But we’ve still got bank holiday Monday and the last of the summer to make the most of before it’s too late… and thankfully, there’s a wide range of exciting events and activities in Greater Manchester‘s social calendar happening this week before the little Mancs go back to school, and normality resumes.
If you’re finding it a bit tricky to pick what to do though, we’ve chosen a few of the best bits for another edition of our ‘what’s on‘ guide.
Here’s some of our recommendations.
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Manchester Pride Festival 2024
Manchester City Centre
Monday 26 August
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Manchester Pride Festival 2024 / Credit: Manchester Pride
August isn’t the only thing drawing to a close, so is Pride weekend.
Undoubtedly one of the most colourful, energetic, accepting, and highly-anticipated events in the Manchester social calendar every year, Manchester Pride Festival has returned with a bang this August bank holiday weekend, and there’s still one day left to immerse yourself in and amongst all the celebrations.
Co-created in collaboration with the North West’s diverse queer communities, this year’s lineup champions “representation, inclusivity, and community celebration” over the four-day extravaganza.
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Find out more about Manchester Pride Festival 2024 here, and learn about this year’s Pride theme and what it means here.
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Bolton Food & Drink Festival 2024
Bolton
Monday 26 August
Bolton Food & Drink Festival 2024 / Credit: BFDF
There’s also still one day left of Bolton Food and Drink Festival.
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The award-winning festival is the biggest of its kind in the North West, and over these past couple of days, it has successfully brought together celebrity and regional chefs, cooking demos, live music, street entertainment, special events, and over 200 market traders.
Hosted right across the town centre, foodies can roam freely as they explore food stalls, bars, dedicated music stages, and plenty more at the free-to-attend festival.
Find out everything you need to know about Bolton Food & Drink Festival 2024 here.
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Jurassic World: The Exhibition
Trafford Centre
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Monday 26 August – onwards
Jurassic World: The Exhibition / Credit: Supplied
A major Jurassic World exhibition that’s been mesmerising visitors all over the world has now arrived here in Greater Manchester for the summer.
Based on the beloved blockbuster film franchise, this official award-winning experience is one of the fastest-selling exhibitions in history.
Manc visitors will be able to walk through the iconic Jurassic World gates, explore some richly-themed environments, and encounter a life-sized Brachiosaurus, Velociraptors, and the most fearsome dinosaur of all, the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex.
Did you know that the Science and Industry Museum is giving you chance to explore ‘ideas that chance the world’ this summer?
Science and Industry Museum
Monday 26 August – onwards
Summer at Science and Industry Museum / Credit: Drew Forsyth (via Science Museum Group)
Keen to keep the kids both entertained and educated now that schools across Greater Manchester are out for summer?
With a couple of weeks of the school holidays still left to make the most of, and many parents, carers and guardians understandably starting to run out of ideas, the Science and Industry Museum is inviting locals down to experience the best of its jam-packed events lineup packed full of exciting exhibitions, hands-on activities, and so much more.
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And the best part is, the majority of the programme is free to get involved with.
Manchester Summer Stadium Tour / Credit: The Manc Group
Fancy a tour around the Etihad? Summer couldn’t be a more ideal time to head on over there.
Voted not just in the top five stadium experiences in the UK but the 99th percentile of all reviewed Tripadvisor’s global experiences, Man City’s tours of their home ground and the wider Etihad Campus are literally some of the most highly-rated on the planet.
In fact, the club was actually awarded the Tripadvisor ‘Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best’ award in the category for the second time in three years.
Find out what makes these tours so special and book on one here.
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Summer Scran Fest
Manchester Arndale
Monday 26 August – Sunday 1 September
Summer Scran Fest / Credit: Manchester Arndale
Manchester Arndale’s Summer Scran Fest is back for 2024, and there’s loads of tasty food and drink offers to make the most of.
Running for a whole month until Sunday 1 September, there’s discounts on over 40 of the city centre shopping hub’s fan-favourite food and drink restaurants, cafes, and kiosks – including Tortilla, Pizzaluxe, Millie’s Cookies, Lazy Sundae, Boost, and Krispy Kreme – and you can tuck into everything from burgers and bagels, to doughnuts, smoothies, and so much more.
