Manchester is getting ready for celebrations across the city on the run up to St George’s Day and the annual parade.
Supporting Community Celebration
For more than two decades the Council has supported Manchester’s annual celebration of St George’s Day (23 April) as an opportunity for people to come together and take pride in the institutions, traditions and values that underpin what it means to be English.
Whether that is pride in our communities, our shared experiences and the common bonds which unite us all, no matter our background, faith or upbringing.
As part of this year’s festivities Manchester City Council announced a new community fund for local groups to run celebrations across our city.
This will allow people throughout Manchester to celebrate in their own way, in their own streets, with their friends and neighbours. From street parties to community lunches, this is about giving our residents a chance to shape their own celebrations.
54 applications have been submitted to receive grants of up to £400 for local events in neighbourhoods across Manchester, allowing communities to celebrate together in their own way – a similar approach to how the city supports local VE Day and Armistice Day events each year.
The Parade Returns
Taking place on Sunday 26 April, the major parade event is set to be the biggest and best yet as Manchester’s communities comes out in force to celebrate England’s patron saint – this year marking its 21st outing.
The parade will include a host of entertainers, musical performers, civic and cultural figures as well as a showcase of England’s history and culture.
From local scout troops, pipe bands and local school children, to a dragon float, Henry VIII and his six wives, to St George himself on his horse, there will be something for everyone.
The parade starts at noon on Varley Street in Miles Platting before winding its way into the city centre.
Find full details of the event, including road closures
Cllr Bev Craig OBE, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “Since it’s foundation Manchester has been a proud city, rich in history and a place where people from all backgrounds have come together to live in unity. The Council is proud to support the annual St George’s Day festivities, helping local communities commemorate England’s patron saint through our Celebration Fund, as well as through our longstanding support for the St Georges’ Day Parade.
“More now than ever we look to St George’s Day to remind ourselves what it means to be part of the great city of Manchester. How we value one another, our shared history and the things we all have in common as Mancunians.”
Cllr Pat Karney, City Centre Spokesman for Manchester City Council, said: “It goes without saying that this year’s parade is set to be our biggest and best yet. I am always immensely proud to take part in St George’s Day celebrations as it often brings out the best in what our country has to offer.
“We have proudly supported this event for more than 20 years, and we salute the efforts of whole organising committee for their tireless work in promoting such a valuable community celebration.
“I am incredibly proud to lend my support to this event, and celebrate what makes England and Manchester so special. I’m looking forward to seeing as many people as possible on the day to enjoy this great day out.”
Karen Quinn, Secretary of the St George’s Day Parade Organising Committee, said: “As a committee, we are proud to continue this important tradition, celebrating not only St George’s Day but also the diversity and unity of our communities. This year’s parade, being our 21st, promises to be exciting, with something for everyone to enjoy.”