More than 2,000 people paraded through Manchester on 5 July 2026 for the 136th annual Madonna del Rosario procession, a tradition started by the city's Italian community nearly 140 years ago. The event, which began as a religious festival, now celebrates the culture and traditions of Italian migrant families and their contributions to Manchester.
Procession Route and Participants
The procession started at around 1pm on George Leigh Street in Ancoats, an area once known as Little Italy due to the Italian immigrants who settled there. Participants carried religious emblems, including a statue of The Madonna, from Ancoats across Manchester city centre, passing the Town Hall and arriving in St Peter's Square at approximately 2.30pm. The parade then returned to George Leigh Street for a short blessing outside the former St Michael's Church.
The event featured bands, traditional dress, and flags, with the parade led by the Lord Mayor of Manchester and the Bishop of Salford. Photographer Kenny Brown captured the procession, showing crowds lining the streets.
Historical Significance
The Madonna del Rosario procession first took place in the 1880s, when Italian immigrants brought their religious traditions to Manchester. According to organisers, the event has grown from a small community gathering to a major cultural celebration, drawing thousands of participants and spectators each year. It highlights the lasting impact of Italian migration on the city's identity.
