What’s On in Greater Manchester this March

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Easter in Manchester

Ramsbottom Chocolate Festival
19 – 20 March
Chocolate, entertainment and family fun brought together in a deliciously tasty festival in Ramsbottom. Need we say any more? Click here for details.

Charlie Chocolate Easter at Tatton Park
25 – 28 March
Enthralling trails, spell binding magic shows, captivating puppet theatre plus a Stable yard of chocolatey treats to eat and scrumptious things to buy. Find out more here.

The Passion at HOME
25 – 26 March
In the historical surrounds of Campfield Market, an abridged version of Bach’s iconic oratorio St Matthew Passion is brought to life as an immersive fully-staged opera. Click here for more information.

Something for the family

Junkyard Golf Club
1 – 31 March
Bring family and friends along to Junkyard Golf Club this March for a fun-filled crazy golf experience with music and cocktails. Find out more at Visit Manchester.

The Cat in the Hat at The Lowry
11 March – 13 March
With the trickiest of tricks and craziest of ideas, The Cat in the Hat turns a rainy afternoon into an amazing adventure. But what will mum find when she gets home? To find out more, click here.

Cirque Berserk at The Palace Theatre
7 – 9 March
With thrilling stunts and mind-blowing tricks, Cirque Berserk will be an action-packed event guaranteed to entertain. Click here for more information.

Peppa Pig’s Surprise at The Lowry
30 March – 31 March
Peppa Pig, George and their friends are back in a brand new live stage show, Peppa Pig’s Surprise. Enjoy fun, loads of songs and of course, surprises in this charming, colourful new show. Click here for more information.

Manchester Irish Festival
4 – 20 March
With over 200 events at 100 different venues, Manchester Irish Festival is now firmly established as Europe’s biggest Irish Festival outside of the Emerald Isle. Find out more.

Arts and culture

Manchester Film Festival
03 March – 06 March
Writers, directors and producers, along with established industry professionals and film lovers alike are all invited to celebrate the best independent cinema from around the world. Find out more.

King Charles III at Manchester Opera House
7 – 12 March
Prince Charles ascends to the throne after the passing of The Queen, but what future lies ahead for new monarch? Find out in this entertaining performance. More information here.

The Witches at The Lowry
21 – 26 March
Literature comes to life on stage at the Lowry this March as Roald Dahl scariest book is transformed into a terrifying treat for the family. To find out more go to Visit Manchester.

Chicago the Musical at Manchester Opera House
21 March – 2 April
Based on real events in the roaring 1920s, international award winning Chicago comes to Manchester with a star studded cast promising for a spectacular occasion. More details here.

Didsbury Makers Market
27 March
This event is held on the last Sunday of the month and includes food, drink, art and design, plus performances by local musicians and djs.Find out more here.

Dance 88/89

27 March
The summer of love returns for one night only in an evening celebrating the music and culture of acid house and Balearic. Click here for more information.

FutureEverything
30 March – 2 April
Manchester’s annual collaborate arts festival returns with a packed programme of new commissions and world class performances on the theme of less is more. Find out more here.

Spinningfields Makers Market
19 – 20 March
From vintage stalls to inspiring Manchester artists to award winning pies and hot chilli chutneys, the stalls that have been carefully selected from North West Artisan producers will show the very best of local food, drink, vintage, art and modern craft that the region has to offer. Find out more here.

International Women’s Day at IWM North
06 March – 28 March 2016
Visit IWM North for a range of events to mark International Women’s Day 2016, as part of Manchester’s Wonder Women 2016 Festival. Click here for more information.

Live Music

Wolf Alice at Manchester Academy
10 March
For those who missed out on catching the band during their wildly successful previous UK run, it’s a fresh chance to catch the band at Manchester Academy this month. Head to Visit Manchester for more information.

The 1975 at the Manchester O2 Apollo
13 March 2016 – 15 March 2016
The 1975 will play a set of homecoming gigs at the O2 Apollo in support of their second album’I Like It When You Sleep For You Are So Beautiful Yet So Unaware Of It’. Click here for more information.

Little Mix at Manchester Arena
24 March 2016
Little Mix will return to Manchester Arena as part of their 14 date UK tour in spring 2016, performing tracks from their new studio album, Get Weird including their UK number one, Black Magic. Find out more here.

Mariah Carey at Manchester Arena
18 March 2016
Returning to Manchester for the first time since her Charmbracelet Tour back in 2003, the music icon will be drawing on her back catalogue of over 18 number one singles and performing her biggest hits. Click here for more information.

Manchester Camerata – The Mozart Session
12 March 2016
Following on from the concert double bill of Haydn Piano Concertos in 2013, RNCM are delighted to welcome back Jean-Efflam Bavouzet for an all-Mozart programme set to redefine live performances of the great master. Find out more here.

For more information about what’s on in Manchester go to visitmanchester.com

7 Things to do in Greater Manchester this weekend (22-24 January)

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

First TransPennine Express Winter Sale

Make the most of 25% off all First TransPennine Express advance tickets for travel up to and including Sunday 20 March. Be quick, offer ends Sunday 31 January. More information here.

Mary Poppins at the Palace Theatre

Start the weekend in style by seeing the stage adaptation of Mary Poppins live at the Palace Theatre. It’s Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious! Click here for more information.

