Free things to do in Manchester this August Bank Holiday weekend FT Edge Fest, Pride & more

One of South Manchester’s most cherished arts venues is inviting the community to join Edge Fest, a special day of celebration as it marks its 15th birthday and launches an ambitious new heritage project exploring 140 years of local history.

The Edge Theatre & Arts Centre will throw open its doors from 11am until 11pm for a day packed with entertainment, workshops, performances, food and drink, bringing together artists, audiences, volunteers and local residents to celebrate everything the venue has achieved since opening in 2011.

Good Custard and Lil Miss Jackie are teaming up for a free NQ street party this Saturday.

Having launched just a year ago, the trio behind Lil Miss Jackie have made a big impact on the scene, taking over venues from Ibiza and London to their proud home of Manchester. A fiercely queer collective who focus their music towards that famous northern powerhouse sound, which is sure to turn any dance floor into a frenzy.

The annual KMAPUS Pride weekend bank holiday street party is back with a bang, hosted by energetic Manchester label Good Custard.

Festivities kick off in the afternoon, followed by an after-party at Redlight, for whom this will sadly be the final hoorah, after the team announced the bar would be closing its doors after this weekend.

The Hip Hop Chess Club is back for its sixth event since launching back in May, and this time, it’s coming to Salford’s Tangerine.

Totally free, the event is all about community, good vibes and, of course, chess. All levels are welcome, and boards are provided, but feel free to bring your own!