From a giant Big Ben sculpture to dancing on Deansgate: Manchester International Festival returns this week

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

After more than a year in lockdown, what better way to celebrate our freedom than the return of one of Manchester's most renowned festivals.

Manchester International Festival is making its long-awaited return to the city this week with a packed programme of free events, exhibitions, music and more.

Kicking off on July 1 and running until July 18, MIF21 is set to be the biggest event that Manchester has hosted since the pandemic first began.

The 18-day festival celebrates the very best of arts, culture, theatre, music and film and is set to put a spotlight on brand new talent at different locations all across the city centre.