The Trafford Centre’s massively-popular summer celebration is back, and this is your last week to make the most of it.
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Back by popular demand for plenty of family fun, only this time with a new name, Bright Lights, Big Fun has seen a retro fairground and a massive 600sqm beach perfect for sunbathing and sandcastles pop up outside the Greater Manchester shopping centre, alongside a splash park with loads of water jets, and so much more.
There’s also a yummy selection of food and drink traders on site to take your pick from if you’re feeling peckish after getting stuck into some fun and games.
Find out more and get yourself some £2.50 tickets here.
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The Great Summer Social
Cheshire Oaks
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Monday 26 August – Sunday 1 September
The Great Summer Social / Credit: Cheshire Oaks
Cheshire Oaks has brought its popular The Great Summer Social event back for another year, and there’s currently loads to get involved with while schools are out.
Not only is there a bunch of retail offers and promotions to make the most of, as well as free family-friendly interactive activities to get involved with too, but there’s also a big wheel, a mini golf course, a big screen showing sporting events, DJs blasting out tunes, and a wide variety of street food and drink vendors across the Designer Outlet.
Did you see that Manchester’s LEGOLAND Discovery Centre has launched half-price kids tickets over the summer holidays?
As the rising cost of living crisis unfortunately continues to make its impact felt across the UK, the popular Trafford Palazzo attraction wants local families to “say yes to real fun”, and is on a mission to help parents, carers, and guardians entertain their little ones as schools are out, all while keeping pennies in their pockets.
In a bid to make “money go further” and “memories last longer”, the family-friendly venue has slashed the price of a children’s general admission ticket from the usual £21.50 right down to just £10.75.
A groundbreaking new immersive exhibition exploring our relationship with the natural world is now open at Manchester Museum.
‘Wild’ look at how people are creating, rebuilding, and repairing connections with nature, and how the natural world has traditionally been presented and idealised through Western art, as well as looking at some unique approaches to environmental recovery too.
The exhibition will also crucially look at how we can tackle the climate and biodiversity crisis by making the world more wild.
Injecting Hope: The race for a COVID-19 vaccine / Credit: Science Museum Group
More than 100 objects and stories collected during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic are now on display as part of a new exhibition at the Science and Industry Museum.
The groundbreaking new exhibition, titled Injecting Hope: The race for a COVID-19 vaccine, explores the worldwide effort to develop vaccines at pandemic speed, while uncovering the inspiring stories of scientists and innovators around the globe who collaborated to tackle the worldwide COVID-19 challenge along the way.
50 Years of the Replica Shirt / Credit: National Football Museum | Admiral Sports
A new exhibition telling the story of the football shirt pioneers, Admiral, is now open at the National Football Museum.
50 Years of the Replica Shirt will take visitors right through the Admiral’s history, from their humble beginnings in a Leicestershire textile town, to the official kit manufacturers for the England national team – with key moments in the company’s timeline highlighted through a range of objects, photographs, and kit designs.
One of Greater Manchester’s best-loved outdoor dining concepts has returned for 2024, and there’s a proper tasty lineup of traders.
‘Kargo on the Docks’ – which is MediaCity‘s al fresco dining pop-up, in place of the former Box On The Docks – has had itself a bit of a “glow up” and has taken over the waterfront and gardens with a fresh wave of local food traders and stunning artwork by Salford-based creatives, all as the sun shines down on Salford Quays this summer.
Did you see that the UK’s biggest social dog walking club has now launched in Manchester?
Dedicated to “bringing the UK’s dog lovers together”, Walkie Dogs has officially launched nationwide, and is already turning the popular Park Run concept into its very-own series of its very-own “bark runs”, with group walks will taking place up and down the country each week.
The first events in Manchester are happening over at Alexandra Park.
As part of the scheme, Walkie Dogs members will not only be able to embrace the outdoors and immerse themselves into the dog walking community, but they’ll also gain access to a variety of dog-friendly perks – including the ability to book onto weekly dog walks, and bespoke discounts on a range of products like dog staycations.
