Manchester is preparing to celebrate International Women’s Day 2026 with a wide range of community led events that will highlight the achievements, creativity, strength, and resilience of women and girls across the city.
Once again, funding has been made available through the annual International Women’s Day grants programme, enabling local organisations to design and deliver their own activities. These community initiatives will take place across Manchester between 23 February and 15 March, alongside a main celebration event scheduled for Saturday 7 March at Manchester Central Library. The programme is designed to bring people together from all backgrounds and age groups to recognise and support the progress of women in society.
Events planned across the city include a diverse mix of activities such as inclusive sports sessions, creative workshops, radio production projects, wellbeing activities, performances, and community discussions. This broad range of events reflects Manchester’s commitment to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to take part in meaningful and accessible celebrations.
The international theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is “Give to Gain.” This theme highlights the importance of mutual support, shared learning, and collective growth. It encourages individuals and organisations to work together by exchanging knowledge, sharing resources, and actively supporting one another. The aim is to create stronger communities where women feel valued, protected, and empowered to reach their full potential.
The principle behind the theme is that when people contribute to the success and wellbeing of others, everyone benefits. By investing in opportunities that support women and girls, communities help to build safer, more inclusive, and more successful environments for all. This spirit of collaboration is central to this year’s programme across Manchester.
A key part of the celebration includes a rich programme of workshops, performances, talks, and panel discussions. These activities are being delivered in partnership with a wide range of organisations, including community groups, voluntary sector organisations, local businesses, and youth organisations. Together, they aim to create spaces where women and girls can share their experiences, express their talents, and celebrate their contributions to society.
Manchester City Council has also developed a local theme for this year’s celebrations, “When women thrive, we all rise.” This message reinforces the importance of gender equality and community cohesion, emphasising that the progress and wellbeing of women has a positive impact on the whole of society.
Through this citywide programme of events, Manchester continues its commitment to recognising the value of women and girls, promoting equality, and strengthening community connections across the city.
