Council plans 14 weeks of ‘free fun’ for children across Greater Manchester this summer
Children playing with a parachute outside in a field / Credit: Artem Kniaz (via Unsplash)
Manchester is bringing 14 weeks of free activities for children to parks across the city this summer.
Thanks to additional Council funding that was allocated earlier this year, Manchester’s biggest-ever Parktastic programme launches this week – expanding from the summer holidays alone to include after-school sessions before schools break up, activities throughout the holidays, and even sessions continuing into September.
Back by popular demand and aimed at children ages six-12, Parktastic offers sports, games, arts and crafts, dance, drama, nature activities, storytelling and messy play.
Sessions are free, no booking is required, healthy snacks are provided, and children can simply turn up and join in.
Activities will be running in 32 parks across Manchester all summer long.
The programme launches as Manchester celebrates being officially recognised by UNICEF as a Child Friendly City, reinforcing the city and Manchester City Council’s commitment to ensuring every child has the chance to ‘play, thrive, and enjoy’ their local community.
🌳 Parktastic is back!
— Manchester City Council (@ManCityCouncil) June 19, 2026
FREE play sessions are happening daily in @MCRparks_ across Manchester, led by trusted youth partners.
A great way for kids to have fun, make friends & enjoy the outdoors safely 💙
Find your local session https://t.co/lFpyyoBWuP #ChildFriendlyMCR pic.twitter.com/YnOczwYdUb
Sessions are set to take place rain or shine, so even if the classic rainy Manchester weather returns, children can still have fun.
It is suggested that younger children are accompanied by a parent/carer if they attend any of the organised events.
“We’re really lucky in Manchester to have lots of beautiful parks and open spaces and want our children to be able to get outside and enjoy them,” commented Councillor Basat Sheikh, who is the Executive Member for Neighbourhoods at Manchester City Council.
“Our expanded Parktastic programme this year is even bigger and better.
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“[This] means even more opportunities for youngsters in the city to go along to their local park, maybe try something new, have fun, meet friends and even make new ones.”
Find out everything happening this summer here.
Featured Image – Artem Kniaz (via Unsplash)