Greater Manchester’s iconic heritage railway is hosting one of the most unique fine dining experiences in the region this summer.
Running on selected Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays throughout the summer, East Lancashire Railway’s ‘Red Rose Diners’ are described as being “the ultimate first class foodie experience”, as they start with a glass of fizz and stretch over an almost three-hour steam train journey through the Irwell Valley.
The experience includes a four-course dinner with complimentary sparkling wine, followed by tea or coffee and after-dinner chocolates.
Manchester Psych Fest is back for one day only this Saturday.
2024’s edition of the UK’s leading Psychedelic multi-venue music and arts festival is returning to Manchester this weekend, and is bringing dozens of exciting artists to several stages across the city – including Albert Hall, O2 Ritz, Projects Skatepark, The Union at Man Met, Gorilla, YES, The Bread Shed, and Deaf Institute.
BC Camplight, Altin Gün, Baxter Dury, The Horrors, and Pigs x7 are all headlining, with loads of other big-name and upcoming artists on the lineup.
Fancy hopping on your bike? The Manchester 100 Bike Ride is back this Sunday
Geared towards the more experienced cyclist, and starting and finishing in Wythenshawe Park, the Manchester 100km is a “worry-free day out” which will take you on a picturesque journey through winding country lanes in the beautiful Cheshire countryside.
There’ll be mechanics, pick-up vehicles, marshals, and refreshment stops along the signed route, and cyclists will return to a warm welcome and a medal at the end.
Find out more and book your place on the ride here.
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Featured Image – LEGOLAND | BFDF | Bike Events
What's On
More than 100 traders to take over Manchester’s beautiful Victoria Baths for The Night Market UK
Daisy Jackson
Manchester’s iconic Victoria Baths is set to host an almighty market later this month, with more than 100 traders taking over the former swimming pool and balconies.
The Night Market UK will make its return to Manchester for its biggest event yet, packing the Grade II-listed building with vintage sellers, independent makers, street food, cocktails, and loads more.
The historic venue will be completely transformed after dark on Friday 31 October for the occasion, and will have a few seasonal twists befitting Halloween night.
As well as the food, drink and makers taking part, The Night Market UK will also have art installations and DJ performances.
You’ll be able to wander rows of stalls in the former swimming baths selling the finest vintage clothing and handmade goods, like ceramics, prints, bakes, jewellery and so much more.
Heading back outside the magnificent building you’ll find multiple street food traders, serving everything from tacos to Thai to burgers to pizza.
Cocktail Cartel will be on hand with two bars with spirits sourced from the Spirit of Manchester Distillery and Salford’s own Salford Rum, alongside beers from local legends Seven Brothers Brewery.
Credit: Mark McBrideCredit: Joel FildesCredit: Mark McBride
They said: “We are really excited about being at The Nigh t Market UK– these guys just know how to do it – getting all the locals together and supporting the businesses that make this city what it is.
“You can go anywhere and get a pint of San Miguel or a pint of Guinness – if you’re going to a Manchester market why not get a beer brewed from the city you’re in?! It gives it that personal touch, which is what we are all about.”
Live DJs will be playing all night, with the line-up announced soon on the @thenightmarketuk socials.
The Night Market UK is one of the country’s most distinctive events and will bring to Manchester something for everyone, from families to late-night explorers.
Becc Sanderson, director of The Night Market UK, says: “We are thrilled to return to Victoria Baths for what promises to be our biggest and most exciting event yet.
Credit: Els TacosCredit: Cocktail CartelCredit: Killa CarbsFood and drink at The Night Market UK
“This isn’t just about shopping, it’s about experiencing one of Manchester’s most iconic buildings in a whole new way. It’s about connection with friends, family and community, and celebrating the breadth of small business talent that Manchester has to offer.
“From the installations and performances to the makers and food vendors, everything has been curated to create an evening that feels truly unique. To be here on Halloween night, with the baths transformed after dark, will make it all the more unforgettable.
