What’s on in Greater Manchester this November

The run up to Christmas has begun in Greater Manchester, and there’s plenty going on to get you in the festive spirit.

Music and Theatre

Birdy at Manchester Albert Hall
03 November 2016
Birdy has had a fantastic start to 2016 with the release of her third album ‘Beautiful Lies’ which charted in the Top 10 in 43 countries worldwide, including number 4 in the UK.

Catfish and the Bottlemen at Victoria Warehouse
09 November 2016 – 11 November 2016
Swiftly following the release of their eagerly anticipated new album ‘The Ride’, Brit Breakthrough Award winners Catfish and the Bottlemen announce a UK Tour this November that includes three huge dates at Manchester’s Victoria Warehouse.

George’s Marvellous Medicine at Manchester Opera House
15 November 2016 – 19 November 2016
When George’s grandmother drinks his special new potion, the most incredible things start to happen. And George’s adventure has just begun.

Chase & Status at O2 Apollo
22 November 2016
Following their incredible sold-out headline performance at Wireless Festival this Summer, Chase & Status have announced their 2016 UK tour.

National Ballet of China: The Peony Pavillion
22 November 2016 – 26 November 2016
The Lowry is set to host the prestigious National Ballet of China (NBC) this November (22–26) with a five-night run of one of the most enduring love stories in Chinese literature, The Peony Pavilion.

Billy Elliot at the Palace Theatre
29 November 2016 – 28 January 2017
Now celebrating 10 extraordinary years in London’s West End, Billy Elliot the Musical, comes to Manchester.

The Warehouse Project 2016
23 September 2016 – 01 January 2017
The Warehouse Project have announced their line ups for 2016 bringing the biggest names in the music industry to Manchester.

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Festive Events

Manchester Christmas Lights Switch On
04 November 2016
Manchester’s switch-on party will officially open six weeks of festive celebrations and attractions that make sure Manchester is well known as the Christmas capital of the UK.

Manchester Ice
04 November 2016 – 08 January 2017
For the first ever time, alongside the traditional fairground, Festive Cathedral Gardens will be home to a glittering ice rink.

Tree Lighting at Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet
09 November 2016
Marvel as Europe’s largest walk-in Christmas tree is lit up with musical fireworks & festive entertainment on Wednesday 9th November from 6pm.

Manchester Christmas Markets
10 November – 20 December 2016
The UK’s original, award winning Manchester Christmas Market return with the biggest and best festive offering to date.

Bar Hütte at Spinningfields
10 November 2016 – 01 January 2017
Bar Hütte is coming back to Spinningfields along with festive favourites, the Gin Apple Winter Toddy and the house special, the Twisted Bombardino.

Ideal Home Show at Christmas
10 November – 13 November 2016
Deck The Halls at The Ideal Home Show at Christmas, back this November at EventCity

The Winter Gathering at London Road Fire Station
11 November 2016 – 26 December 2016
See the stunning buildings and courtyard of London Road Fire Station transformed into a magical winter market, featuring an ice skating rink, street food stalls, bars, an art space and a programme of live music and DJs.

Father Christmas at the Farm
26 November – 18 December 2016
Come and see the favourite farmyard friends when visiting Father Christmas and his reindeer Prancer and Dancer at Tatton Park.

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Art, Exhibitions & Festivals

Heated Exchanges at Manchester Craft & Design Centre
14 October 2016 – 02 January 2017
Glass just got Super Cool. Materials, makers and ideas meld together in this cutting edge exhibition that defies expectations of contemporary glass and pushes this fascinating material to its limits.

Stonewall Season Opening Discussion
01 November 2016
Kicking off the Stonewall Season in Manchester is a powerful line-up of some of the leading LGBT activists in the UK discussing the topic of uniting communities.

Doki Doki Festival Manchester
12 November 2016
Doki Doki – The Manchester Japanese Festival is an event held in Manchester, UK, celebrating both traditional and modern Japanese culture.

Manchester Animation Festival
15 November – 17 November 2016
Hosted at HOME in Manchester’s First Street complex, the festival brings one of the UK’s biggest animation hubs together and invites the international community to join together to delight in all things animated.

