Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice Chancellor, invites you all to come along, be curious and join in the fun.

Join us on Saturday, 13 June 2026, 11am – 4:30pm for a day of curiosity, inspiration and play.

As part of the University’s ongoing civic commitment to sharing our research, teaching, and cultural work with the wider public the Festival offers a welcoming and inclusive space for conversations and connections.

Each year the Universally Manchester Festival welcomes thousands of visitors from across Greater Manchester and beyond on to our campus for a free family-friendly event.

This year’s Festival programme will have something for everyone! Together we’ll explore what makes for a greener, healthier and fairer world. Take part in over 80 hands-on science activities, creative sessions, and heritage tours. From atoms to art, music to medicine and poetry to planets there’s plenty to discover and do – with activities on offer for all ages.

Take a journey through the body and learn what makes us human, find out how diverse cultures, creativity and wellbeing come together, unearth fascinating stories of space, technology and engineering.

The day will also celebrate our vibrant cultural institutions, including Manchester Museum, Jodrell Bank, and the Whitworth, who will host drop-in exhibitions and workshops throughout the day as part of the Festival.

One of the Festival’s standout features is the Bee Curious programme, featuring thought-provoking talks and performances for all ages. Manchester Museum Assistant Herpetology Curator Bethany Dean will ask ‘how can we save the word’s frogs?’ Social psychologists, Dr’s Doron Cohen and Stacey McKnight will take us on a deep dive into the psychology behind ‘The Traitors’ and Afrocats musician Godfrey Pambalipe will lead a rhythmic drumming session – no experience needed – just bring your enthusiasm and have a go!

Meet up with our heritage specialist to tour the campus and hear how the University’s history has shaped innovation and society. From the fight for women’s access to equal participation in education, to radical thoughts and pioneering individuals, our work has led to groundbreaking discoveries that impact everyday life.

Pop along to our University Community Allotment, a partnership between the University of Manchester and Ardwick Climate Action. Explore biodiversity at the allotment, get your hands dirty and plant sunflower seeds to take home and grow. Continue your investigation of nature alongside the team from the Firs Botanical Gardens. Learn how growing plants for food, beauty, or science connects us with the environment and supports sustainability.

• For full programme details, see universallymanchester.com