The Corrs at Manchester Arena

Pop rockers The Corrs return to Manchester this weekend to perform hits new and old at the Manchester Arena. Click here to find out more.

Snow Park Fun at the Chill Factore

Bring the family along to the Snow Park at Chill Factore for a fun-filled day of slides and sledging in the snow. Find out more here.

#MCRCheapEats 

January doesn’t have to be gloomy – take advantage of over 25 fantastic food offers across the city with some of Manchester’s most popular eateries offering up to 50% off. Find out more here.

Thriller Live at Manchester Opera House

With two hours of pop, soul and dance hits, relive the career of music icon Michael Jackson on stage at the Manchester Opera House. Click here for more information.

Manchester Giants vs Sheffield Sharks

Cheer on basketball team the Manchester Giants who are in action this Sunday when they take on the Sheffield Sharks. Click here for more information.

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

7 Things to do in Greater Manchester this weekend (8-10 January)

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

Cheap eats this January in Manchester

With Christmas out of the way, visitors can now take advantage of several fantastic food offers across the city with some popular eateries offering up to 50% off. Find out more here.

The Girls

Created by Mancunian legend Gary Barlow and Tim Firth, The Girls is a brand new musical on show for the first time this weekend. More information here.

Scotsman in Steam preview

The world’s most famous locomotive steam train is back after almost a decade off-duty and visitors can see the return of this iconic vehicle this weekend. Find out more here.

Hozier at Manchester Apollo

Kick off the weekend at Manchester’s O2 Apollo where Hozier will perform chart-topping tracks from his best-selling album. Click here for more information.

The Peak District Exhibition

Don’t miss the opening of this fantastic exhibition featuring photographs and images of one of the most beautiful areas in Britain. More information here.

The Rocky Horror Show at Manchester Opera House

Enjoy a night of fun and frights in a thrilling production of Richard O’Brien’s classic original script at the Manchester Opera House this weekend. Find out more here.

Ramsbottom Farmers Market

Held on the second Sunday of each month, the Ramsbottom Farmers Market is a hub of homemade speciality foods, drink, crafts and other locally made products. Click here to find out more.

Here’s what our Twitter and Facebook followers recommend this weekend:

@naomijane1234: Going to see @HettyLive at @The_Lowry on Sunday afternoon, can’t wai
@mariaKC1963: Into Manc airport from Isle of Man Piccadilly then Salford to @The_Lowry to see @thegirlsmusical
Rachel Unwin: The Rocky Horror Show tonight at The Opera House and taking the kids to the new Skatepark tomorrow Urban Attack. ( formerly Beast Rampz!)
Kathy Ashton: Watching Manchester Storm ice hockey at Altrincham Ice Rink. Come on down, it’s going to be a great night.

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

What’s on in Greater Manchester this December

System One offer a range of daily, weekly, monthly and annual travelcards, offering customers unlimited travel on any bus, train or tram within Greater Manchester using one card.

Discover a whole host of things to do and see in Manchester this Christmas from the UK’s favourite Christmas Markets to outstanding theatre shows the whole family can enjoy. Plan your festive trip to the city here: visitmanchester.com/christmas

Festive favorites

Manchester Christmas Markets
14 November – 22 December 2015
Manchester’s famous Christmas Markets return for the festive season from this weekend. Featuring nearly 350 stalls spanning 10 distinctive market sites; they will transform the city centre in to a festive wonderland. Find out more here.

Manchester Ice Rink
12 November 2015 – 3 January 2016
Perfect for friends, families or couples, the Manchester Ice Rink is a great way to have a laugh and soak up the Christmas atmosphere this December. Click here for more information.

Arts and culture

Carols by Candlelight at Manchester Cathedral
10 December
A warm and wonderful evening at Manchester Cathedral, Carols by Candlelight promises a night of fun and festivity in one of the city’s most beautiful buildings. Find out more here.

Andre Rieu at Manchester Arena
18 December
An energetic programme filled with catchy waltzes, opera tunes and film music is sure to entertain guests at the Manchester Arena this December. Find out more here.

BBC Philharmonic Brahms’s Third Symphony
4 December
Part of the BBC Philharmonic’s American Series, Braham’s Third Symphony was written on the eve of war and contains a powerful insight into two dark musical masterpieces. Find out more here.

Inkheart at HOME
4 December – 9 January
This Christmas, HOME presents Inkheart, adapted from Cornelia Funke’s brilliant, worldwide best-selling fantasy adventure novel for children, a funny, thrilling and action-packed UK premiere for families.Find out more here.

Cinderella at Manchester Opera House
5 December 2015 – 3 January 2016
Cinderella at the Manchester Opera House sees national icons Torville and Dean make their pantomime debut as the Fairy Godparents. Click here to find out more.

Downton: A Wartime Christmas at The Fusilier Museum
27 November – 23 December
Award winning TV series Downton Abbey will display a selection of 10 costumes at Bury’s Fusilier’s Museum for a limited time only. Click here for more information.

Lightwaves at Salford Quays
12 – 27 December
Get lost in a maze of reflections and illuminations at Greater Manchester’s Digital Light Festival. From giant inflatable rabbits to a three-dimensional maze, all of the installations are designed to be interactive. To find out more, click here.

