‘Abracadabra’ announced as theme for Manchester Day

The official countdown to this year’s Manchester Day has begun with this year's theme being announced today.

Now in its eighth year, 'Manchester Day' has helped celebrate the city, its history and its people's shared future, with a different theme each year. 

This year’s Manchester Day will be held on the 18 June, Sunday, with the theme being 'Abracadabra.'

Manchester City Council are hoping this theme will hope to encourage Mancunians to celebrate the everyday magic of Manchester and the historical achievements of its people.

Each year Wow Workshop, an army of artists and volunteers from various community groups in the city, helps to create thousands of structures, artworks, costumes and props for the festivities.

The parade will spill over into the city centre squares for a full afternoon of entertainment, food and drink, full details of this will be revealed in the coming weeks. 

Liz Pugh, co-founder of Walk the Plank and Manchester Day's executive producer, said: “Now in its eighth year we’re delighted to be working on another Manchester Day in partnership with the City Council. 

"This annual celebration of all things Mancunian is not just a brilliant day out but a fantastic way in which a wide range of community groups can present their unique identity and culture to the people of Manchester.”

Councillor Pat Karney, the Chair of Manchester Day, added: “It’s a magical time to be in Manchester as we begin the countdown to the best event of the summer – where the streets and squares are transformed into a huge open air stage and more than 2,000 people parade through the city centre. 

“Now the hard work begins. The hundreds of artists, community groups and volunteers will be working tirelessly for the next two months to make our wildest imaginations come true before our very eyes."

There is still time to be part of the show, either by helping to create the miraculous parade or by volunteering to help on the day. 

Visit the official Manchester Day website and find out more in the “Get Involved” section.

Keep up with all the Manchester Day news at the official twitter – @Manc_Day – and join the conversation using #McrDay17