Watch Highlights Film of We Invented the Weekend 2026

Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 June saw Salford Quays and MediaCity, host one of the UK’s most ambitious, creative, original and fun-filled festivals celebrating the weekend – in the place it was born.

Visitors of all ages shared their appreciation for the free festival, with many emphasising the sense of community and variety of activities on offer:

“Recommend it to absolutely everyone”

“What I particularly enjoyed this year was the demographic of people taking part. From little ones and teenagers to mums, dads, and pensioners, it felt incredibly inclusive and welcoming.”

“It’s amazing to see how many people are here”

“An amazing cross-generational event”

“Loved the mix of types of people, there are probably lots of people that maybe wouldn’t engage with cultural activity otherwise because it’s free and easy to access.”

With over 117,000 visitors in 2026, We Invented the Weekend is now one of the largest free festivals in the North of England and the largest free festival in Greater Manchester.

We Invented The Weekend will return in summer 2027 – dates will be announced soon.