Exclusively for families, Manchester is about to run wild for one day only, in a free, magical adventure across the city as part of Dig the City 2015.

We have heard rumours that beneath the Manchester we know so well, vines twist around the subterranean canals, and wildness lives hidden below the streets. Once a year, the secrets of the city are revealed – but only to families. Intrigued? So are we. An anarchic adventure is coming for one day only, run by Wild Rumpus (producers of the Just So Festival) for the fantastical finale of Dig The City 2015.

On Thursday 6 August, families should prepare to run amok – for free. Arm yourself with a magical map from the Information Point (on Exchange Street), keep your wits about you and you’ll meet the creatures of the wild from 10am onwards. Discover their secrets, find your way through their tricks, mysteries and clues to discover a clandestine location and join them at a revelry of gigantic proportions at 3pm. Come expecting anything, prepared to get muddy and, in particular, wet.

On Thursday 6 August, families should prepare to run amok – for free

There will be clues at different locations across the city, and bizarre beetles, bumblebees, grasshoppers and dragonflies to meet. Discover secret passages, swop nature in exchange for information, encounter surprising happenings and mysterious messages that appear in unexpected places. Don’t miss a photo opportunity at The Botanical Collection of Curiosities, investigate the most curious Bureau de Change and watch the public premiere of The Restoration Agency, a bizarre pop-up theatre installation staffed by eccentrics determined to return lost property to their rightful owners.

Best of all, you can start your adventure now. Follow curious clues, receive secret messages, dress and reading inspiration on Twitter, through both Wild Rumpus and Dig the City. Join the Run Wild Child Facebook page here, and share your experiences and photos on the day to help others follow the trail, discover the secret location and see the creatures of the wild’s annual moment of revelry. Good luck!