As the city with the largest LGBTQIA+ community outside of London, Manchester is home to many queer-friendly nightlife spaces. The commercialisation of queer districts, such as Manchester's Canal Street in the late '90s, led to an increase in cis-het partygoers curious about the previously marginalized scene. Subsequent culture clashes compelled promoters to offer spaces for more underground events away from the city's centre. Fast forward to 2022, where disused warehouses on the outskirts have become prime locations, shielded from prying eyes, for the community to connect and let loose. From queer hardcore nights to raves with a performing arts element, here are five recommendations for outstanding queer parties.

High Hoops/ Freak

High Hoops hit the Manchester scene with lightning speed ferocity back in 2015 and was an instant success for its high-octane house and techno selections. This fun-packed, queer-led event has consistently provided dance floor magic for its nighttime revellers. Artists such as Powder, Eris Drew and Job Jobse have all been guests of High Hoops. Their line up curations have solidified them as one of the most important events in Manchester’s queer nightlife. Keep an eye out for their signature disco ball, which sometimes makes a special appearance.

Chic

Manchester-based promoters Chic traverse a multitude of artistic mediums with their event curation, which aims to showcase creative queer work from within the city. Dancers can be seen sporting extravagant outfits alongside an array of film, sculpture and art exhibitions. On the dance floor, expect to hear anything from house to techno, hardcore, garage and disco. With residents like Peter Petroff, Sabrina and Jess Rose, you can rely on a multitude of electronic soundtracks that are specific to their home cities.

Kiss Me Again

This bi-monthly club night and promoter collective have been long-term mainstays at Soup's beloved basement location. Fans of Kiss Me Again praise its vibrant crowd, which exudes abundant energy on the dance floor. Revellers are free to express themselves without the fear of prying eyes thanks to Kiss Me Again’s no photo policy, encouraging guests to feel they can let loose and enjoy the moment. Guest DJs regularly bring an electrifying energy from their bass, house and techno selections. Jaye Ward, Wes Baggaley and Clemency are some examples of the talent that have been booked by Kiss Me Again.

Tough Act

"Queer Aggression. Militant Kindness" is the motto of full throttle promoters Tough Act. They were born out of the desire to bring exhilarating breaks, jungle and hardcore to Manchester's queer scene. Infamously known for teasing and building up suspense with their line up announcements, they’ve invited acts like I. Jordan and Angel D’Lite to The White Hotel’s caged booth. Be prepared to let things go a bit crazy and off the rails when you land up to a Tough Act event.

Creatures

Creatures brings experimental queer performance to the city through club nights, cabarets and drag shows. Their events give the community the tools to access their most extravagant fantasies and imaginations. Delving deep into the underworld of Manchester’s clubbing landscape, they bring curated alternative dance music to their events. Make sure to catch a glimpse of the performers’ intricate outfits with a dark twist.