MANCHESTER PRIDE
15—25 AUGUST
MANCHESTER GAY VILLAGE
Manchester’s annual Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) festival celebrates its 18th birthday this year. The ten-day festival features an exciting programme of art, literature, political, sporting and party events in the lead up to the 78 hour Big Weekend celebrations (22–25 August). The highlight of the Big Weekend is the Manchester Pride Parade (23 August) which winds its way through the city’s streets, creating a carnival of colour.
www.manchesterpride.com
MANCHESTER FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL
3—13 OCTOBER
VENUES ACROSS THE CITY
As the festival enters its second decade, a sumptuous banquet of exciting and creative events will be on the menu, with a dish for all tastes. The now legendary Festival Pavilion will host the most innovative celebration of the region’s food and drink yet, with celebrity chefs, demonstrations, tastings, special events and entertainment. Meanwhile the region’s restaurants, bars, cafés, pubs and producers will be presenting a veritable feast of food, drink, competitions, talks and masterclasses.
www.foodanddrinkfestival.com
MANCHESTER LITERATURE FESTIVAL
16—26 OCTOBER
VENUES ACROSS THE CITY
The festival presents some of the world’s most influential and inspirational authors and poets in prestigious and unusual venues across the city. With an eclectic line-up including everything from crime and romance to poetry in translation, there is something to suit everyone’s literary palate. This year’s festival will also feature a special series of science-themed events and there will be plenty of unique workshop opportunities for audiences to develop their own creativity.
www.manchesterliteraturefestival.co.uk
MANCHESTER COMEDY FESTIVAL 2008
16—26 OCTOBER
VARIOUS VENUES
Now in its ninth year, Manchester Comedy Festival celebrates all things funny in the city and throughout the region. The festival rejoices in Manchester’s huge comedy heritage with laughs for young and old. The ten day, multi-performer, multiple venue event will see local acts and big names sitting side by side, alongside showcases, workshops, competitions and much more.
www.manchestercomedyfestival.co.uk