Beyond the 9-5: The Best Things to Do in Manchester this June

Whether you’re a fan of books, history, food or folk, you’ll be well catered to with Manchester’s eclectic roster of events this June.

Naomi Chadderton

An experienced editor and journalist specialising in news and lifestyle.

Beyond the 9-5 is our round-up of all the best things to do in Manchester each month. In June we’ve got exciting new F&B openings, candlelight concerts, literary festivals and much more.

1Enjoy a Staycation in a Brand-New Hotel

Eco-conscious, playfully designed and perched right in the city centre, Treehouse Manchester has finally opened its doors in the city centre, following its London outpost in 2019. Expect five-star service, seasonal British cuisine with a twist from in-house restaurant Pip, and quirky rooms filled with plants, local crafts and retro touches. It’s the kind of place where grown-up luxury meets youthful spirit—ideal for a weekend break without the travel stress.

Blackfriars Street, Manchester

exterior of Treehouse Manchester at dusk

2Spend a Day Out at Balloons & Beats Festival

A popular outdoor festival set just outside the city in picturesque Platt Fields Park, Balloons & Beats brings together live music, international street food, hot air balloons and immersive art installations in one fell swoop. Expect vintage fairground rides, tribute bands and even tethered balloon rides for stunning views over Manchester - weather permitting, of course. Great for grandkids, even better for grown-ups.

27th-28th June: Platt Fields Park.

Love balloons? Take a look at our round-up of the six best balloon festivals around the world

3Enjoy One of the City’s First Productions From the English National Opera

In one of the most significant cultural moves in recent years, the English National Opera begins its phased relocation to Manchester in 2025. Their summer season opens with a stunning new production, which will be presented for the Manchester Classical festival at The Bridgewater Hall this June, in a collaboration between the Chorus of ENO and The Hallé. Whether you’re an aficionado or a curious first timer, this is your chance to witness history in the making.

Date TBC; eno.org

4Watch Brazilian Music Duo Anavitória Perform by Candlelight

What started as two childhood best friends singing covers on YouTube in 2014 has since evolved into Anavitória — a Grammy-winning pop-folk duo from Araguaína, Brazil, who’ve since sold out shows across Europe. Following the release of their 2024 album Esquinas, the pair will perform live inside Manchester Cathedral this June as part of the Candlelight Original Sessions, and you can expect hits including Trevo, Fica and more, all performed under the glow of thousands of candles, their soothing harmonies.

June 21st: Manchester Cathedral; feverup.com

5Celebrate Stories at the Festival of Libraries

Back for another year, the Festival of Libraries celebrates the best of Greater Manchester’s literary past, present and future. From walking tours and rare manuscript viewings to children’s author readings and spoken word performances, this city-wide celebration is as joyful as it is accessible, and a must for those who like to while away their days in the company of a good book. Whether you’re rediscovering Elizabeth Gaskell or exploring new poetry in a local branch, there’s something for every reader.

June 4th-8th: various locations around Manchester.

6Eat at a Legendary New Restaurant

It has regularly been touted as one of London’s best restaurants since it opened its doors in 2019, and now it’s finally Manchester’s turn. Legendary Italian restaurant Circolo Popolare, famous for its fairy-lit ceilings, wall-to-wall bottles and over-the-top tiramisu, is bringing its bold, playful style to the North this June, so prepare for plenty of oversized cocktails, Roman-style pizzas and indulgent pastas. Yes, it’s busy, yes, it’s buzzy, and yes, it’s absolutely worth it.

Opening June 6th: No. 1 St Michael’s, Deansgate

7Catch Olivier Award-Winning ‘Dear England’ on Stage

If you missed its National Theatre run, now’s your chance. Dear England - James Graham’s critically acclaimed play about Gareth Southgate’s transformation of the England football team - comes to The Lowry this summer, blending sport and soul-searching with a sharp script and emotional depth. Far more than a football story, expect laughter, heartache and one of the best performances of the year. It’s only running for four weeks though, so get your tickets ASAP.

'Till June 29th: The Lowry.

8Step Into the Past at Manchester Histories Festival

Perhaps one of our favourite ways to explore the city’s vibrant history, the bi-annual Manchester Histories Festival throws everything from one-of-a-kind exhibitions and performances to debates and tours. Now in its 10th edition, this year the free four-day festival will be jam-packed with four new music World Premieres, walk-about performances, family crafts workshops, live music, comedy, and public talks, with over 50 history and heritage stalls showcasing eclectic and diverse entertainment. Whether you’re attending a talk at Manchester Central Library or joining a guided walk, it’s a fascinating reminder of the past shaping our present.

June 6th-9th: various locations around Manchester.