Saturday was an epic nod to the past as approximately 1.5 million ravers joined the all-day live stream of The Hacienda House Party raising ‘a fortune’ for Greater Manchester funds.
So popular, in fact, that the people behind FAC51 and United We Stream have announced an encore on another Bank Holiday weekend: Saturday 9 May 2020.
Will we see resident DJs Mike Pickering and/or Dave Haslam on the next one? The line-up of old school DJs is yet to be announced (we’ll update this post as soon as we know) but one thing’s for sure, they will all come together electronically to channel the legendary spirit of the nightclub that inspired a generation for you all to feed on for 12 hours.
Over one and a half million of us came together yesterday throughout the world to dance with The Hacienda House Party.
There was so much love that we just have to do it again. Join us Bank Holiday Saturday 9th May for another 12 hour party. Thank you all for all of your support. pic.twitter.com/wyRWWU2GoF— FAC51 The Haçienda (@Fac51hacienda) April 12, 2020
As the world continues to battle against the coronavirus, all our night-time venues have had to close to help to stop the spread with no clue when doors can be reopened.
So when well over half the population of the 10 boroughs of Greater Manchester spread love and unite to stream the stay-at-home party, the city region boosts hope for the night-time economy – all our restaurants, pubs, theatres and venues – and raises vital funds to help fight back.
Cultural organisations, performance venues, pubs/bars, restaurants and individuals/freelancers from across Greater Manchester can apply for the fund. Applications for the fund will go to a panel of local culture and night Time economy leaders, including Sacha Lord, where applications will be considered and money distributed.
22% of funds raised will go towards the ongoing challenge against homelessness in Greater Manchester and also 8% to support the vital work undertaken by music therapy charity Nordoff Robbins.
The channel is also used for positive public service announcements such as reinforcing the #StayHome message to support the NHS and emergency services, and other essential messaging regarding safety and social distancing.
We all hope to see the light at the end of the COVID-19 tunnel before May but just maybe this nostalgic event will be enough to look forward to for now.
The streamed event is free. However, all they ask is that you donate as a kind of ‘virtual ticket’ for whatever price you want.