Andy Warhol at the Whitworth
19 November 2016 – 16 April 2017
Andy Warhol’s work will be featuring at the Whitworth as part of their ‘Artists Room’ exhibitions which will show the sharp critical opinions of an artist known to many primarily as art salesman, purveyor of product and celebrant of capitalism.

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Shopping Events

VIP Shopping Event at Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet
04 November – 06 November 2016
Enjoy an additional 20% off outlet prices in over 60 stores and gain access to the exclusive VIP Lounge.

Manchester Fashion Weekender
05 November – 06 November 2016
It’s all about fun, fashion and freebies at Manchester Arndale as Manchester Fashion Weekender comes to town.

 For more inspiration this November go to visitmanchester.com.

What’s on in Greater Manchester this October

This month is absolutely jam-packed with events. If you’re looking for a full list of Halloween events, you can find that here.

Family

A Frightsome Halloween at Tatton Park
22 October 2016 – 30 October 2016
This half-term be spooktacularly entertained by a park full of Roald Dahl Witchy mischief, and plenty of mice.

The Enchantment of Chester Zoo
22 October 2016 – 31 October 2016
The perfect Halloween treat.

Halloween Laboratory at Play Factore
28 October 2016 – 28 October 2016
The creators of Play Factore have been busy brewing up a storm in the Lightening Laboratory to bring you the Halloween Experience of a lifetime.

Digital Kids Show
29 October 2016 – 30 October 2016
The Digital Kids Show is the chance to get hands on with all the brands behind the most loved tech toys, games, gadgets and much more.

The Family Pet Show 2016
01 October 2016 – 02 October 2016
The Family Pet Show comes to Event City for a 2 day family friendly event in October.

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Music and Theatre

All Saints at Manchester Academy One
08 October 2016
SJM Concerts and Live Nation present All Saints plus special guests live at Manchester Academy One.

Chetham’s Symphony Orchestra
20 October 2016
Join Chetham’s Symphony Orchestra on a promenade through the St Petersburg Academy of Fine Arts as they present Mussorgsky’s masterpiece in Ravel’s stunning orchestration.

Craig David at the Manchester Academy
21 October 2016
Following his Glastonbury debut Craig David is bringing his critically acclaimed TS5 show to Manchester Academy.

Dirty Dancing at The Palace Theatre
10 October 2016 – 15 October 2016
Full of passion and romance, heart-pounding music and sensationally sexy dancing, the record-breaking musical is even better than

Four Tops and The Temptations at Manchester Arena
22 October 2016
Timeless Motown legends Four Tops and The Temptations return this year to relive the R&B and soul classics that delivered Detroit to music history.

Ghost the Musical
25 October 2016 – 29 October 2016
This autumn Bill Kenwright will stage a new production of the timeless story of love, despair and hope.

Giselle at the Palace Theatre
27 September 2016 – 01 October 2016
Choreographer Akram Khan creates a brand new version of the iconic romantic ballet Giselle for English National Ballet, which receives its world première at Palace Theatre, Manchester.

Homegrown Folk Festival
13 October 2016 – 15 October 2016
The Met’s annual festival of the finest English Folk Music

Jake Bugg at Manchester O2 Apollo
18 October 2016
Jake Bugg has announced details of a UK headline tour, including Manchester’s O2 Apollo.

John Carpenter at Albert Hall
28 October 2016 – 29 October 2016
Next Halloween, John Carpenter will perform – live and in person – a musical retrospective of his horror soundtrack work, his debut studio album Lost Themes, plus brand new compositions.

Justin Bieber at Manchester Arena
20 October 2016 – 21 October 2016
Justin Bieber returns to Manchester Arena for two shows as part of his Purpose World Tour.

Kano at O2 Ritz
13 October 2016
Critically acclaimed UK rapper Kano brings his tour to the O2 Ritz.

Little Shop of Horrors
31 October 2016 – 05 November 2016
The Little Shop of Horrors is a charming, kooky and hilarious 1950s musical sci-fi spoof.

Nickelback at Manchester Arena
19 October 2016
Multi-platinum selling rock band Nickelback return to Manchester this October as part of their staggering tenth world tour. Support comes from fellow Canadian rockers Monster Truck.

