The international Pride month is long over, but luckily that’s not the only big LGBT+ event of the year. Manchester Pride, which takes place near the end of August, is yet to come. The four-day long event over the bank holiday weekend is chock-a-block with things to do, but here’s our picks of the very best…
Live music and more: The Big Weekend
This, the main event of the whole festival, takes over the Gay Village for the full four days. Tonnes of gay-friendly singers are set to appear, including Rita Ora, Alexandra Burke, and Jake Shears. There’s also DJ sets from Pete Tong and Dave Pierce. In addition to the nightlife, there’s also the arty alternative Superbia. Taking place at No. 70 Oxford Road (formerly the Cornerhouse), and other venues, this is a programme of film premieres, conversations and community workshops. The full line-up will be announced soon.
Fri 24 – Mon 27 Aug, The Gay Village, Canal Street, Manchester, M1 3WD, Times vary, £12.50 – £30, www.manchesterpride.com
Everyone’s welcome: The Pride Parade
Another popular favourite, the Parade will see thousands of people marching together through the streets, in front of tens of thousands of supporters who will be cheering them along the way. The theme for this year is “The Circus of Acceptance”, and it will feature many different LGBT+ groups, each showcasing their skills. Stilt walkers, unicyclists, jugglers and trapeze artists are all expected.
Sat 25 Aug, Manchester City Centre, Exact time and parade route TBA, www.manchesterpride.com
Massive clubnight: Glitterbox at Albert Hall
Following their sold-out debut show back in May, Glitterbox returns to the Albert Hall, this time for the official after party for Manchester Pride. This wild club night will feature classic House and Disco, with Roger Sanchez, Simon Dunmore, and Hifi Sean on the decks. And appearing live is the USA’s own Julie McKnight, who has lent her soulful voice to many a Funky House hit. Read our full preview here.
Sat 25 Aug, Albert Hall, 7 Peter Street, Manchester, M2 5QR, Last entry 11pm (12am with a Pride wristband), £27.50 – £44.00, www.alberthallmanchester.com
Quality clubbing: Come As You Are Weekender at The Refuge
The high-end bar Refuge has three days and nights of events taking place in its public bar, courtyard, and basement. Expect street parties, DJ sets, and even more food and drink than usual. There will be performances by Cha Cha Boudoir, Haus of Decay, and Carmina Entertainment. Some events are free, but some require tickets. See the link below for the full line-up details.
Fri 24 – Sun 26 Aug, The Refuge, Oxford Street, Manchester, M60 7HA, Times and prices vary, www.facebook.com
Queer clubbing: Homoelectric Bank Holiday Showdown at Hidden
In a warehouse, down an unassuming backstreet near Cheetham Hill, lies a nightclub appropriately named Hidden. The venue’s annual Pride/Bank Holiday event returns, featuring: Michael Upson (Love Muscle), Gina Breeze, and Jamie Bull. Tickets are available via the link below, or without booking fees from No Angel Boutique on the first floor of Afflecks.
Sat 25 Aug, Hidden, DownTex Mill, 16-18 Mary Street, Manchester, M3 1DZ, 10pm – 4am, £17.85, www.skiddle.com
- Words:
- A. James Simpkin
- Published on:
- Tue 10 Jul 2018