Mumford & Sons at Manchester Arena
6 December
Mumford & Sons will return to Manchester Arena this winter as part of an eleven date UK and Ireland tour.Support for their Manchester show will come from Critics’ Choice Award Winner, Jack Garratt. Find out more here.

Christmas Concerts at Tatton Park
10 – 12 December
Tatton’s festive concerts appeal to a range of musical tastes and are always popular.This year includes the Northern Chamber Orchestra (10 December), A Christmas Carol (11 December), and Roberts Bakery Band (12 December). Find out more here.

Something for the family

Big Family day at HOME
13 December
Keep the family busy this Christmas with the Big Family Day at Home which includes fun films, workshops and a parade for kids of all ages. Click here to find out more.

Horrible Histories: Blitzed Brits at IWM North
11 July 2015 – 10 April 2016
The Second World War changed life in Britain forever, discover how people lived through one of the most challenging period’s in history at this interactive exhibition. Click here to find out more.

Festive Family Starlight Adventure
5 December
Fun and facts merge together in this family friendly show at Jodrell Bank where visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the night sky. Find out more here.

Snowman and the Snowdog
12 December
It’s just not Christmas without a visit from the Snowman and this year, both the Snowman and Snow Dog will be walking in the air on their way to the Spindles Town Square, Oldham. Find out more here.

The Nightmare Before Christmas at The John Rylands Library
19 December
This spookily fun film about Jack Skellington and his journey to ‘Christmas Town’  is part of the library’s ‘Exploring the Gothic’ exhibition and family events programme. Click here for more information.

Visit the Grotto at Manchester Arndale
Until 24 December
Naughty or nice? Whichever list the little ones are on this year, Father Christmas will be at the Manchester Arndale Christmas Grotto until Christmas Eve. Find out more here.

Santa Specials at East Lancashire Railway
Until 24 December
A tradition for many families in the North West, the Santa Specials are sure to create memories which you and your family will share forever. For more information, click here.

Bolton Winter Festival
28 November – 3 January
Bolton’s Winter Festival is back, with a super-sized ice rink, children’s ice rink, magnificent giant tipi tents and the brand new magical Santa’s Grotto and festive artisan markets. Find out more here.

Christmas Blitz 75th Anniversary
Daily throughout December at 3.30pm (except 24, 25, 26)
Mark the 75th anniversary of the Manchester Christmas Blitz in a free tour at IWM North.Find out more here.

Food and drink

GRUB Christmas Food Fair
5 December 2015
A day full of food and fun, enjoy live music alongside tasty treats in this spectacular Christmas fair in Manchester. Click here to find out more.

Corn Exchange Manchester
1 – 31 December 2015
A beautiful Edwardian building in the heart of the city, this wonderful location is now home to many of Manchester’s best restaurants and eateries serving food from all over the world. Find out more here.

Bar Hütte at Spinningfields
12 December 2015 – 3 January 2016
A superb venue for a Christmas celebration, make use of private party rooms, a karaoke machine and three cosy alpine themed hüttes. For more information click here.

Traditional Christmas Afternoon Tea at Cloud 23
Until 31 December
Enjoy delectable items such as chocolate and orange frangipane tarts festive flavoured macaroons and cinnamon and sultana scones with clotted cream and jam above the clouds. Find out more here.

Dive NQ
A brand new multi-faceted bar in the centre of Manchester’s thriving Northern Quarter, Dive offers DJ’s, entertainment and sport, combined with a carefully considered list of cocktails and a selection of bar food. Find out more here.

Travel to Manchester this Christmas

Explore for less this Christmas with FTPE
Getting to Manchester this Christmas is easy with First Transpennine Express. When visitors book in advance, they could save over 50%* on First TransPennine Express train travel. All they need to do is book before 6pm on the day prior to travel and travel on a specific train.
*Terms and conditions apply.

Stress free parking in Manchester

Christmas Shopping with NCP
13 November – 31 December
Shop stress free this Christmas at Manchester’s busiest time of year with NCP parking. For more information click here.

Competitions

Win a family overnight stay in Manchester this Christmas
Be in with a chance of winning a family visit to Manchester this Christmas, including an overnight stay in a top city-centre hotel. For more information, and to enter, click here.

Want to win more? Check out our other competitions here.

For more information about what’s on in Manchester go to visitmanchester.com

 

7 things to do in Greater Manchester this weekend (13 – 15 November 2015)

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

Manchester Christmas Markets

Manchester’s famous Christmas Markets return for the festive season from this weekend. Featuring nearly 350 stalls spanning 10 distinctive market sites; they will transform the city centre in to a festive wonderland. Find out more here.

The Ideal Home Show at Christmas

Back for 2015, The Ideal Home Show at Christmas is returning to EventCity, bringing everything to prepare for the festive season – and including appearances from Gino D’Acampo, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, Katie Piper and Olly Smith. For more information, click here.

Louder than Words Festival of Music and Literature

Now in its third year, the Louder than Words Festival has something for anyone with a love for music, and the way words are used to inform, create and discuss that music. Click here for more information.

Reindeer Parade

This Saturday, Santa will be arriving into Oldham town centre, leading his reindeer around the town on their way to the Spindles Town Square, where he will be opening his brand new grotto. To find out more, click here.

