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What’s on in August in Greater Manchester: more free events to visit

  • Writer: Helen Clarke
    Helen Clarke
  • Aug 2
  • 2 min read

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From carnivals to community picnics, Manchester’s free summer calendar is bursting with colour, music, food and family fun this August. If you’re looking for things to do that won’t cost a thing, here are a few more events to add to your diary - including street festivals, live music, outdoor funfairs and creative workshops just a tram ride away.


Manchester Caribbean Carnival - Alexandra Park (9th - 10th)


A staple of the summer, this vibrant weekend brings live music, traditional Caribbean food, costume parades and community pride to Alexandra Park in Whalley Range. Expect dancers, steel bands, DJs and a huge celebration of Caribbean heritage and Manchester culture.



Debdale Park Funfair - Gorton (8th - 17th August)


Rides, games, street food and classic fairground fun for all ages. Free to enter (pay per ride) and just a short ride from Manchester city centre. Ideal for families, dates or spontaneous sunny afternoons.


Cringle Park Fair - Levenshulme (30th - 31st August)


A smaller, more local version of the Debdale funfair with all the charm and none of the queues. Perfect for families looking for something walkable and fun to round off the month.


MCR Live ’25 - ongoing Street Music Festival


Running daily across the city centre until 28 August, this summer-long series brings live music to public squares, street corners and hidden corners of town. Expect surprise pop-ups, lunchtime performances and open-air culture - all totally free.


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Feel Good Family Picnic - Rochdale parks (August)


Theatre, circus, storytelling and outdoor dance - the Feel Good Family Picnic series brings high-energy, family-friendly programming to local parks across Rochdale, just 30 minutes from Manchester. A great one for kids, especially if you’re looking for something wholesome, active and screen-free.


Free community workshops & events


From beginner fundraising webinars to social impact meetups, August also brings free training and connection opportunities for creatives, volunteers and local changemakers.


Highlights include:


  • Get Grants Beginner Workshop (7th Aug, online)

  • Media Trust: Accessible Content Webinar (20th Aug)

  • GMYN Breakfast & Networking Event (21st Aug, city centre)


Looking for more? Don’t miss our full guide to:



Got an event you want us to cover? Get in touch

 
 
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