Percolate
21 September 2016 – 19 November 2016
Acclaimed party crew Percolate are back once again this autumn with a tasteful party assault up and down the UK.

Rebecca Ferguson: Lady Sings the Blues Tour 2016
24 October 2016
Rebecca Ferguson returns to The Bridgewater Hall following the release of brand new album ‘Lady Sings The Blues’.

Regression Sessions at Antwerp Mansion
01 October 2016 – 01 October 2016
The UK’s favourite touring club brand and immersive party experience Regression Sessions comes to Manchester.

The Warehouse Project 2016
23 September 2016 – 01 January 2017
The Warehouse Project have announced their line ups for 2016 bringing the biggest names in the music industry to Manchester.

Voices of Remembrance
18 October 2016
Acclaimed actor Vanessa Redgrave joins Chetham’s Sinfonia and composer Laura Rossi for a special performance linked to the centenary of the First World War.

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Festivals

Grimmfest 2016
06 October 2016 – 09 October 2016
The 8th edition of Grimmfest film festival will take place at ODEON Printworks in Manchester.

Neighbourhood Festival
08 October 2016 – 08 October 2016
Brand new city centre festival taking place over nine venues and featuring over 100 international acts.

DM16 Festival
12 October 2016 – 23 October 2016
A celebration of design, with 37 events including film screenings, talks, workshops, exhibitions, debates and more.

Journeys International Festival
01 October 2016 – 12 October 2016
Journeys Fest Manchester is twelve days of extraordinary events that celebrates the artistic talent and incredible stories of refugee artists. Come and explore the diverse programme of free artistic activity, happening citywide

Manchester Literature Festival
07 October 2016 – 23 October 2016
Take part by attending venues across the city for a distinctly Mancunian celebration of literature and the imagination.

Oxjam Manchester Takeover
30 September 2016 – 02 October 2016
Oxjam Manchester Takeover Festival is back for 2016 to the streets of Chorlton for a mega weekend of live music.

Women in Comedy Festival
20 October 2016 – 30 October 2016
After three successful years producing Europe’s only Women in Comedy Festival, Dulcet Sounds, the producers of Laughing Cows Comedy established in 1998 bring the 2016 Women in Comedy Festival UK.

Manchester Oktoberfest
19 October 2016 – 23 October 2016
Oktoberfest with German beer, food and music is so much fun.

Manchester Food and Drink Festival
29 September 2016 – 10 October 2016
The UK’s largest urban food and drink festival.

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Art & Exhibitions

In Conversation: Wayne Hemingway and Lucy Siegle on Fashion and Sustainability
05 October 2016 – 05 October 2016
Award-winning fashion designer Wayne Hemingway and journalist and author Lucy Siegle discuss fashion and sustainability.

Oasis Exhibition
14 October 2016 – 25 October 2016
A must see exhibition for all nostalgic Oasis fans.

Off Beat: Jeff Nuttall and the International Underground
08 September 2016 – 05 March 2017
Delve into the renegade, provocative and brilliantly creative world of a pivotal figure in 60’s British counter culture.

Remember Them
06 October 2016
Poetry inspired by WW1, written by primary school children from Manchester and Jersey and set to music for children’s choir and ensemble by Laura Rossi.

Skyline Manchester, an exhibition by Andrew Brooks
05 October 2016
Skyline Manchester, an exhibition of large scale artworks by acclaimed photographer and artist Andrew Brooks

Yin-Ju Chen: Extrastellar Evaluations II
21 October 2016 – 15 January 2017
CFCCA invites Taiwanese artist Chen Yin-ju to exhibit Extrastellar Evaluations II, an exploration of cosmic events and human behaviour through the processes of mythology, scientific research and artistic response.

The Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair
06 October 2016 – 09 October 2016
A unique opportunity to purchase beautiful statement pieces for you and your home direct from over 160 selected designer-makers.

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Sporting Events

Super League Grand Final
8 October 2016
The Super League Grand Final returns to Old Trafford.

