Music
Weekend city guide: 22 – 24 July
It’s going to be hot, hot, hot this weekend – and we’re not talking about the temperature.
Does world-class sailing float your boat? Want to watch international athletics and cricket? Or you could go to an intergalactic festival. Oh, and in between all that, enjoy a motion picture exhibition and loads of music. This is just a peek at what’s happening in cities across the UK this weekend!
In addition to the fun things listed here, visit our London, Manchester and Scotland guides for more can’t-miss events.
LONDON
Müller Anniversary Games
The Stadium, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
22 – 23 July
Get ready for fast times at the IAAF Diamond League meet and IPC Athletics Grand Prix Final where global stars are being pitted against each before heading to the Rio 2016 Olympics. This is a great chance to see Mo Farah and Jessica Ennis-Hill in action.
Suggs: My Story in Words and Music
O2 Sherpherd’s Bush Empire
23 July
Madness frontman Graham ‘Suggs’ McPherson has a one-man show. Yep, you read that correctly. Blending drama, music and stand-up, this presentation about his life was prompted by the death of his cat on his 50th birthday – and, trust us, it’s both funny and moving.
Annastasia Baker
Jazz Cafe
24 July
Catch this rising British gospel star in one of London’s most popular live music venues. Baker, a former X Factor contestant and the 2013 winner of the gospel talent search show Time2Shine, will be accompanied by her band in this Close Up performance.
MANCHESTER
England v Pakistan
Emirates Old Trafford
22 – 25 July
This is a pilgrimage every cricket fan should make. Last weekend Pakistan won Test 1 at Lord’s after four days of exciting play, so now they lead the series 1-0. Come show your support for England during Test 2 at the home of the Red Rose.
Bluedot Festival
Jodrell Bank Observatory near Macclesfield
22 – 24 July
Here’s a new and unusual festival that merges a love of space, science and technology with out-of-this-world music. Underworld, Jean-Michel Jarre and Caribou are the headliners. With live experiments, cosmos-inspired street food and camping under the stars, Bluedot is sure to be a blast.
ABERDEEN
The Moscow State Circus
Queen’s Link
Until 7 August
The circus has come to Aberdeen! Don’t miss this crazy Russian circus led by Wizard Wako and his wacky sidekick. In addition to their buffoonery, you’ll see acrobatics, juggling, roller skating and high-wire walking that will blow your mind.
GLASGOW
King Tuts Summer Nights 2016
King Tuts Wah Wah Hut in Glasgow
Until 30 July
Get tickets to support this festival dedicated to celebrating Scotland’s emerging music talent. More than 70 acts are being showcased over two weeks including Calum Frame on 22 July, The Nickajack Men on 23 July and Dixie Fried on 24 July.
MORE CITIES AROUND THE UK
PORTSMOUTH
America’s Cup World Series
The Race Village / Southsea Common
22 – 24 July
This sailing extravaganza is set to thrill as six teams race from Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight – and you won’t find a more beautiful backdrop than The Solent with the Spinnaker Tower standing tall. Cheer on the British team, Land Rover BAR (led by Sir Ben Ainslie), in their quest for the Auld Mug.
BLACKPOOL
Scene – Motion Picture Exhibition
Blackpool Winter Gardens
22 – 24 July
Ready to explore a whole wide world of replica fan-made movie props? You can immerse yourself in the Wild West, deep space and Camp Blood – plus check out David Hasselhoff’s chosen UK KITT car. It’s a cinema lover’s paradise!
LIVERPOOL
Jools Holland and His Rhythm and Blues Orchestra
Liverpool Philharmonic Hall
24 July
Let Jools Holland sweep you away with magnificent music and a party atmosphere. His 19-piece orchestra is packed with talented artists including the UK’s queen of soul Ruby Turner and drummer Gilson Lavis.
