Drum for an audience of 42,000!
Batala Manchester has secured space for 180 drummer at the Adidas Manchester Marathon 2026, where 42,000 runners will take to the streets and soak up our beats to drive them to the finish line!
The Manchester Marathon is one of the UK’s biggest and friendliest mass-participation races. It’s known for being flat, fast, and very social, with a strong community feel. Race day turns large parts of Greater Manchester into a moving street festival, not just a sporting event!
The street entertainment at Manchester marathon is well known to be a stand out feature of the event, we will act as real motivation, breaking up the miles for the runners and lifting spirits at the 24 mile mark in the race.
We will perform together at Hulme Park at 12.00pm!
Schedule
⏰ Selected Manchester players
Arrive - 10.30am
Play - 11am - 12pm
⏰ FULL MUNDO & MCR BAND - ALL VISITING PLAYERS
Arrive - 11.30am
Play - 12.30-1.30pm
⏰ Optional open opportunity to play again
Arrive - 1.30pm
Play - 2 - 2.45pm
Timings and formation subject to change on the day
Drum maintenance team will be on hand to support with changing broken drum heads!
Travel
Roads closures will be in effect along and immediately around the Adidas Manchester Marathon route, and those roads in the surrounding area that are open will be very busy so please plan extra times for any journeys you need to take.
Many bus services will also be diverted due to these closures and Uber will be likely unable to get near to the performance space (same for parking your own car!).
We recommend bringing a drum trolley for large drums and walking if your hotel is nearby.
If you are located outside of the city centre, use Metrolink to travel to and from the Event as there are several stops close to Hulme Park.
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Closest Tram Stop: Deansgate-Castlefield, (15 min walk).
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Alternative Nearby Stops: Cornbrook or Trafford Bar (further walking distance).
For further details, please visit: www.beenetwork.com/manchester-marathon
You can also follow these twitter accounts for the most up-to date information regarding public transport: @MCRMetrolink @OfficialTfGM
Costume
Any full batala costume from the last 3 years (2025, 2024, 2023)
Refreshments
Our team of water fairies will be on hand at the gig in yellow jackets to keep you hydrated.
Please bring your own snacks or plan to eat around set times, suggestions of nearby places to find food can be found on our planning page.
Toilets
The Marathon organisers have told us they will have 'at least one' portaloo delivered to site that morning, though its likely that this is not guaranteed.
We advise using alternative facilities prior to arrival just in case.
Urgent enquiries: projects@batalamanchester.com