“We’re also hugely excited to be launching our art collaborations in this incredible space, something that has been in the planning stages for well over a year.
“Thanks to the myriad of fabulous ‘nooks and crannies’ in Victoria Baths, and the fact that it is Halloween after all, we’ve earmarked a space where our customers can enjoy an immersive multimedia experience featuring the work of artist/technologist Ross Blair (trenchone.com) and lighting designer Sam Jones (@smajoneslx), fresh off their huge success at Edinburgh’s Hidden Door Festival.
“This will be a night that will be unforgettable and truly Spooktacular!”
The Night Market UK will take place at Victoria Baths in Manchester on Friday 31 October, with discounted tickets available online now HERE with timed entry slots. Limited full price tickets may be available on the door.
Busted vs McFly’s Manchester arena shows – tickets, times, setlist and all you need to know
Thomas Melia
UK boybands Busted and McFly are going head-to-head for three whole nights of pop-rock bangers as they play out together at BOTH of the premier music arenas in Manchester.
It’s a real-life battle of the bands, as mainstream pop-punk boy bands Busted and McFly go up against each other to win over the crowds, not just AO Arena in Manchester, but at Co-op Live, too.
Known for smash singles like ‘Year 3000’ and ‘What I Go To School For’, pop-rock boyband Busted have amassed a cult following of fans since debuting in 2002.
Equally impressive noughties boyband McFly also have a fair few hits under their belt, dropping music since 2004 with the dreamy ‘Star Girl’ and serenade-twanged ‘All About You’.
The lineup of one of these UK bands may look a little different, as singer and guitarist James Bourne of Busted has had to pull out of this 2025 tour due to health issues, as revealed in a recent Instagram post.
Now, Matt and Charlie of Busted, as well as Danny, Dougie, Tom and Harry of McFly are laying all their cards on the table for a face-to-face music battle like no other.
Air guitars at the ready…
Busted vs McFly in Manchester – gig guide
Busted vs McFly is taking over the AO Arena in Manchester for two nights of head-to-head music (Credit: Supplied)
Busted vs McFly UK tour dates
Fri 10 October – Newcastle, UK – Utilita Arena
Sat 11 October – Newcastle, UK – Utilita Arena
Sun 11 October – Newcastle, UK – Utilita Arena
Tue 14 October – Nottingham, UK – Motorpoint Arena
Wed 15 October – Nottingham, UK – Motorpoint Arena
Sat 8 November – Nottingham, UK – Motorpoint Arena
Are there tickets left for Busted vs McFly in Manchester?
If you want a dose of this boyband rivalry, there are two shows for you to choose from, and luckily for you, there are a handful of tickets left for both dates at the AO and the Co-op.
Anyone looking to ‘Shine a Light’ on day one of the Busted vs McFly tour can catch them live in action on Friday 17 OctoberHERE.
Fancy reliving the early 2000s alongside two of the biggest British bands from that very decade? You’re ‘Not Alone’ and you can do so on Saturday, 18 October HERE.
Busted last visited the AO Arena in 2023 to commemorate their 20th anniversary (Credit: Supplied)
Busted vs McFly setlist 2025
McFly tracks
Where Did All the Guitars Go? (McFly)
Star Girl (McFly)
That Girl (McFly)
One for the Radio (McFly)
I’ll Be Ok (Mcly)
Obviously (McFly)
Room on the 3rd Floor (McFly)
All About You (McFly)
Twist and Shout (McFly cover)
Transylvania / Lies (McFly)
Red (McFly)
The Heart Never Lies (McFly)
Busted songs
Crashed the Wedding (Busted)
You Said No (Busted)
Meet You There (Busted)
Dawson’s Geek / Britney / Nerdy / Why (Busted)
Loser Kid (Busted)
Who’s David (Busted)
Sleeping With the Light On (Busted)
Everything I Knew (Busted)
Thunderbirds Are Go (Busted)
What I Go to School For (Busted)
Back and forth…
Hate Your Guts (McBusted)
3am (Busted)
Not Alone (McFly)
Air Hostess (Busted)
5 Colours in Her Hair (McFly)
What Happened to Your Band (McBusted)
Shine a Light (McFly)
Year 3000 (Busted)
It feels mad to think it’s been a decade since we first got this crossover.
