Manchester Day returns for 2025 – and it’s all about the music

Manchester’s most-loved celebration is tuning up for a triumphant return, and this year, it’s all about the music.

Celebrating its 15th year, this year’s theme is Manchester’s incredible creativity and diversity.

It adds yet another unmissable event to Manchester’s Summer calendar, this is not one you want to miss.

Manchester Day 2025

This year’s event will take place on the 26th of July, promising a full day of free, music-themed fun for all the family.

Backed by Manchester City Council and brought to life once again by outdoor arts experts Walk the Plank, this year’s celebration strikes a chord with Manchester’s musical roots and the city’s huge summer of gigs and festivals. With 1.3 million music fans expected to visit this summer alone, Manchester Day 2025 is ready to bring the party to the people.

Whether you’re a classically trained maestro or just love belting out bangers in the shower, the event promises a playful, inclusive programme designed for every age and every ability, with no instrument required.

English National Opera x Manchester Day

From the English National Opera teaming up with football fans and community choirs, to West End hits, juggling drummers, hip-hop wrestling, and even two musical cats and a giant canary in a birdcage — this year’s line-up is gloriously unpredictable and full of joy.

Expect the city to come alive from St Ann’s Square to Cathedral Gardens, with music popping up everywhere in-between. Visitors can try their hand at making music, join in ukulele strum-alongs, spontaneous sing-a-longs, steel pan dancing, or bounce along to some surprising ska rhythms.

One of the day’s biggest highlights? A musical parade winding its way from St Peter’s Square to the Cathedral, a family-friendly, sound-filled procession that promises jaw-dropping visuals and irresistible beats.

Giant Griffins will lead the way, soaring through the city streets, followed by fantastical birds and performers from across Greater Manchester’s rich cultural communities.

Brazilian brass, Manchester Dhol and the Mighty Batala Drummers

Expect a sonic spectacle with Brazilian brass from Jubacana, the thunder of Manchester Dhol Players, the mighty Batala drummers, and performers from the Anglo Filipino Club, Hong Kong Cultural Community, Manchester’s Lithuanian Society, and Greater Manchester Youth Network.

You can find out more about Jubacana here.

Councillor Pat Karney, Chair of Manchester Day, said: “We’ve got a mammoth summer of live music coming up in the city this year, which means it’s only right we max out on the music for Manchester Day.

“Everyone in Manchester loves music. Mancs have music in their bones. There’s so much talent here: we’re either making it or playing it. And that’s why everyone’s on the guest-list for this year’s Manchester Day to help us celebrate the music that Mancunians make best.

“We’ve got a fantastic day lined up, so loosen up those vocal cords, grab a guitar, grab your granny, all the family, and don’t miss it!”

The fun kicks off at 12 noon with final encores at 5pm.

So get ready to sing, dance, and celebrate the sounds of the city like never before. Manchester Day 2025 is ready to hit the high notes.

Find out more about Manchester Day 2025

You can find out more about Manchester Day 2025 by clicking here