Wythenshawe Hall Open Day

Welcoming visitors of all ages, the open day will let visitors take a step back in time and learn about the local heritage. The Friends of Wythenshawe Hall, dressed in period costume, will be on hand to answer any questions. Find out more here.

The Last Tango at the Manchester Opera House

Fresh from their sell-out hit shows Midnight Tango and Dance ‘Til Dawn, Strictly Come Dancing superstars Vincent Simone & Flavia Cacace have created their most moving production yet. To find out more, click here.

England under 19s v Japan

Come and cheer on the Young Lions who take on Japan in an exciting fixture with two Manchester City players named in the squad.

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

What’s on in Greater Manchester this October

To celebrate Ryan Giggs’ decade spanning time at Manchester United, a dedicated exhibition has opened in his honour at the Manchester United Museum & Tour, Old Trafford, titled: Ryan Giggs: The man for all seasons.

Sporting extravaganza around the region

Sale Sharks vs Worcester Warriors
23 October
With the new season under way Sale Sharks welcome Worcester Warriors in their first Aviva Premiership home game at the AJ Bell Stadium on October 23rd with a number of superb corporate hospitality packages and stand tickets available for what should be a fiercely contested fixture. To book match tickets from just £15 (Adult) and £7 (junior) call 0161 667 7510 or email Lisa.Gale@salesharks.com.

Manchester Rugby World Cup Fanzone 2015
9 – 11 October
Albert Square will host Manchester’s Rugby World Cup 2015 fanzone, which will be the ideal place to watch all the action with big screens showing select games.

World Taekwondo GP 2015
16 – 18 October
A host of Olympic, World and European champions including Olympic medallists Jade Jones and Lutalo Muhammad will be competing at the Regional Arena, Etihad Campus.

Pitch to Pixel
23 October 2015 – June 2016
The National Football Museum’s new exhibition gives visitors a chance to enjoy a playable history of football gaming. Free admission.

Performances

BBC Philharmonic Orchestra – Bernstein’s Final Concert
9 October
A tribute to Leonard Bernstein’s final concert, see the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra perform some of the most life-enhancing music ever created.

1984 in Ballet
14-17 October
Based on the classic novel by George Orwell, this masterpiece of dance recreates an iconic story with an imaginative twist perfectly suited to modern audiences.

Hot Chip at Manchester Albert Hall
17 October
Music lovers must not miss out on the chance to see Hot Chip this October. The group who changed the face of electronic music will perform live in Manchester’s Albert Hall.

Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular at Manchester Opera House
2 October
Dance your socks off vintage Vegas style this October when Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular takes to the stage at Manchester Opera House. Expect lots of singalong songs and plenty of dancing.

Kid Ink at Manchester Apollo
20 October
Musician Kid Ink will perform in Manchester this October, performing tracks from the new album Full Speed in the UK for the first time.

Chetham’s Symphony Orchestra: RNCM
22 October
The Chetham’s Symphony Orchestra welcomes back renowned American maestro Franz Anton Krager in a concert marking the 150-year anniversary of the birth of composer Jean Sibelius.

Comedy Night at Manchester Jewish Museum
15 October
After performing in venues across the world, Sol Bernstein brings his unique style of comedy to the Manchester Jewish Museum this October.

Food and drink

Manchester Oktoberfest
21 – 25 October
Manchester’s very own Oktoberfest – with German beer, food and entertainment in a tent with space for 2,000 people in Albert Square.

Spinningfields Maker’s Market
17 – 18 October
The Spinningfields Markets showcase award-winning food, drink, art and crafts producers which are accompanied by live music, performances, cookery demonstrations and activities for children.

Arts and culture

Manchester Literature Festival
12 – 25 October
Held in venues across the city, Manchester Literature Festival will host an amazing line-up of internationally renowned authors, exclusive performances of specially commissioned work, bespoke walking tours and topical discussions.

A Celebration of Manchester’s Secret Spaces
1 – 4 October
A set of guided tours and walks as part of the Manchester Curious Festival of architecture, designed to appeal to a wider audience, making the concept of architecture accessible to all.

Turn over a new leaf at intu Trafford Centre
12 – 18 October
An exhibition of fashion, intu Trafford Centre allows guests to reinvent their style as well as discover key autumn trends at Manchester’s ultimate style event this October.

ExtraORDINARY at The Lowry
Until 18 October
This exhibition at The Lowry will celebrate ‘art in the everyday’ through the work of international artists. By working with everyday objects and the human body, artists are offering viewers accessible and identifiable ways to engage with contemporary practice.

The Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair
9 – 11 October
The Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair will showcase 175 designer-makers selling beautiful and unique contemporary crafts. Join maker demonstrations, workshops, curator-led talks and much more.

Family fun

Day Out With Thomas at East Lancashire Railway
3 – 4 October
This fun-filled day will include rides on Thomas the Tank Engine, meeting Sir Topham Hat, and a host of exciting Thomas-themed activities.

For more information about what’s on in Manchester go to www.visitmanchester.com

What’s on in Greater Manchester this August

To celebrate Ryan Giggs’ decade spanning time at Manchester United, a dedicated exhibition has opened in his honour at the Manchester United Museum & Tour, Old Trafford, titled: Ryan Giggs: The man for all seasons.

