Universally Manchester Festival

Start: Saturday, June 13, 2026 11:00AM
End: Saturday, June 13, 2026 4:30PM

Join us for a jam-packed day of inspiring talks, hands-on science activities, creative sessions, performances, heritage tours, and the chance to meet with our staff, students and community partners. With over 80 interactive stalls there’s something for everyone! From art to atoms, music to medicine, poetry to planets - there's plenty to discover and do – with activities on offer for all ages. Uncover the mysteries of the human body from top to toe as we take a closer look at our hands, hearts and minds. Explore the wonder of space, step into a world of virtual reality and play with our robot friends. Learn the art of calligraphy and get crafty as we explore celebrate languages and cultures. Together we’ll explore what makes for a greener, healthier and fairer world for everyone. One of the festival’s standout features is the Bee Curious programme, featuring thought-provoking talks and performances for all ages. Explore rhythm, sound, and music in an immersive drumming performance with Afrocats artist Godfrey Pambalipe. If you’ve ever wondered about a day in the life of a frog, how mind games play out in the Traitors, or how poetry helps to understand the world around us – then this is not to be missed. Pop along to our university community allotment, find out how biodiversity helps to keep our air healthy and grab a sunflower to take home. And then there’s our ever-popular Flash Bang Show where you can expect fantastic colour changes, flashes and the occasional bang - get ready to hold on to your hats! Our Universally Manchester Festival is taking place on our Oxford Road campus and is free and open to everyone.