Manchester escapes the worst of the weekend weather as five major festivals bring music, food and culture to the region.

The Heaton Park Food & Drink Festival returns Saturday and Sunday with MasterChef champion Alex Webb and Manchester chef Mary-Ellen McTague leading demonstrations alongside street food traders Wagyu Lookin’ At? and Super Bao Street Kitchen. Tickets start at £6.95 for under-16s and £10.95 for adults, with live music from tribute acts Planet ABBA and Standing on the Shoulders of Oasis.

Green Island Festival takes over Hulme Community Garden Centre on Saturday, showcasing emerging talent including Meduulla, Conor & The Greenskeepers, and Lemon Soul Band. The free event for children under 13 runs until 9pm with DJs and activities throughout the day.

Oldham Library hosts the first day of Khushi Festival Saturday from 11am to 4pm, celebrating South Asian culture with performances from Saheli Women’s Group and Sonia Sabri Company. The festival continues Sunday at Northern Roots from 12pm to 3pm with henna, jewellery making and a miniature garden workshop.

Trans Pride expects 6,000 attendees Saturday for a city-centre march at 12pm followed by panels featuring Fox Fisher and Ben Pechey. The celebration extends into the night with a gameshow-themed comedy event at Contact Theatre at 7pm and an afterparty at Islington Mill from 11pm.

Hideaway Brewing Company in Salford launches Friday Night Live Friday from 4pm with £4 pints between 7pm and 9pm, burgers and live music from Warrington band Dogbone UK. The family-owned brewery promises “no ticket, no work tomorrow, no excuses” vibes for payday celebrations.

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