United We Stream was back with a bang.
While NYE was pretty much cancelled this year under England’s current tiering system, United We Stream returned following its lengthy stint during lockdown – where it entertained locals on a weekly basis while raising vital funds for Manchester’s night-time economy. And as Manchester’s hospitality scene remained dormant under tier 3 and 4 restrictions, Mayor Andy Burnham requested the special event for Mancs to enjoy – aiming to raise funds to provide support to the locals affected the most by the pandemic, including those in hospitality and retail who have lost their jobs during this incredibly testing time.
The Hacienda 24 Hour House Party NYE
Well that was some New Year’s Eve! We hope everyone enjoyed the event & that it raised people’s spirits as well as raising over £100K for the designated charities. If you haven’t been able to do so already, please do… https://t.co/1wGLS0Jzi6 pic.twitter.com/DLPs7OGbtK
— Graeme Park ⭐️⭐️ (@graemepark) January 2, 2021
The party, which was hosted by Manc legends FAC51 The Haçienda, saw the likes of Haçienda Classical, Graeme Park, Grammy award-winning record producer and DJ David Morales and former Joy Division and New Order band member Peter Hook perform – among many, many more. Running for a whole 24 hours – the virtual event pulled in a whopping 4m viewers from across the globe and raised an even more impressive £115K for OneGM, Save The Children UK, Peace Meal in Hulme and The Frankie Knuckles Foundation.
You want to see something incredible? Here’s a map of everywhere that tuned in to our @StreamGm @Fac51hacienda 24 hour extravaganza. Places in blue tuned in to our show, broadcast from @themet in Bury. We’ve agreed we need to up our game in Africa and Greenland. TY & HNY all ❤️🌎 pic.twitter.com/tywArvovwy
— StreamGM (@StreamGm) January 1, 2021
448 artists generously donated their time to help with the cause, which has contributed to United We Stream’s pot of (now) £583K, which will be split between the above charities.
Donations are still being accepted, and you can support United We Stream’s chosen charities here.
In recent Coronavirus news, the UK has become the first country to approve the Pfizer vaccine – bringing hope to many.
[Featured image: FAC 51 The Hacienda]