Summer Factory at Aviva Studios

Throughout the summer, Aviva Studios (home of Factory International) will host a bumper line-up of free activities, alongside unmissable arts and culture.

With something for all ages, Factory International have ticked all the boxes with their Summer Factory programme. Head into the city for a dreamy summer of live events by the riverside at Aviva Studios.

Alongside the fantastical Sweet Dreams, a cutting-edge storytelling experience by the award-winning arts collective Marshmallow Laser Feast, you’ll find a packed programme of live music, film screenings, family activities, Manchester Pride warm-up events and tasty street food. And with a whole menu of free events happening in the Social, you’ve got everything you need for a fun-packed day out, come rain or shine.

Head into the city for a dreamy summer of live events by the riverside at Aviva Studios.

Ahead of the Manchester Pride celebrations, our friends at Aviva Studios are hosting some really exciting events as part of their Factory Pride programme. From 17-21 August, Factory International joins forces with SCENE, a brand-new Manchester LGBTQ+ film and television festival. Expect to see a diverse programme of screenings, special guests, talks and celebrations showcasing the best of contemporary and classic LGBTQ+ cinema and TV.

Meanwhile, the party gathers pace on 21 August with Pride Stages, a packed night of music, drag and cabaret, hosted by Wolfy. Get ready for Manchester Pride with Pride Stage commissioned artists, Bennettiscoming and Violet Blonde. Plus, the night doesn’t have to end after the performance – you can carry on partying with Kim Lana at a post-show DJ set. Tickets are free but should be booked in advance.

Enjoy the summer vibes and stay refreshed and refuelled in Factory Square.

Additionally, you can just sit back, enjoy the summer vibes and stay refreshed and refuelled in Factory Square. On event days, you can expect the best local street food traders (including brand-new taco truck and coffee cart), pop-up wellness events for adults and families, and DJs bringing the tunes.

Plus, to tie in with the (long) school holidays, Factory International will host free, drop-in activities – inspired by Sweet Dreams – for little culture seekers and their families throughout the summer. With a blend of multi-sensory experiences, gaming and cinema, everyone’s happy.

Round up your friends and family. Whether you’re people-watching on the riverbank, experiencing Sweet Dreams or gearing up for Manchester Pride celebrations, there’s never a dull moment at Aviva Studios this summer.