Something for the family

Day out with Thomas at the East Lancashire Railway
1 – 2 August
Choo, choo, all aboard!
For a fun filled family day out visit the East Lancashire Railway to meet Thomas the Tank Engine and friends. Book your tickets here.

Dig the City
31 July – 6 August
See Manchester bloom to life with the arrival of the city’s summer garden festival. With plenty of events taking place throughout the week there is something for everyone, from children’s events to pop up picnics.

Save 20% at Knowsley Safari Park
Offer ends 4 September
Treat the family to a wild day out this summer and visit Knowsley Safari Park. Book online now and save 20%, making an adults ticket cost just £13.20 and a child’s ticket £10.

Take a trip to the beach at intu Trafford Centre
18 July – 31 August
Visit the seaside this summer in Greater Manchester and embrace the holiday mood with plenty of activities to take part in at the beach.

Stay in Manchester for less this summer at the Ramada Salford Quays Hotel
Get 20% off Best Available Rate throughout August 2015 quoting Summer Special.  Book direct on 0161 876 5305 www.ramadasalfordquays.com

Food frenzy

Spinningfields Makers Market and Finders Keepers Market
15- 16 August
With over 130 stalls, the market showcases award-winning local food, drink, art and craft producers, as well as vintage clothing, plus much more. The soundtrack to the market is provided by local live bands and DJs.

Waterside Food and Craft Market at Lowry Outlet
15 – 16 August
The open-air market will host around 30 stalls; transforming the centre’s outdoor space into a bustling market place filled full of local artisan produce . If your visiting with children, then there’s lots on offer to keep the little ones entertained. To celebrate the launch of the new Disney film “Inside Out” children will have the chance to feature in their own Disney film poster.

Bolton Food and Drink Festival
28 – 31 August
Visit one of the North West’s best food and drink festivals and head to Bolton over the August bank holiday weekend. Sharpen up your culinary skills and watch celebrity chef demos, a fantastic artisan food and drink market and a dedicated children’s marquee, plus much more.

Performances

West Side Story
13 – 15 August
Have a summers evening out see one of the all time greatest musicals, West Side Story at the Palace Theatre Manchester. Please note that this is a youth theatre production. For tickets book here.

Priscilla Queen of the Desert
20 – 29 August
Priscilla is the heartwarming, uplifting adventure of three friends who hop aboard a battered old bus searching for love and friendship. To book tickets click here.

In the spotlight

Trof Northern Quarter

A dandyish den of opulence. The kind of place where you can hang out day or night, access the wifi with a big slice of cake and a frothy coffee, munch on breakfasts and burgers, sandwiches and salads and/or sample the extensive and exquisite beer menu, sophisticated selection of spirits and wines to make you go woozy.

For more information visit trofnq.co.uk

3 things to do this weekend in Manchester (20 – 22 December, 2013)

Everyday Relics at MOSI

Well folks it’s the last weekend before Christmas and if you are all shopped, wrapped and ready to roll Manchester has plenty to keep you entertained until the big guy shows up next week. Here’s our top 3 ideas for what to get up to this weekend plus some bonus suggestions from our social media pals.

• Not feeling very festive yet? A surefire way to fix that is a trip to the pantomime, so head to Manchester Opera House to see the rags to riches tale of Dick Whittington. Packed with slapstick humour, it features stars of stage and screen including Britain’s Got Talent favourites Ashleigh and Pudsey, West End and television star Jodie Prenger and Ben Faulks (Mr Bloom) from CBeebies.

• From tomorrow until Monday Greengate Square – Salford’s newest public space – hosts the Greengate Christmas Family Market. Close to Manchester city centre and the beautiful Manchester Cathedral, the square will be brimming with festive street performers, warming winter food and festive treats. Children will also have a chance to meet Santa and get in any last minute requests.

• Want to escape the cold weather? Head indoors at MOSI (Museum of Science & Industry) to explore the Everyday Relics Exhibition where you can see hand picked objects from MOSI’s fascinating handling collection brought to life through projection and audio. Each of the objects tells an important story about Manchester’s role in the Industrial Revolution, as a modern city and about the lives of its people. Items on display include a Boddingtons Beer pump handle, an electric mantle clock and Human Nature on 7” record.

Here’s what our Twitter followers suggest:

• @angieokchan: Visitors to Manchester should visit our fabulous Christmas Markets before they finish on Sunday! @MCRMarkets #MCRChristmas
• ‏@racquelparsnip: Come and see @MancShowChoir it’ll be FAB! http://www.victoriawarehouse.com/blog/music/a-chorus-by-candlelight-.aspx
• ‏@VisitSalford: Got to be the Christmas Family Market @GreengateSquare with a very special #ElfOff on Sat 21 Dec http://ow.ly/rWAc2
• ‏@Nellyjuke: Wander round @NQManchester lots of opportunities to stop & eat or soak up the madness that is Christmas markets
• ‏@HarrisonPhair: John Rylands Library @TheJohnRylands
• ‏‏@allfmboc: Shop local & support small traders @levymarket today – go to Chorlton Green tomorrow for @HorseJockey solstice party
• ‏@JarrodBurney: Gabbotts farm in stretford arndale for some chicken.
• ‏@TrulyMadly7: Tubing at Chill Factore, great fun!

