Creatives, Students, and Visionaries from all over the North-West are invited to get involved in the Ultimate bucket hat competition!

We’re thrilled to announce HATS OFF!!!, a one-of-a-kind competition that invites the entire Northwest to unleash their creativity and design an iconic bucket hat! Whether you’re a university lecturer, student, artist, designer, or just love making things, this is your chance to shine.

What’s it all about?

The Yard Manchester, in collaboration with The Yard Atelier CIC and renowned local bag designer Edward De Lacy, is calling on you to design and create a bold, unique, and outlandish bucket hat using a pattern provided by Edward himself. The wilder and funkier, the better! All whilst raising essential funds for cancer care and treatment, research, education, and extra patient services for The Christie.

How does it work?

Step 1) Download the Bucket hat PDF template and exclusive short video below from Edward De Lacey, showing how to construct your bucket hat. https://www.theyardmcr.com/events/hats-off-bucket-hat-competition/

Please note- When printing your PDF hat template, ensure that that document is printed at 100% scale, or the template will print too small!

Take your time crafting your masterpiece, but make sure it’s posted or dropped off at The Yard Manchester by 11 AM on August 29th, 2025.

Postal Address - FAO Hats Off!!!, The Yard, 11 Bent Street, Manchester, M8 8NF

Only physical bucket hats can be entered into the competition. Hats can be constructed in any manner you choose. Digital applications will not be accepted.

Step 2) Once you’ve created your masterpiece, click the start fundraising button and set up your page. Make sure to include an image of your bucket hat on the page and then share with all your friends, families and colleagues.

Why take part?

All hats will be showcased at The Yard MCR on September 4th, 2025, from 12 PM to 5 PM, followed by an incredible DJ lineup from 7 PM to late!

Not only will your hat be exhibited, but the top creative fundraiser will win some exciting prizes.

Two AO Arena gig tickets, and a one-night stay at City Suites, four tickets to a future Yard MCR gig, a £100 bar tab at The Yard and a limited-edition coloured Oasis vinyl worth £200.