Member Article

Manchester Day celebrations Go Global

Community groups, volunteers and organisations have two weeks left to apply to be part of Manchester Day - one of the biggest parties in the North West.

Now in its fifth year, the event is a celebration of the city’s history and heritage and has become a key part of the city’s summer calendar of events.

Last year more than 2,000 people were involved in the parade watched by tens of thousands of people who flooded the streets to soak up the carnival atmosphere.

Now Manchester City Council in partnership with Manchester Day producers, outdoor arts experts Walk the Plank, want to hear from any groups, volunteers and organisations across the city to be part of the 2014 event.

The aim is to make Manchester a giant party on Sunday 22 June, transforming some of the city’s squares, along with mouth-watering food and drink, vibrant performances and, of course, create a spectacular parade celebrating the city and what is means to be Mancunian.

This year, the celebration will feature the theme of the city Going Global, reflecting the idea that Manchester is a clear world leader that has influenced culture and history across the world.

Groups can work individually or several groups can come together to develop creative ideas to fit the Going Global theme. Most groups will also be paired with a professional artist that will help develop an idea realise the incredible artworks, props and costumes.

Individuals, small groups, families or anyone else who wants to take part can join larger group, volunteer on the day or simply help out at Manchester Day’s creative hub, ‘The WOW Workshop’.

Cllr Pat Karney, Chair of Manchester Day, said: “Manchester Day is the summer’s must-see event in the city – unmatched in its scale and ambition, it the part of the year in the North West.

“Thousands of people flock to see the larger than life art works parade though the city centre, celebrating the achievements and rich heritage that Manchester has enjoyed through the ages.”

Cllr Rosa Battle, Manchester City Council’s executive member for culture and leisure, said: “Manchester Day is a fantastic and unique opportunity for community groups, volunteers and individuals to get involved with one of the biggest events in the region - working with some of the North West’s top artists to create the extraordinary designs that wow the crowds each year.”

Billie Klinger, Producer, Walk the Plank said: “We hope the theme inspires groups to come up with wonderful ideas that reflects who they are, what they do, their interests, their work and the things that are important to them.

“It’s a hugely positive experience for people to see their ideas transformed into artworks – it offers local residents the chance to develop new skills with us, whilst celebrating everything that’s great about the city.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Simon Malia .