And here’s what our Facebook friends suggest:

• Rachel Saunders: The Craft Centre is open all weekend, a nice little haven away from market street and an historic building too.
• Lady-Katie Mallalieu: Cocktails at The Alchemist
• Rachel Kimberley: Watch the sunset on the 12th floor at Manchester House whilst sipping a cocktail!
• Z-arts: Last weekend of Duck! here at Z-arts. We’ve had great reviews from critics and audiences and with tickets at £7/£5 it’s easily the best value for money Christmas show in Manchester. http://www.z-arts.org/duck/
• Joe Hickman Spinningfields and the Oast House
• Debbie Royle: I would recommend Mulligans of Deansgate great food live music brilliant atmosphere 
• Lizzie Carter: Christmas Carols with the The Hallé at The Bridgewater Hall this Saturday, Sunday and Monday!
• Matthew Ruth: Levenshulme Christmas market tonight is gonna be totes amaze balls
• Charlotte Hughes: Ordsall hall is the best place to go in Manchester. The staff are very friendly knowledgeable and it’s very child friendly and free
• Mcdc Manchester Craft: Last minute shopping at the award winning manchester craft and design centre – buy handmade!

What’s on in Manchester – September

The ‘What’s on in Manchester’ blog will give you a heads up for selected highlights of where to be and what to see in Manchester for the coming month – published every month on behalf of Visit Manchester.

Exhibitions

Hard Rock Couture // 30 August – 8 September 2013 @ The Printworks, Withy Grove
This exhibition presents some of the wild, wonderful and historic clothing from the Hard Rock collection including Madonna’s iconic gold corset created by fashion guru Jean Paul Gaultier, a feathered Dior jacket worn both on and off stage by The Killers front man Brandon Flowers, a prison jacket worn by Elvis Presley in the film Jailhouse Rock and the red leather jacket worn by Michael Jackson in his infamous “Beat It” video.

Double Indemnity // 14 September 2013 until 1 January 2014 @ Cornerhouse, Oxford Road
The exhibition will inter-weave images and text from Billy Wilder’s classic film with a selection of photography, video, painting and installation artworks, which expose and subvert the distance between those who desire and are desired.

Independent Interiors Show // 28 September 2013 @ 2022nq, Northern Quarter
A one day shopping event for interiors enthusiasts, the event will showcase the best homeware brands and emerging interior designers in the North of England, from lighting to furniture, ceramics, textiles and wall coverings.

Music

Jetplane Landing // 4 September 2013 @ Soup Kitchen, Northern Quarter
Art-rock, post-hardcore from Derry, Northern Ireland. Currently promoting latest album, “Don’t Try”.

Rahat Fateh Ali Khan // 12 September 2013 @ Phones4u Arena, Manchester
Rahat Fateh Ali Khan returns to Manchester this autumn as part of his The Voice From Heaven UK tour.

Police Dog Hogan // 20 September 2013 @ Band on the Wall, Swan Street
Police Dog Hogan are a high-energy and eclectic seven-piece, combining fiddle, banjo, mandolin, drums and guitars with knockout four-part harmonies in an exuberant fusing of country, pop, folk, and rocking urban bluegrass. The Sunday Times has described them as “wonderful”; the Telegraph named them one of its ‘favourite new bands”; Radio 2 called them “a band to watch” and veteran DJ Johnnie Walker praises their gigs as “just a really good, fun time”.

Kathryn Williams // 10 September 2013 @ Band on the Wall, Swan Street
Kathryn Since her 2002 Mercury Music Prize nomination, Kathryn Williams has gone from strength to strength, releasing a string of acclaimed albums that have confirmed her as an extraordinary talent within the singer/songwriter genre.

Performance

An Evening of Burlesque // 20 September 2013 @ Manchester Opera House, M3 3HP
It’s all tease, no sleaze as corsets, killer heels, stockings aplenty, sultry vocals, mischief, magic, frivolity and fun collide. Showcasing award winning talent from across the country this is your chance to see some of the Burlesque world’s favourite stars in the flesh.

That Is All You Need To Know // Until 4 December 2013 @ The Lowry, The Quays
That Is All You Need To Know marks the start of The Lowry’s ‘Accelerate’ programme, an exciting new relationship between the venue and The Jerwood Foundation. This initiative builds upon the success of The Lowry’s award-winning ‘Developed With The Lowry’ programme to further support emerging to mid-career theatre companies.

The Moscow State Circus // 18 – 22 September 2013 @ Tatton Park, Knutsford
Superstar Clowns Splendid Pavlik & Klava invite the audience to this wondrous and mysterious place, a place to romance, a place to stroll & take in Moscow at sunset & a place to see magnificent feats of human achievement, in many case’s, non of the like have ever been witnessed in Great Britain before.

Night of Adventure // 30 September 2013 @ Vue Cinema, The Lowry
More than 400 guests will be treated to 12 talks from some of the finest adventurers on the face of the planet during the ‘Night of Adventure’ event at Vue Cinema in Manchester’s Lowry Centre on Monday 30 September 2013.