Rio 2016 Olympic parade
17 October 2016 
The National Olympic parade will take place in Manchester

Manchester To Host Snooker’s English Open
10 October 2016 – 16 October 2016
Snooker’s new English Open will take place at Event City in Manchester later this year, and tickets are now on sale.

Milltown to Moors Series – Half Marathon
16 October 2016
Milltown to Moors Series – Half Marathon

Rough Runner
15 October 2016 – 16 October 2016
Rough Runner returns to Manchester in 2016 having hosted their biggest event of the year in 2015.

For more inspiration go to visitmanchester.com.

6 Things to do in Greater Manchester this weekend (16-18 September)

Here is our guide to the best of what’s on in and around the Greater Manchester region this weekend.

Salford’s Big Day Out

A huge host of family events set to make a great day out in Salford, with plenty to keep the kids entertained. Find out more.

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Ramsbottom Festival

With its eclectic mix of indie, rock and folk music, as well as family arts shows and specially brewed ales, Ramsbottom Festival is set to return this weekend. Find out more.

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Gracie Fields Weekend in Rochdale

A weekend of celebrations to mark the unveiling of the Gracie Fields statue in Rochdale, including a dinner dance and children’s activities. Click here for more information.

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Chester Zoo Wildlife Connections

Two days of intimate wildlife encounters, nature activities, workshops, live music and cinema will take place at Chester Zoo as part of a new festival celebrating all things UK wildlife. Click here for more information.

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Greater Manchester Walking Weekends

People across Greater Manchester will have the chance to step out and discover more about the region’s heritage and countryside with Walking Weekends this weekend. More information.

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Albert’s Schloss: Oktoberfest

Albert Schloss is hosting it’s very own Oktoberfest at the heart of the Manchester Food and Drink Festival starting this weekend. Find out more.

Why not enter one of our competitions to win a meal for two at Infamous Diner, or a Family Ticket to Manchester City Women v Chelsea Ladies’ in the FA Women’s Super League. Find out more.

Have a great weekend exploring the region. For more inspiration go to visitmanchester.com.

5 Things to do in Greater Manchester this weekend (9-11 September)

Here is our guide to the best of what’s on in and around the Greater Manchester region this weekend.

Amaluna by Cirque du Soleil


07 September 2016 – 02 October 2016
Amaluna by Cirque du Soleil is in town with it’s legendary Big Top for the first time in six years.

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Made Here at London Road

10 September 2016 – 10 September 2016
25 hand picked designers will come together for a one off event at London Road Fire Station.

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Wonder Materials: Graphene and Beyond at the Museum of Science and Industry

23 July 2016 – 25 June 2017
What’s invisible to the human eye, thinner than a human hair and 200 times tougher than steel Graphene.

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HAND CRAFT exhibition at Manchester Craft and Design Centre

08 September 2016 – 30 October 2016
A celebration of craft, collaboration and heritage.

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Fashion and Freedom Exhibition at Manchester Art Gallery

13 May 2016 – 27 November 2016
Fashion & Freedom at Manchester Art Gallery sees some of today’s leading female fashion designers explore the impact the First World War had on the changing role of women and fashion.

5 Things to do in Greater Manchester this weekend (02-04 September)

Here is our guide to the best of what’s on in and around the Greater Manchester region this weekend.

Bolton Half Marathon

This is the newest half marathon in the UK, with a fantastic finish line experience at Le Mans Crescent in Bolton. Find out more.

Festejar Spanish Festival

Expect Spanish markets, dancing lessons and live bands when Albert Square is transformed into a little Spanish Oasis in the heart of the city. Click here for more information.

Sister Act at The Palace Theatre

This weekend is the final chance to catch the Broadway and West End smash hit musical, Sister Act at the Palace Theatre. Find out more.

The Gin Society Festival at Manchester Cathedral

The festival offers over 70 of the best gins from across the UK and Europe hosted in the beautiful Grade 1 listed building, Manchester Cathedral. Click here for more information.

UKFast 10k

The UKFast City of Salford 10k route starts on the picturesque MediaCityUK Piazza and allows runners to get a fast start, making it the ideal course to get that all important personal best. Find out more.

