Upcoming Events in MediaCity & The Quays

World Cup fever takes over MediaCity 

As the home of the BBC’s World Cup coverage, MediaCity is going big this summer with an action-packed programme. Fans can play 5-a-side on a pop-up pitch in the heart of MediaCity, while watching matches on the screens, fans can get involved in the free to use Gaming Hub. A free Content Pavilion with a podcast studio and rooftop deck also puts creators at the heart of the action, alongside appearances from a giant TIFO and huge adidas Trionda ball are your perfect photo backdrop.

Image credit: Sophia Jcarey

Lowry summer highlights

This summer, Lowry offers the kind of mix that makes it easy to build a day around the Quays. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a theatre trip or simply looking for something different to do, there’s plenty here to draw you in from playful exhibitions for younger visitors to big-stage entertainment with a dose of nostalgia.

Wild Things is a lovely pick for families with younger children. This free exhibition brings together favourite characters and stories in a playful, hands-on way, with original illustrations and interactive spaces that invite little ones to explore, imagine and join in.

For something bigger and brilliantly feel-good, Disney's High School Musical lands at Lowry’s Lyric Theatre this summer, bringing the energy of East High to the stage in an immersive new production. With familiar songs, a standout cast and plenty of fun, it’s one of those shows that promises a lively night out by the water.

Don't miss Lowry 360, a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of LS Lowry’s iconic painting, Going to the Match, in the UK’s first free permanent immersive experience. 

GRUB On The Docks

Running across the summer months, GRUB On The Docks will bring together a rotating line-up of independent street food operators, a curated drinks offering and a programme of events designed to make the most of the waterside setting. 

From the likes of Sizzling Seoul’s East Asian bowls, Dukes Po Boys big American flavours, Umami Cartel with their Japanese and Mexican fusion, Oppa Korean Dogs, Sazume Sake bar from the people behind Michelin guide The Sparrows and I love brioche for your chicken and waffle treats with many more special traders and chefs still to be announced. 

Expect bold global flavours, summer-ready drinks, a packed events line-up (wellness, comedy, kids stuff, you name it) live music and DJs, alongside a laid-back social atmosphere that moves from daytime hangouts into evening sessions.

Step into 65 years of drama at the Coronation Street Experience

Step behind the scenes of Manchester’s most famous street with the Coronation Street Experience. Once filming wraps, visitors are invited onto the real working set for a guided 90-minute tour of the iconic cobbles. Discover legendary locations including the Rovers Return, Roy’s Rolls and The Kabin, while hearing the stories that have made Coronation Street a national treasure for more than 60 years. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, it’s a truly memorable experience.

Thanks to the Government’s temporary VAT reduction on selected admission tickets, visitors can enjoy reduced prices on Coronation Street Experience tours throughout the summer. The savings are already included in the ticket price for pre-booked Guided Tours and Star Tours, making it an even more affordable way to explore one of the UK’s most iconic television sets between 25 June and 1 September 2026.

Free family fun at IWM

Step into the secret world of Spies, Lies and Deception at IWM North’s free family-friendly exhibition. Discover how espionage and daring deceptions have shaped conflict from the First World War to today, and uncover the human cost of living undercover. Young visitors can test their skills in the Mission Room, following a top-secret trail through the exhibition. Intriguing and interactive, it’s a fascinating day out for curious minds of all ages.

Things to do at Quayside this Summer

Quayside is set for a sunshine-filled summer, with a lively programme of food, fun and family-friendly experiences by the water. At the heart of it all is Kargo MKT, home to 20 international kitchens and a vibrant events calendar featuring wellness sessions, creative workshops, live entertainment and family discos.

Families can enjoy even more this summer at Oxygen Activeplay, where unlimited summer play, new Soft Play sessions and SEN Peaceful Play offer something for every kind of adventure.  From 18 July to 31 August, children aged 4+ can enjoy unlimited high-energy fun at Oxygen MediaCity with a summer-long Passport to Play, offering up to 270 hours of action-packed indoor adventures for just £35.

Brewski’s BIG TRAY BBQ brings relaxed dining with lunch and happy hour offers, while TeeClub at The Quays brings social golf indoors, with fun for all ages and abilities, family-friendly deals, a waterfront coffee spot and a relaxed bar.

Get involved in Salford 100

This summer is also a chance to be part of something bigger, as Salford marks 100 years since it was granted city status. Salford 100 brings together a year-long programme of free events shaped by creativity, community and local pride, with opportunities to join in, share stories and celebrate the city in ways that feel genuinely rooted in place. Whether you want to listen, make, watch or take part, it’s a brilliant way to experience the energy and spirit of Salford for yourself.

Songs of Salford creative session

• Monday 22 June, 1pm–3pm, St Clements Church Hall
• If you’ve got a memory of Salford, a story to tell or simply want to be part of creating something special, the Songs of Salford session is a lovely one to join. Led by creative producers From The Other, this workshop invites residents and anyone with a connection to the city to share memories and turn them into poetry, with the chance for those words to become part of a professionally released album celebrating Salford’s centenary.

Free to attend, with no booking needed.

The Wagon Train at Middlewood Locks

• Saturday 4 July, 3pm–10pm, Middlewood Locks
• The Wagon Train brings a festive, community feel to Middlewood Locks, with an afternoon and evening programme designed to get people together by the water. Expect a lively mix of music, workshops, makers’ markets, street food and family-friendly activities, building towards a sunset light and fire finale that promises to make this one of the standout moments in the Salford 100 celebrations.

Free to attend, with no booking needed.

With even more exciting events on the way this summer, there’s plenty to look forward to! Keep an eye out for the latest what's on.

With a packed schedule of arts, entertainment, sports, and cultural events, MediaCity is the ultimate summer destination in Greater Manchester. Whether planning a day trip or a weekend stay, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities suited for all ages.

Stay updated with the latest event announcements by following MediaCity’s official website and social media channels.

• Getting Here: MediaCity and The Quays is easily accessible via tram, bus, and car, with parking available.
• Accommodation: Visitors can choose from a range of hotels within walking distance.

Plan your visit now and make the most of everything MediaCity & The Quays has to offer.

To find out more about what's on, visit Whats On in Manchester | The Official Events Guide