Festivals

Manchester Food and Drink Festival // 26 September – 7 October @ Various/City Centre
The region’s most hotly anticipated food and drink event is back. This urban festival takes over much of Manchester City Centre and the surrounding districts of Greater Manchester, with a huge programme of events taking place, both indoor and outdoor.

Buy Art Fair & The Manchester Contemporary // 26 – 29 September 2013 @ Spinningfields, M3 3ER
Buy Art Fair is located in a large pavilion situated along Hardman Boulevard, in the thriving hub of Spinningfields. A few steps away in Quay House, The Manchester Contemporary will take up residence for the weekend-long event.

Ramsbottom Festival // 13 – 15 September 2013 @ Ramsbottom Cricket Club
Ramsbottom Cricket Club will once again host the annual Ramsbottom Festival, bringing a selection of talented musicians to a stunning riverside location. Along with the music there will be a host of festival activity including comedy, real ale tent, great food, workshops, funfair and silent disco.

Homemade Heaven & Vintage Style Fair // 21 September 2013
The town has some great historic buildings, which include the Gaskell Tower, the Old Town Hall, the Sessions Court House and The Civic Centre, where ‘ilovehomemadeheaven’ hold their Homemade Heaven & Vintage Fairs

Out of Town

Creative Stitches & Hobbycraft // 12 – 14 September 2013 @ EventCity, Barton Dock Road, Urmston
Calling all craft enthusiasts! Make sure you go along to the Creative Stitches & Hobbycrafts show this September to discover all the latest craft inspiration, supplies and innovations from more than 80 exhibitors.

Wigan Diggers Festival // 7 September 2013 @ The Wiend, Wigan Town Centre
Also known as the ‘True Levellers’, the Diggers were one of the first truly egalitarian political movements of the poor and propertyless anywhere in the World, and the first to argue for full equality of men and women. Winstanley and they famously asserted: “The World was made a common treasury for all!”

Sports

National Taekwondo Championships 2013 // 7 – 8 September 2013 @ National Cycling Centre
The 2013 British Taekwondo National Championships will take place over the weekend of 7th and 8th September 2013 at the Manchester Velodrome in Sportcity, East Manchester. After a record breaking number of entries in the 2012 National Championships, the focus for all British Taekwondo players is now very firmly set towards the Rio Olympics in 2016.

NatWest One-Day International – England vs Australia at Emirates Old Trafford // 8 September 2013 @ Emirates Old Trafford
England entertain Australia in the 2nd NatWest One-Day International at Emirates Old Trafford, home of Lancashire County Cricket Club.

What’s on in Manchester – July

The ‘What’s on in Manchester’ blog will give you a heads up for selected highlights of where to be and what to see in Manchester for the coming month – published every month on behalf of Visit Manchester.

Exhibitions

Mortality: Death and the Imagination // 8 July – 18 August @ The Holden Gallery
Rather than using death as a blunt end-point, this exhibition turns its attention to mortality and the ways in which death appears (or is obscured) through being in the midst of life.

Brains: The Mind as Matter // From 26 July @ MOSI
Featuring a range of objects, audio-visual installations and beautiful artworks, this fascinating exhibition explores what humans have done to brains in the cause of medical intervention, scientific enquiry, cultural meaning and technological change.

Horrible Histories // From present until 31 December 2012 @ Imperial War Museum (IWM) North
Daily at 11am with an extra showing at 2pm during weekends and school holidays, meet Rattus Rattus as he takes you on a journey back to the woeful Second World War, where you can discover foul food, dig for victory, and make do and mend. 

Music

The Smashing Pumpkins // 1 July @ Manchester Academy
The Smashing Pumpkins will be performing at Manchester’s Academy One venue on 1 July 2013. The performance will start at 19:00. The Smashing Pumpkins have created one of the most acclaimed bodies of work in musical history and sold over 30 million albums.

Rihanna // 15 and 16 July @ Manchester Arena
Following her four sold-out Manchester Arena dates in winter 2011, the international R’n’B star returns to showcase tracks from her latest album Diamonds, alongside the chart-topping hits Umbrella, Don’t Stop The Music, Only Girl (In The World), SOS, Disturbia and Shut Up And Drive.

Devendra Banhart // 17 July @ The Ritz
Banhart first attracted international notice with his 2002 debut album, Oh Me Oh My… The Way the Day Goes By the Sun Is Setting Dogs Are Dreaming Lovesongs of the Christmas Spirit – a collection of recordings he had made for himself.

BUFF // 12 – 14 July @ TribeCa, Saville Street
BUFF is a weekend aimed at the trans masculine community. They aim to bring trans masculine identified people and S.O.F.F.A’s together through various events such as club nights, lunches and other gatherings.

Picnic Concert: The Human League with special guests // 20 July @ Tatton Park
The Human League and special guests for an astounding evening of much loved electro classics in the stunning surroundings of Tatton Park. The concert will conclude with an amazing fireworks display.

Picnic Concert: Katherine Jenkins // 21 July @ Tatton Park
Katherine will be performing a selection of much-loved Last Night classics such as Rule Britannia, Jerusalem and Land of Hope and Glory. In addition, the concert will feature some of her favourite pieces including Les Filles de Cadiz, Someone To Watch Over Me and I Could Have Danced All Night. This fantastic finale to the weekend comes complete with the National Symphony Orchestra conducted by Anthony Inglis and culminate with a stunning fireworks display.