Have a great weekend exploring the region. For more inspiration go to visitmanchester.com.

 

5 Things to do in Greater Manchester this weekend (19 – 21 August)

Here is our guide to the best of whats on in and around the Greater Manchester region this weekend.

Chorlton Makers Market
20 August
Visitors will find the very finest of local food, drink, art, design, vintage, and modern craft carefully selected from Manchester artisans and business local to the North West. Find out more.

Morrissey at Manchester Arena
20 August
Morrissey has announced his only UK show of the year with a headline date at Manchester Arena as part of an international run of shows this August. Click here for more information.

Rochdale Feel Good Festival
19 – 20 August
Expect live music from established names, must-see rising stars and first class cooking from world renowned chefs. Find out more.

Great Village Bake Off 2016
21 August
The Great Village Bake Off returns to Manchester’s Gay Village this weekend. In it’s 4th year, this year’s Bake Off promises to be the best yet! Find out more.

Wigan Live Festival
19 August – 20 August 2016
Showcasing some of the best unsigned bands and soloists from the local area and further afield, Wigan Live Festival returns for a fourth year this weekend. Click here for more information.

Have a great weekend exploring the region. For more inspiration go to visitmanchester.com.

 

6 Things to do in Greater Manchester this weekend (15 – 17 July)

Here is our guide to the best of whats on in and around the Greater Manchester region this weekend.

Foodies Festival at Tatton Park

There’s a special focus on Brazilian street food this year to celebrate the Olympic host’s cuisine, as well as live cookery demonstrations, wine masterclasses, a whole host of international cuisines, and much more. Click here for more information.

Broken at Media City

Acclaimed UK dance company Motionhouse come to MediaCityUK for a free, one-off, outdoor staging of their earth-shattering production, Broken. Find out more.

Ironman UK

The UK’s premier long distance Triathlon, IRONMAN returns to Bolton this weekend. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the athletes in action. See more at Visit Manchester.

Raise the Roof at East Lancashire Railway

With quirky live music performances and the very best in local food and ales, there is no better way to contribute to a good cause while having a good time. Find out more.

Manchester Airport Aviation and Transport Festival

The Battle of Britain memorial flight will take place, and visitors will be able to see hot air balloons, and over 500 classic cars. Click here for more information.

RNCM Young Explorers Concert: Creatures in the Night

In this performance of Arthur Butterworth’s Creatures in the Night, the orchestra will recreate the sounds of the animals and will use lighting and other clever tricks to immerse the audience in the action. Find out more.

Your chance to win…a VIP trip for two with Virgin Trains

Be in with a chance to win return First Class tickets to Manchester, including an overnight stay at Hotel Gotham and three-course meal with cocktails at Pho. All you have to do is enter your details here before Friday 29 July 2016.

See our other competitions here.

Have a great weekend exploring the region. For more inspiration go to visitmanchester.com.

5 Things to do in Greater Manchester this weekend (08 – 10 July)

Here is our guide to the best of whats on in and around the Greater Manchester region this weekend.

Wigan International Jazz Festival

Celebrating the 31st Festival in style, Wigan Jazz Festival brings a programme packed with world-class artists. Find out more.

Tennis Family Weekend at First Street

Join First Street this weekend for a couple days of tennis-themed fun, including the Wimbledon Final. There will be magicians, music acts, tennis coaching, films, jugglers, face painting and much more. Click here for more information.

Northern Quarter Makers Market

Enjoy some eats, beats and treats at Northern Quarter’s Makers Market, with a whole host of crafts and creatives alongside some tasty treats and all the best music from DJ Pasta Paul. Find out more.

In a Forest, Dark and Deep at Salford Arts TheatreIn a Forest, Dark and Deep at Salford Arts Theatre

In a Forest, Dark and Deep is a gripping, dramatic tale of sibling rivalry. Betty and Bobby grew up together. They’ve argued their way through childhood and troubled teen years. Click here for more information.

Art Battle Manchester

Going head-to-head across two combat zones, a 600-strong capacity audience will watch painters, tattooists, illustrators and street artists take part in the city’s largest competitive live-painting event yet. Find out more.

