Now that we've (almost) recovered from seeing Britney in Brighton, it's time to get excited about Manchester Pride. This year's Big Weekend will include performances from Rita Ora and Jake Shears – but the hottest ticket in town is undoubtedly the Come As You Are Weekender.
From Friday 24th – Sunday 26th August, The Refuge by Volta will host a glittering array of DJs, performers and mad for it Mancunians uniting to celebrate the city's legendary spirit of togetherness (and enjoy a few signature cocktails, natch).
In just under two years, The Principle hotel's eatery-cum-nightspot has earned a reputation as one of Manchester's most beloved venues - thanks to it's globe-trotting menu and unparalleled DJ roster - but it's over pride weekend that it really comes into its own.
This year's spectacular promises to be no exception, and will include nightlife stalwarts seen in the recently released Boiler Room documentary, "Fleshback: Queer Raving in Manchester’s Twilight Zone". Celebrating the city's uniquely rich history of queer club culture, the film featured legendary gay night Homoelectric (curated by Luke Cowdrey from the Unabomber), who will be taking over the fairy-lit courtyard on Sunday.
Other acts not to be missed include Horse Meat Disco (James Hillard, Jim Stanton, Luke Howard and Severino, who will be bringing their unique brand of high-octane hedonism to The Basement on Friday night) and super-producer Joey Negro (a.k.a. Jakatta of "American Dream" and "So Lonely" fame, who will be manning the decks on Saturday). See you there?
Visit: www.refugemcr.co.uk