Performance

Too Clever By Half // 10 – 17 August @ Royal Exchange
Too Clever By Half is a biting satire about Gloumov, a young scoundrel who is out to climb to the top of bourgeois society, regardless of what it takes to rise through the ranks and who he steps on to get there.

Momentous Musicals // 25 July @ The Palace Theatre
With an accompanying cast of the highest West End calibre, this year’s show will feature brand new arrangements of classic and recent musical theatre songs including Let Me Be Your Star from Smash, What I Did For Love (A Chorus Line) and One Day More (Les Misérables).

My Generation: The Glory Years of British Rock // Present until 15 September @ The Lowry
As Top of the Pop’s resident photographer from 1964 – 1973, Harry Goodwin documented some of the most important musical stars and performances of this crucial time in rock history.

Ghost // 2 – 20 July @ Manchester Opera House
Sam is trapped as a ghost between this world and the next trying to communicate with girlfriend Molly through a phoney psychic in the hope of saving her from his murderer.

Festivals

RHS Flower Show // 25 – 28 July @ Tatton Park
Set in the height of the summer in the grounds of one of Britain’s most historic estates, the RHS Flower Show at Tatton Park is a stunning blend of inspirational gardening with all the magnificence and grandeur of a garden party.

Greater Manchester Fringe Festival // 1 – 31 July @ Various
Greater Manchester Fringe Festival is back in July 2013 and buzzing with new venues and new shows – sponsored by Manchester City Council and Outstanding Beers of Bury. For 31 days The Briton’s Protection, Fab Cafe Kings Arms, Kraak, Lass O’Gowrie, O’Shea’s Irish Bar, The Salford Arms, Satan’s Hollow, Taurus, Tiger Lounge, Retro Bar and TV21 will be hosting live drama, music, comedy and other events.

24:7 Theatre Festival // 19 – 26 July 2013 @ Various
11 premieres, eight days, featuring fire stations, period dramas and made-up monsters. 24:7 is a unique theatre festival that brings innovative drama to the people of Manchester and nurtures the writing, directing, performing and producing talent of tomorrow. In 2004, the first Festival took place in bars and clubs around Manchester city centre. With no finance but bags of determination, we managed to attract 1,600 audience members in one week.

Out Of Town

The Magic of Beatrix Potter // Present until 1 September @ Tatton Park
Tatton Park celebrates Beatrix Potter this summer with an enchanting exhibition of family events and activities. Look out for characters and scenes from her stories and follow trails in the mansion, farm and gardens. Find out about her life and legacy of countryside conservations. Enjoy rare opportunities to see an exhibition of Beatrix Potter’s original water colours and drawings, on loan from the National Trust collection.

Worn To Be Wild // Present until 13 July @ Gallery Oldham
This unusual combination was created by dress designer and textile artist Kate Plumtree. From a medieval deer to a contemporary hedgehog, each costume has been carefully designed and constructed by observing the movement, behaviour and habitat of each animal. Other stunning creations include an elegant 18th Century Mute Swan, a dramatic 1930s Golden Eagle and a sultry Victorian Fox.

Bird Song // 1 – 6 July @ Oldham Coliseum
A mesmerising story of love, courage and sacrifice brought to the stage in this critically acclaimed version of Sebastian Faulks’s bestselling novel, an epic tale of love and war set both before and during the Great War.

Bugs at Chester Zoo // Until 3 November 2013 @ Chester Zoo
Mind-bogglingly big Bugs are in residence at Chester Zoo this summer. The amazing exhibition of robotic giants includes stupendous scorpions, extra-large ladybirds and spiders that are anything but incy-wincy.

Sports

Greater Manchester Swim // 20 July @ City Centre
Swimmers and spectators can enjoy live music, try amazing street food and browse retail outlets. This is a wet-suit only event. No walls, No lanes, No Chlorine. Just the great outdoors!

Top Tours

Wandering Duck’s Through the Middle: The City Tour

Wandering Duck is offering a great 1 night unique insight into the Manchester city centre canal as well as escaping to the picturesque surroundings of Worsley. Tours take place at various times throughout the season through until October.

South Cemetery Tour
Whilst the graves of those famous for music, football, cotton, philanthropy, flight, the Ship Canal, painting, politics, and property. Meet at the gates of Southern Cemetery. Price is £7/6. Tour starts at 10:30 – booking essential.

New Openings

Sea Life Manchester now open at intu Trafford Centre // Now @ intu Trafford Centre
The newly opened Sea Life Manchester will transport you into the amazing underwater world. Come nose to nose with sharks, and prepare for astonishingly close views of everything from humble starfish and seahorses to graceful rays. To get any closer you’d have to get wet!

Rekorderlig Summer Garden // Until 1 September 2013 @ Great Northern Square, Deansgate
Perhaps more of a ‘temporary opening’ than a ‘new opening’, the Rekorderlig Summer Garden is open throughout the season in the prime Great Northern Square spot – where Rekorderlig, Swedish lager brand Abro and Manchester favourites The Liquorists have come together to provide an array of refreshing beverages to serve throughout the summer months.