What are the stage times for Busted vs McFly in Manchester?
Both AO Arena and Co-op Live have curfews of 11pm, meaning you can time-travel to the ‘Year 3000’ and not have to worry about getting home during the early hours.
There is no confirmed support act as of yet; however, it looks like this will remain as they have fronted this tour independently across the UK.
Doors for this event are opening from 6pm, and both bands are expected to take the stage from around 7:30pm onwards before combining into a supergroup in time for close.
For those of you heading to AO Arena, luckily, it’s connected to Manchester Victoria Station, and it has an integrated Metrolink stop to make your life even easier.
Head along the pink, light blue or yellow lines directly to the Victoria stop, and you can get off the tram literally spitting distance from the arena. You can find the full map HERE.
Train
Considering this live entertainment venue is situated right in the middle of one of Manchester’s most frequented stations, concertgoers should find no problem getting to the arena, wherever they are.
Bus
A variety of buses cover AO Arena andVictoria Station on their route, such as the 2 bus, which stops just a one-minute walk away from the venue.
A full list of buses and their routes can be found HERE.
Getting there by car and parking
The Arena has its own official CitiPark, with 958 car parking spaces, including 40 Blue Badge parking bays, which can be booked in advance.
Alternatively, anyone attending a gig can park at their nearest train station and jump on a train service or the various Metrolink park and ride facilities.
Walk/cycle
Greater Manchester now also offers the option to hire bikes through the Beryl app, with riders able to locate, unlock, get to their destination and then safely lock up the bike all through an easy-to-use app.
How to get to Co-op Live
Busted vs McFly are doing a clean sweep of Manchester arenas. (Credit: Audio North)
Tram
For those of you heading to Co-op Live, you’ll be glad to know it’s right next door to a rather famous big blue stadium and its integrated Metrolink stop.
Head along the light blue or orange lines directly to the Etihad Campus or Ashton-under-Lyne, and you can get off the tram literally spitting distance from the arena. You can find the full map HERE.
Trams run frequently on the Ashton-Eccles line to the Etihad stop, with services leaving every six minutes from the city centre until 1:00am on Fridays and Saturdays.
Bus
You can find the full list of bus routes HERE, with the one in closest proximity to the venue being the 53 bus, which runs from Cheetham Hill through to Higher Crumpsall, Old Trafford and Pendleton, leaving just a two-minute walk to Co-op Live. You also get free Bee Network travel with any valid event ticket.
Car and parking info
If you’re driving, there is limited parking available at the venue, but this must be pre-booked ahead of time, and there are designated drop-off areas.
The postcode is M11 3DU, and you can follow the signs towards the wider Etihad Campus as you get closer; directions to the adjacent drop-off points will also be signposted.
Keep in mind that congestion on the roads close to the stadium is expected to gather around two hours prior to any event, so if you are travelling on the road, these are the suggested times they provide come event day, though estimates will obviously vary:
Alan Turing Way (both directions): plan an additional 20 minutes into any journey by road.
Hyde Road (eastbound): expect an additional 15 minutes to be added to your journey.
Mancunian Way (westbound): plan for an extra 10 minutes of travel time.
There are also three park-and-ride facilities near Co-op Live, but be advised that the Velopark and Holt Town stops will be closed post-event to help safely manage crowds:
Ashton West (Ashton line) – 184 spaces and 11 disabled spaces
Ladywell (Ashton-Eccles line) – 332 spaces and 22 disabled spaces
Walk/cycle
Lastly, Co-op Live is only a half-hour stroll from Manchester Piccadilly, and you could even walk along the canal all the way to the front door if you fancy taking the scenic route.
Once again, the Beryl app is available for those looking to bike over to the venue; there are hire points just near the south-west corner of the Etihad Stadium on Ashton New Road.
For more information on all travel options, you can check out the enhanced journey planner.
Emily Sergeant -
22nd August 2024 
