With the Manchester Jazz Festival around the corner, we wanted to highlight some of the most iconic musical events our city offers throughout the year. From world-class festivals that celebrate local talent to performances by international headliners, Manchester's music scene is more vibrant than ever. Circle your dates for these must-attend events happening in 2025!
In celebration of its 30th anniversary, Manchester’s longest-running festival will return from 16–25 May 2025, bringing a mix of live performances and interactive events to venues across the city. This year’s festival features hundreds of artists from the North, across the UK, and internationally.
As part of this year’s festival, The Corn Exchange will take part in hosting the Piano Trail and Competition. Running from the 20th March to the 31st May, the Piano Trail places pianos throughout the city, inviting the public to play and enjoy spontaneous performances.
Interested in taking part? Learn more here.
This June, festival lovers across the UK will flock to Heaton Park to attend Parklife — a two-day festival that has drawn the likes of Tyler, The Creator, Megan Thee Stallion and The 1975. This year, headliners include Charli XCX, 50 Cent and Jorja Smith, as well as a wide array of emerging artists. Kick off the summer months with a standout weekend and get your tickets here.
A staple of Manchester’s music scene, The Warehouse Project is known for transforming industrial spaces into some of the UK’s most sought-after, iconic club nights. With lineups spanning electronic, house, techno and beyond, The Warehouse Project takes over venues like Depot Mayfield, Albert Hall and Heaton Park. Click here to learn more about upcoming events.
The Manchester Psych Fest has built up a reputation over the years as the UK's leading Psychedelic multi-venue music and arts festival. Beyond this year’s stellar lineup, festival goers can enjoy workshops, art installations, yoga classes and much more. Make the most of August’s summer weather and book tickets here.
Heading into its 10th year, the Manchester Folk Festival celebrates the contemporary folk genre across multiple venues in the city’s northern quarter. This year’s March lineup included John Boden and the Remnant Kings, Cara Dillon and The Longest Johns. Click here to find out what’s on throughout the year and dive into the genre.
Manchester Pride has grown to be one of the UK’s most vibrant and inclusive celebrations of LGBTQ+ life and culture. This year’s Mardi Gras celebration features headline performances from Olly Alexander, Leigh-Anne and Billy Porter at Depot Mayfield. Book your tickets here.
Since its inception in 2007, the Manchester International Festival has showcased groundbreaking art and performances from around the world. Expect bold, experimental performances and installations that push the boundaries of art and music. Find out more here.
If you’re on the lookout for new artists to add to your day-to-day music rotation, then Neighbourhood Weekender is a must-attend event. The festival has earned a reputation for spotlighting the best in emerging talent — former headliners include Sam Fender, Yungblud, and Declan McKenna, all before their rise to international fame. Book your tickets for May 24th - 25th here.
Since its launch in 2019, Homobloc has become one of the most iconic LGBTQ+ rave nights in the country, and is a powerful celebration of all facets of queer culture. While the 2025 dates are yet to be released, the event usually takes place in early November. Find out more here.
Now one of the UK’s longest-running independent festivals, Sounds From the Other City is returning to Salford this year to celebrate its 20th anniversary. Known for platforming emerging artists and grassroots creatives, the event will occur across some of Salford’s most iconic venues on May 4th. Some say Salford, some say Manchester—either way, you’re in for a proper good time. Find final release tickets here.
