After a week of intense heat, Greater Manchester is set to enjoy cooler and more pleasant conditions this weekend, with sunny intervals forecast. This provides an ideal opportunity to explore a variety of events across the region, from football fanzones to street parties and cultural celebrations.
Armed Forces Day in St Peter's Square
On Saturday, June 27, St Peter's Square in Manchester will host a series of free events from 11am to 4pm to mark Armed Forces Day. The event pays tribute to serving personnel, veterans, cadets, and their families. The Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester and the new Lord Mayor of Manchester will be in attendance. Highlights include live performances from local military bands, children's activities, and the chance to get up close to military kit and equipment.
Bury Comic Con Returns
On Sunday, June 28, Bury town centre will be transformed into a hub for comics, sci-fi, and movies as the Bury BID Comic Con returns for its fourth year. The free event is larger than ever, taking over multiple venues. Fans can explore themed zones, meet special guests, and participate in activities. The Doctor Who zone features Paul McGann (the Eighth Doctor), while the Sci-Fi Zone includes characters like Darth Vader. The Movie Zone showcases famous film vehicles.
Red Light Cocktail Bar Street Party
To celebrate its third birthday, the all-female-owned cocktail bar Red Light will host a street party on Little David Street. The event, running from 4pm to 10pm, features a lineup of all-female DJs including Black Betty, Eden Binks, and Kim Lana. Dancing in the streets will be followed by an after-party inside until 2am. The first 100 guests receive a free Aperol Spritz.
England vs Panama Fanzones
On Saturday night, England plays its final group game against Panama at 10pm. Pubs, bars, and venues across Greater Manchester will show the match. Dedicated fanzones include the We Are Football festival at Freight Island, Victory at the Baths at Victoria Baths, and the World Cup Fan Zone at Edgeley Park, hosted by Stockport County.
Sparkle Weekend in the Gay Village
The UK's longest-running celebration of trans and gender-diverse life, Sparkle Weekend, returns to Manchester's Gay Village from Friday June 26 to Sunday June 28. Organised by Sparkle - The National Transgender Charity, the event welcomes thousands of visitors for a weekend of community, culture, and visibility. The family-friendly festival includes wellness activities, youth provision, talks, workshops, market stalls, food, and drink. All ages are welcome. Standard tickets cost £7.50.
