Manchester International Festival - all the family friendly events at 2023 event

Manchester International Festival returns across the city from next week, promising a raft of world exclusive arts and cultural events with it. And this year's events include a host of attractions for all the family to enjoy.

That includes a city-wide treasure hunt, stunning art events and bold new theatre. MIF 2023's opening event will also bring families and young and old together to enjoy at Mayfield Park - the huge new public park in the city centre.

It will see a public gathering as people from all walks of life gather to celebrate community. It will kick start the festival on Thursday June 29, which will then run with events until July 16.

Read more: Join the FREE Manchester Evening News WhatsApp community

Here we take a look at all of the family-friendly events that you can either book to attend now, or head along to for free during the festival. Meanwhile Festival Square, the food, drinks and music hub, will have a new home this year right next to the huge new Factory International arts venue.

For all events where tickets are required, you can book these in advance at the official MIF website. There will also be a box office at Festival Square throughout the event.

Venue: Mayfield Park

Date: 29 June

Entrance: Free

Rivers from all over the world flow into our oceans, just like people from all walks of life come together to create a vibrant community. Each Tiny Drop celebrates this togetherness and the gift of water, drawing on ancient practices and river rituals from South Asian culture.

Each Tiny Drop welcomes you to take part, or simply soak up the atmosphere among family and friends. You’re invited to collect water specially transported from the Soan River in Pakistan and steward it into the River Medlock.