DIVERSITY is the word to describe the rich programme of events that make up this Saturday’s Festival of Manchester (Sept 1) in Platt Fields Park. The global food stalls alone will be testimony to the multicultural variety of the city, celebrated in this, its first free annual festival, run by the city council.
If you can tear yourself away from the street grub vendors there’s a wealth of entertainment and family-friendly activities. The festival stage will feature performances from ska covers band Baked a la Ska, the Manchester International Roots Orchestra and the Manchester Gay and Lesbian Choir, as well as the Festival's own fashion show.
For sporty types there’s a range of sessions, BMX with the Great Britain BMX team, American football, skateboarding, netball and taekwando plus dance and yoga. Full programme here.
Arts collective Walk The Plank have created a spectacular performance that culminates at sunset in an encounter between a peacock and illuminated swan on the park lake with music and fire.
Festival of Manchester, Sat Sept 1, 12pm-10pm. Platt Fields Park, Fallowfield, M14 6LA. Free. On site parking £5 for all day.