Like the rest of the UK, and the world really, we’re absolutely buzzing for Eurovision this year. Obviously, it’s only the lucky few that’ll get to see the campy extravaganza in the flesh in Malmö, Sweden, so the rest of us need somewhere to let out our Eurovision excitement, and there’s so many events going on around Manchester for that very function. Whether you’re looking for a full-on party or just a special place to sip a Buck’s Fizz and take in the action, here’s a rundown of where to watch Eurovision in Manchester this year.
1. Freight Island
Everyone’s guilty pleasure for summer drinks, Freight Island is hosting a Eurovision extravaganza this May. Freight Island will throw the ultimate live watch party on their giant screens, and you’re invited.
On Saturday 11 May from 7pm, Freight Island kicks open the doors for a night of unruly fun. The show starts at 8pm, but with DJs spinning, performers lighting up the stage, and mass karaoke sessions, you’ll want to get down early. Get ready to sing, feast on the best street food, and sip on amazing drinks.
🎟️ Free tickets available here.
📍 Freight Island, Depot Mayfield, 11 Baring St, Manchester, M1 2PZ.
2. Ducie Street Warehouse
Industrial Manchester hub for food, drink, entertainment and so much more, Ducie Street Warehouse, is hosting a Eurovision screening this Saturday, in its cosy lounge area. DSW describes it as the ultimate Eurovision watch party, warning visitors to come early to grab a drink and seat to avoid disappointment.
Drop in on a whim, or gather your friends and family for a big night of Europop and all things camp, perhaps with a few sightings of drag queens that frequent the venue.
🎟️ Tickets are not required and entry is free.
📍 Ducie Street Warehouse, Ducie St, Manchester, M1 2TP.
3. Iconic Bar
For anyone who wants wall-to-wall coverage of the week’s Eurovision events, Iconic Bar in Manchester’s Gay Village is the place for you. The venue is hosting viewing parties for both semi-finals on Tuesday 7 and Thursday 9 May, and they’ll be providing scorecards and flags for you to get behind your favourite countries.
For the big final on Saturday, they’ll kick off the night the same way, then everyone is invited for a huge party afterwards, where you can dance your heart out to all the Eurovision classics till the early hours. And, best of all, entry for this event is completely free! Although it is set to be very popular so it’s worth securing a ticket in advance.
🎟️ Tickets available here.
📍 Iconic Bar, 29 Richmond St, Manchester M1 3NB.
4. The Cockatoo Club
Offering a classier way to watch all three Eurovision shows, the Cockatoo Club on Richmond Street is a Cabaret and cocktail bar with a distinctly 1920s feel, allowing you to enjoy the performances in style. Indulge in table service all night, with a wide selection of charcuterie boards and classic cocktails on offer.
The club will be screening Eurovision events on Tuesday 7, Thursday 9 and the grand finale on Saturday 11 May. Each night promises an after-show party, playing all your favourite Eurovision classics, and audiences for the final are encouraged to pre-book tables for free.
🎟️ Book a table for free here.
📍 The Cockatoo Club, 20 Richmond St, Manchester M1 3ND.
5. Bar Pop
Another Gay Village gem, of course, Bar Pop will be hosting a Eurovision viewing party on Saturday 11 May. With doors opening at 7pm, you’ll have plenty of time to get seated and get comfortable before the action starts.
After the show, their weekly DIVAS Cabaret Showcase will commence, so you can get some of that Eurovision glamour in person. If you’re in the mood for a good party, this place, and the crowds it draws every weekend, will not disappoint.
🎟️ Book here.
📍 Bar Pop, 10 Canal St, Manchester M1 3EZ.
6. Greater Manchester Eurovision Cinema Screenings
If going out on the town isn’t for you this year, but you still want to spend your Saturday night out of the house, cinemas across the country will be streaming the Saturday night Eurovision final Live. Enjoy the comfort of your local cinema and your favourite movie time snacks whilst watching the best Europe has to offer battle it out for the win.
Participating Manchester Cinemas in Greater Manchester include: Everyman Manchester St, John’s, Vue Manchester Printworks, Cineworld Didsbury, The Light Cinema Stockport, Everyman Altrincham, The Light Cinema Bolton, Cineworld Warrington, Vue Preston.
🎟️ Book tickets here.
