Freight Island

Since opening in those crazy days of summer 2020, Freight Island has successfully transformed itself into one of the North’s most exciting urban market and entertainment spaces.

And now, it’s back for its fifth year with a sparkling new line-up of events and happenings. Let’s dive in.

It’s open now with a fresh new look, new kitchens, and its biggest ever free spring/summer festival series.

This season sees the arrival of Ornella’s Little Kitchen, offering an intimate restaurant setting with table service, alongside other additions such as MOREJOY Chinese BBQ, Gooey’s indulgent weekend French toast, and Hello Oriental’s signature desserts. Returning house favourites, including Patterson’s, Burgerism, and Mega Gyros, will also launch new menus for a refreshed dining experience.

The free festival series is set to be the biggest yet, featuring world-class DJs, live acts, and club nights, with performances from David Rodigan, DJ Paulette, Greg Wilson, Congo Natty, Crazy P (DJ Set), Moovin Festival, and more.

Additionally, Kantina Thursday is a new weekly supper club at Freight Island, launching on June 5, 2025, that spotlights bold UK culinary talents through rotating chef residencies. Each Thursday, a £25 prix fixe menu is served communally on The Platform, with a new collaboration announced monthly.

The debut residency runs for four weeks and pairs cult newcomers MOREJOY with Japanese-inspired HAKKAPO, offering a bold family-style menu of dishes like Dandan butter bread, BBQ Napa cabbage, sesame buckwheat mazemen, Laziji fried chicken, duck fat jasmine rice, and Hong Kong-style French toast. Wine pairings are available via Manchester Wine Festival.

From music to food and drink, with some awe-inspiring bookings along the way, Freight Island is a one-stop shop for all things fun in 2025.