What’s On in Manchester in July 2025: events guide

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Manchester is set to sizzle this July with a packed calendar of live music, family festivals, fairs and cultural celebrations.

Whether you’re into outdoor gigs, adrenaline-fuelled funfairs or art-filled weekends, there’s something for everyone across the city.

Here’s your guide to the best events in Manchester this month.

Live Music and Big Names

Kicking things off is MCR Live 25, a free city-centre concert series running every weekend from 3rd July to 28th August.

Expect live performances across multiple venues celebrating Manchester’s music scene.

The AO Arena is also bringing the heat, with major acts like Kool & The Gang hitting the stage on 11th July while Lynyrd Skynyrd’s 50-year celebration tour arrives 15th July featuring Blackberry Smoke.

Festivals and Cultural Events

The beloved Manchester Mega Mela returns to Platt Fields Park on 12th - 13th July.

This free celebration of South Asian culture features food stalls, traditional dance, music and crafts for all ages.

Family Days Out

Zip World at Heaton Park launches 17th July with treetop swings and high-adrenaline courses for thrill-seeking families.

The adventure attraction runs through to the end of August.

Plus Trafford Centre brings the summer fun with its Summer Fair running now until August.

The Wythenshawe Summer Funfair brings classic rides and games from 25th July to 3rd August.

July also welcomes the return of the Manchester International Festival (MIF), bringing global art, music, and theatre to stages across the city.

Check individual event websites for tickets, times and accessibility information.