MIF25: Festival Square
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Festival Square
Always double check opening hours with the venue before making a special visit.
The beating heart of Manchester International Festival 2025 returns to its riverside location once again this year. Festival Square is popping up on the banks of the River Irwell, and for the first time also flooding indoors to The Social at Aviva Studios, for the duration of MIF25. This lively outdoor space in Manchester is the perfect location to catch up with friends, watch free live music performances and scoff down delights from one of the many hand-picked street food vendors.
Expect the same high standard of festival fun we’ve experienced in previous years. From late-night DJ sets to family-friendly events and activities, spoken word to live bands, and talks from artists across the full festival programme, Festival Square is all about discovering the best talent from the city and beyond, while enjoying a drink and a bite to eat.
Whether you want to head in before or after one of the big MIF25 events or you just fancy popping by to check out the latest happenings, Festival Square is set to be the hub of the entire festival, offering a welcoming, vibrant experience for visitors to this world-renowned event. This summer hangout will be open for the full two-and-a-bit week duration of the festival, right at the peak of summer when all eyes in the cultural world will be on Manchester.
Watch one of over 100 free live music performances
Wondering how to get here? Festival Square can be approached along Water Street (coming from Quay Street) or along Liverpool Road (coming from Deansgate or Castlefield). The Water Street route is the quickest way to arrive at the City Square entrance – the main entrance for this show.
Festival Square always brings the right vibes, usually beginning with mellow evenings of reflection and reconnection and ending with massive nights of joy and celebration.
