Things to do in Manchester on August Bank Holiday weekend: What’s on from 26-29 August

As summer draws to a close, Mancunians are gearing up for one last long weekend of fun this August Bank Holiday.

From food festivals, music events and family fun days, there’s something for everyone happening this weekend.

The most high-profile event of the weekend is Manchester’s annual Pride Festival, with a whole weekend program of celebrations, but there’s also the Italian cultural festival Festa Italiana in the city centre and another one for the foodies – Bolton Food and Drink Festival.

Here are some other events happening this weekend to keep you entertained whatever the weather.

Moovin Festival

Whitebottom Farm, Stockport

Friday 26 August – Sunday 28 August

Stockport’s Moovin Festival returns this Bank Holiday weekend with a knockout line-up of artists from across the musical spectrum – from soul legend Roy Ayres to drum n bass pioneer Shy FX. You can also take part in an eclectic range of activities, including a gong spa, yoga classes and “fruit and veg-based” games.

Weekend tickets start at £120, not including camping passes, and day ticket options are also available. More information can be found here.

Carnival Heritage

Manchester Central Library

Saturday 27 August, 6-8:30pm

If you missed out on this year’s Manchester Carnival, which recently celebrated its 50th year, head down to Central Library this Saturday where you can learn about the festival’s history and the local Caribbean community behind it.

Expect steel drums, carnival costumes and entertainment, as well film screenings of archive footage and attendees of the early festivals sharing their stories.

Entry is free but booking is required. More information can be found here.

Halal Food Festival

Bowlers Exhibition Centre, Manchester

Saturday 27 August – Sunday 28 August

Sample Halal food from around the world at the Halal Food Festival in Trafford, where you’ll also find an artisan market, cooking demonstrations and competitions.

There will also be entertainment for both adults and children, so families are welcome.

Tickets start at £8 and can be purchased here.

Den Fest

Great Northern Warehouse, Deansgate

Friday 26 August – Sunday 28 August

If you’re wandering through the city centre this weekend, there’s a free outdoor music festival at Lion’s Den at the Great Northern Warehouse.

Headlined by Manchester DJ and Inspiral Carpets keyboardist Clint Boon, the line-up features some of the local music scene’s rising talent. There will also be a pop-up bar courtesy of Dead Man’s Fingers rum.

This event is free. More information can be found here.

Luna Outdoor Drive-in Cinema and Country Summer Fayre

Tatton Park

Friday 26 August – Sunday 28 August

There are two events happening this weekend at Tatton Park.

The Luna Outdoor Drive-In Cinema will be showing musical classics West Side Story, Grease and Moulin Rouge, as well as Baz Lurman’s latest film Elvis. Book your tickets here.

The Country Summer Fayre will also be taking place at the Farm on Saturday-Monday, offering traditional English fun, including crafts, Morris dancing, and games like tug-of-war.

The daily timetable is yet to be released but ticket information can be found here.