Have a great weekend exploring the region. For more inspiration go to visitmanchester.com.

6 Things to do in Greater Manchester this weekend (03 – 05 June)

Manchester Histories Festival

Celebrate ‪‎Manchester‬‘s rich past at Manchester Histories Festival, and uncover the new and hidden histories from across Greater Manchester. Find out more.

Auke de Vries at Bury Art Museum and Sculpture Centre

This weekend is the last chance to catch Auke de Vries Bury Art Museum, an exhibition which includes approximately 25 works plus 20 framed drawings. Click here for more information.

Regression Sessions at Antwerp Mansion

The latest party series invites guests to suit up and blast off on an intergalactic safari through space, where visitors will discover new life and civilisations during a voyage through distant galaxies where an outer world experience awaits. Find out more.

German Bierfest

Don the lederhosen and head down to Albert Square for the first ever German Bierfest to come to Manchester. Find out more at Visit Manchester.

The Hallé’s Russian Spectacular

With searing melodies from Romeo & Juliet and Swan Lake combined in a no-holds-barred celebration of some of the most romantic music ever written. Find out more.

Coldplay at Etihad Stadium

For two nights this weekend, Coldplay will take over the Etihad Stadium as part of their huge world tour. Click here for more information.

What’s on in Greater Manchester this June

Food and Drink

German Bierfest
1 – 5 June
The German Bierfest comes to Manchester for the first time this year, bringing with it a whole host of German entertainment, food and drink. Click here for more information.

Manchester Beer Week
10 – 19 June
This will be Manchester’s first city-wide beer festival, set up with the aim of bringing together thousands of drinkers through a series of events celebrating brewing and pub culture. Find out more.

The Lowry Outlet Food Festival
24  – 26 June 2016
The Lowry Outlet Food Festival returns and this year it is joined by some of the regions best loved restaurant chefs, the nation’s baking sweetheart and winner of The Great British Bake Off Nadiya Hussain plus Reggae Reggae sauce legend Levi Roots. Find out more.

Get 50% off food at Neighbourhood
01 – 30 June 2016
Receive 50% off at Neighbourhood following their recent revamp when you book online. Click here for more information.

Family Events

Manchester Day
19 June
A day for families, residents and visitors to get together and celebrate all things Mancunian that have made Manchester one of the world’s most iconic cities. Find out more.

Saddleworth Show 2016
26 June
The show will be backed up by the usual craft, charity and food stalls, and promises to be a great afternoon out for all the family. Find out more.

RNCM Summer Family Day
26 June
For the second year running, RNCM is delighted to be joining forces with MMU’s Manchester Children’s Book Festival for the Summer Family Day. Find out more.

Festivals and Events

Manchester Histories Festival
3 – 12 June
The festival takes place over 10 days with events held at a wide range of venues across Greater Manchester. Click here for more information.

Parklife Festival
11 – 12 June
Manchester’s biggest music festival returns this summer with one of the best line-ups to date. Find out more.

Greater Manchester Fringe Festival
24 June – 31 July
The fifth Greater Manchester Fringe Festival takes place this summer with 108 alternative and innovative shows over 38 days at 30 different venues. Find out more.

Music and Theatre

Singin’ in the Rain at the Octagon Theatre
3 – 25 June
Featuring all of the favourite songs from the 1952 MGM film, including Good Morning, Make ‘Em Laugh, You Are My Lucky Star and the title song, Singin’ in the Rain! Find out more.

On Corporation Street at HOME
10 – 25 June
ANU Productions and HOME present On Corporation Street, an immersive promenade production inspired by the memories and myths surrounding this seismic event. Click here for more information.

Rihanna at Emirates Old Trafford
29 June
The world-famous artisit will play at Emirates Old Trafford on Wednesday 29 June 2016, supported by The Weeknd. Find out more.

Sporting Events

U20 Rugby World Cup
7 – 25 June
See the very best young rugby players compete in the World Rugby U20 Championship in Manchester this June. Click here for more information.

Horwich Festival of Racing
19 June
Since it began in 2002, Horwich Festival of Racing has grown to become one of the most popular sporting events in the North West. Find out more.