manchester, will undergo a complete transformation into a charming seaside destination.

Picture a Helter-skelter soaring high above the city, a Venetian Gondola gliding gracefully, and sand sculptures that will transport you to a beachfront paradise.

The holiday hub on Deansgate won’t just be a visual delight.

Local artists will set the stage ablaze with groovy and upbeat performances, providing the perfect afternoon boogie soundtrack.

Relaxing Summer Vibes at St Ann’s Square (12-6pm)

Unwind and soak in the summer atmosphere at St Ann’s Square, where you can grab a deckchair and enjoy a delightful afternoon of Opera classics, Indian brass music, and vibrant salsa dancing.

Let the rhythms and melodies transport you to a blissful holiday mood.

Venture into the Animal Kingdom on New Cathedral Street (12-6pm)

Calling all explorers!

New Cathedral Street will be transformed into a wild Animal Kingdom, teeming with lions, orangutans, kangaroos, and even a hippopotamus!

Street artists and performers will create a jungle safari like no other, providing an afternoon of fun and mayhem for all ages.

Discover a Craft Market on Market Street (12-6pm)

Delight in the craft market on Market Street, where you’ll find an array of local goods, from homemade bakes to scented candles, captivating books to delectable locally sourced honey.

Manchester Markets will bring you a treasure trove of unique finds and gifts to cherish.

Get Dancing on St Mary’s Gate (12-6pm)

For dance enthusiasts, St Mary’s Gate is the place to be. Dance to the rhythms of Lithuanian dance and Bhangra, and when the professionals take a break, it’s your time to shine on the dance floor.

Show off your moves and let the boogie lover in you groove to your heart’s content.

Creative Activities on Exchange Street and Exchange Square (12-6pm)

Calling all artists and families!

Exchange Street will be buzzing with creativity, offering a host of interactive and educational activities for everyone.

From face painting to tie-dying and seed planting, let your imagination run wild and your artistic skills shine.

Pedal Power at St Peter’s Square (12-6pm)

If you’re a biking enthusiast, head to St Peter’s Square, where you can test top-of-the-range balance bikes, participate in bike repairs, and even take the city’s new e-cargo bikes for a spin.

Thrilling Firefighter Competition at Cathedral Gardens (12-6pm)

Witness an epic showdown at Cathedral Gardens as over 250 firefighters compete in the toughest 6-minute race to determine the UK’s Fittest Firefighter.

The energy will be electrifying as these brave individuals push themselves to their limits in the pursuit of glory.

Nighttime Extravaganza in Stevenson Square (6-9pm)

As the day rolls into the evening, the vibrant streets of the Northern Quarter come alive with dancers and drummers, filling the air with futuristic funk.

The entertainment will reach its peak around 8.45pm when different groups converge in Stevenson Square for an adrenaline-fueled drum-off like no other.

Councillor Pat Karney, Chair of Manchester Day, is thrilled about this year’s event and promises that it will be the city’s highlight of the summer schedule.

Speaking to I Love MCR, he said: “This year’s Manchester Day on Holiday promises to be the highlight of the city’s jam-packed summer schedule.

“The Council and Walk the Plank have been working hard to ensure that this year’s Manchester Day on Holiday will be the best outing to date and it will be.

“Where else can you enjoy an immersive zoo, a seaside, live performances, a craft market all in one place?”

If you want to find out more about Manchester Day, please click here.

So mark your calendars and get ready for a day of adventure, creativity, and joy at Manchester Day on Holiday.

Whether you’re dancing to the beat, exploring the wild, or simply relaxing in a deckchair, this event promises something for everyone.

Let the festivities begin!