At a time of increasing polarisation and division, it's more important than ever that we create spaces where people can come together to discover what unites them. 

As the number of community centres and third places has declined sharply over recent years, museums have increased in importance as public places that draw people from a wide variety of backgrounds, from all walks of life. 

Building on this unique convening power, we decided to launch a programme of events that aims to provide a powerful antidote to division and conflict. Founded on principles of collaboration and co-curation, Manchester Museum Celebrates aims to provide opportunities for connection, for friendship and for celebration of the diverse communities that make Manchester what it is. 

Women holding umbrellas and wearing traditional Chinese dress dance within Manchester Museum.

DANCERS PERFORM, DURING LUNAR NEW YEAR IN 2026.

A woman wearing a hijab talks to another person while gesturing with her hands.

CONVERSATION BETWEEN GUESTS, AT IFTAR IN 2025.

It all started back in 2019 when, against a backdrop of rising Islamophobia, we began delivering an annual community Iftar. The intention was to build stronger links with communities, provide safe spaces and develop greater understanding between cultures. 

The impact of this gesture was possibly best summed up by the University of Manchester’s Muslim Chaplain, Mohammed Ullah, during his speech at the 2026 event.

“So, what difference does an Iftar at the Museum make? In a world filled with division, war and the constant noise of social media, choosing to come together is not a small thing. It is a powerful thing. […] So tonight isn’t just about breaking a fast. It’s about refusing to let division define us. And as long as we keep opening doors, building bridges, and sharing table like this - hope will always be louder than hate.”

From those humble beginnings, a whole programme has emerged.  The year now starts with Lunar New Year, building on some of the themes present in the Lee Kai Hung Chinese Culture Gallery but also looking at how it is celebrated in other Asian countries, including Korea and Vietnam and working with community partners to create moments of rich cultural expression.

Vaisakhi, delivered in partnership with Manchester Sikh Foundation and Feed My City, is full of joy and togetherness, combining music, eye-catching martial arts performances, workshops and a Langar, a free communal meal that’s open to all. Africa Day, co-curated with Professor Erinma Bell MBE and CARISMA, brings together music, dance, fashion and food from across the continent, forming a key element of collaborative work with diaspora communities to tell stories about African cultural heritage.

Vesak is the most recent addition to the programme, celebrating one of the most important Buddhist festivals by following the Thai tradition. Later in the year follows Mid-Autumn Festival, which brings people together for lantern-making and family-friendly activities, and Diwali , which transforms the Museum in an explosion of colour and energetic performance. You’ve never seen dancing like at our Diwali!

Stan’s Secret Santa rounds it all off, embodying the Christmas spirit of giving by gathering donations for Manchester charities Barnabus, Mustard Tree and Wood Street Mission.

Two women wearing traditional African dress in orange, red, black and cream sing together into one microphone.

SINGERS PERFORM, DURING AFRICA DAY 2025.

All of these events are developed with faith leaders, charities, community organisers, researchers and more, bringing together thousands of people from across the city in moments of friendship and shared joy. These partnerships are vital in ensuring each celebration is authentic and meaningful but also accessible to all. 

The Manchester Museum Celebrates programme provides unique opportunities to learn about other people’s traditions and cultural heritage. 

But more than a series of events, it is a space where communities are seen, represented and valued and where people from different backgrounds come together to share stories and experiences. It turns the Museum into a playground for creativity and a platform for cultural dialogue, where curiosity is sparked, friendships are made and belonging is felt. 

Every event is an opportunity to discover something new, connect with others and take part in a city-wide conversation about culture, identity and community. Manchester Museum Celebrates shows what can happen when communities come together and how shared experiences can inspire understanding, joy and friendship. 