Summer has finally arrived, which means festivals galore, al fresco dining and lots of live music. June’s long, sunny days are asking to be filled with activities and events, and there’s lots to choose from this month in Greater Manchester.
There are new openings to be had on the city’s culinary scene, including Gordon Ramsey’s long-awaited restaurant on King Street. For a night out with a twist, pay a visit to the pop-up circus which has been installed on the roof of the Depot at Mayfield.
Naturally, June signals the start of festival season and Manchester has got several on offer. Parklife is back at Heaton Park, headlined by some of the industry’s biggest names. Or for something completely different, celebrate the city’s literary venues at the Festival of Libraries.
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From live music events to acrobatics, we’ve rounded up some of the best things to do in Manchester this month below.
Party at Parklife
The iconic music festival Parklife returns to Heaton Park on June 10 to June 11. Taking the headline spots this year are The 1975 and Aitch.
The line-up also includes The Prodigy, Fred Again and Little Simz. Lucky ticket-holders will also get to see hip-hop royalty Wu-Tang Clan and Nas play together for the first time on stage in the UK.
Grab a bite to eat on King Street
Manchester’s food and drink scene is ever-evolving, and this month there are some new openings. Gordon Ramsey’s new Japanese concept restaurant Lucky Cat has opened its doors on King Street, in a stunning Grade II-listed building which was originally a Midland bank.
Or stop by artisan bakery chain Gail’s, which is opening its latest branch - also on King Street - this month. You can choose from sourdough breads, pastries, sandwiches and cakes.
Head to a rooftop circus
A circus is taking up residence on the roof of the Depot at Mayfield, where you can see a cast of acrobats, singers, sword swallowers and aerial artists performing impressive feats. La Clique takes place in an original Belgian ‘spiegeltent’ promising that classic circus atmosphere.
Enjoy an open-air gig
At the end of the month Sounds of the City will be taking over the Castlefield Bowl, with dates spilling over into July. This year’s line up includes Porcupine Tree, Blossoms, Bastille and Hacienda Classical.
Learn about Stephen Hawking
A new display at the Science and Industry Museum looks at some of the incredible objects from Professor Stephen Hawking’s office. Stephen Hawking at Work gives an insight into the working life and personality of the world-renowned theoretical physicist. Highlights include a rare copy of his PhD thesis, his spectacles and even a jacket gifted to him by the creators of The Simpsons.
Experience music by candlelight
Immerse yourself in a Candlelight Concert at Manchester Cathedral. This month you can enjoy performances celebrating the music of Hans Zimmer, Coldplay and even the soundtrack to Lord of the Rings.
Celebrate the city's iconic libraries
Greater Manchester’s libraries will be celebrated at the Festival of Libraries from June 7 to 11. A programme of events will take place at venues including Manchester’s Central Library, The Portico Library and John Rylands Library. You can expect plenty of exhibitions, performances, concerts and public debates.
Do an al fresco beer tasting
For fans of all things beer, then a visit to Summer Beer Thing at Kampus in the city centre is a must. Expect food vendors, wine bars, DJs, live music and, of course, beer tastings. From Friday June 30 to Sunday July 2.
Visit a rooftop bar or restaurant
The month is already getting off to a sunny start and we’re hopeful it’ll continue. When the weather’s this good it’s time to discover some of the incredible rooftop bars and restaurants the city has to offer. Grab a bite to eat on the terrace of Honest Burgers on Bridge Street, or enjoy an al fresco drink on the roof of YES.
Soak up festival atmosphere for free
Manchester International Festival kicks off on June 29 and this year the Festival Square will be at Factory International's new riverside location. An open air stage will play host to 190 artists, bands, DJs and musicians over the course of the festival fortnight.
Festival Square is free to attend and there’s no need to book. There’ll be dozens of street vendors on hand too so you can grab a bite to eat and a drink while you’re there.
For more of the latest What's On news, click here.
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