The Royal Exchange Manchester is joining celebrations as the Manchester Flower Festival returns to the city from Saturday 23rd to Monday 25th May.

Organised by Manchester City Centre BID on behalf of city centre businesses, the festival is now in its ninth year and has become a firm favourite in Manchester’s cultural calendar. Each year, it draws tens of thousands of visitors with a vibrant programme of events and activities.

This year’s theme, ‘Green Manchester’, highlights the city’s growing green spaces and its vision for a more sustainable future.

Partnering with Verdure Floral Design (The Royal Exchange Flowers), The Royal Exchange Manchester will present ‘Exchange in Bloom’, located in St Ann’s Square.

The installation celebrates the essential role of bees and their often-overlooked connection to urban life. Inspired by The Royal Exchange’s own rooftop hive, the display will feature fragrant, bee-friendly planting designed to attract and support these vital pollinators.

Reflecting the rich history of The Royal Exchange as a hub of trade, exchange, and community, the garden draws a compelling parallel between human systems and the intricate, collaborative world of the beehive.

At its heart, the installation is about connectivity—demonstrating how small actions, like those of bees, contribute to sustaining something far greater. Visitors are invited to reflect on how urban environments can better support nature, encourage connection, and promote shared responsibility.

Four additional displays will also be showcased across St Ann’s Square and King Street as part of the festival trail. Alongside the stunning floral installations, visitors can enjoy a packed programme of talks, tours, and workshops. Family-friendly entertainment will be provided by the Conker Crew, ensuring there’s something for all ages.

The Festival Zone will be alive with activity throughout the weekend, featuring alfresco dining, pop-ups, markets, processions, and more—making it the perfect bank holiday destination for the whole family.

WIN!

You have the chance to win a prize worth over £800. The #ExchangeInBloom Prize Draw is open until 23:59 on Monday 25^th May. One lucky winner will receive a luxury bundle with prizes from brands including; Mulberry, Lululemon, L’Occitane, Jenny Jones, Anthropologie and more.

To enter, visit The Royal Exchange Manchester’s Instagram page:
https://www.instagram.com/royalexchangemanchester/

For full details and terms and conditions, visit:
https://www.theroyalexchangemanchester.com/exchange-in-bloom-prize-draw-terms-and-conditions/

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