Known for its architectural beauty and eerie interiors, Victoria Baths in Manchester has expanded in the past few years to host events such as vintage clothing markets, 360 club events and cinema experiences. But now Victoria Baths is embarking on its biggest venture yet, hailing in the spring season with the first ever SpringFest!
Transforming the famous pool halls at Victoria Baths into a cultural hub celebrating art and music from across Greater Manchester and beyond, SpringFest will bring together local artists and musicians, as well as some of the best street food around, making it a proper day out for all the family.
All proceeds help to support the work of Victoria Baths Trust, which oversees the upkeep of the Grade II listed building and ensures that it remains open as a cultural venue and community resource.
Art will include exhibitions from Manchester artists Rachael Field and Nick Telfer from Pool Arts Studio, joined by award-winning illustrator Sarah Thorley, contemporary printmaker Paulette Bansal and artist Lorna Bent.
The music during the day will be just as vibrant as the art, with entertainment from Tungusku, Sens Sagna and the Kajamor Family, Chorlton Ukelele Group, Seamus Og & Friends and Klezmorim of Manchester.
Street food will be provided by Urban Crust Sourdough Pizza and Dim Sum Su, ensuring that the most delicious pizza, bao buns and dim sum will be readily available, with ice-cream and freshly made crepes from Exclusive Scoops. The Victoria Baths Bar will also be open throughout for a wide range of alcoholic and soft drinks, plus delicious baked goods and hot drinks will be available from the volunteer led Victoria Baths Tearoom.
With spring in the air, visitors are encouraged to cycle to the day event for a free thank you brew – just show a picture of you and your parked bike on entry – what an incentive!
There’s also the opportunity to take the music into your own hands with Make, Do and Disco from family fun experts Our Kids Social. Jumping into the (empty) Gala Pool with their Under the Sea themed pool party means no cozzies are required, but fancy dress, shimmering party clothes and dancing shoes are definitely encouraged!
There’s lots to keep the little ones amused as part of Make Do & Disco (1pm – 2.30pm), including art activities and silent disco headsets for ages 4+, while parents take the chance to catch up with family and friends. The free Victoria Baths activity station and kids play area opens from 11am so the action can start straight away!
What’s more, the Baths are open as usual for guided tours and the chance to wander around at your leisure to get closer to the history and heritage of the building. There are two tours to choose from: Discover Victoria Baths running at 12noon, 1.30pm and 2.30pm and Off Limits Tour (recommended for Peaky Blinders fans!) running at 2pm.
SpringFest 2023 will take place on Saturday 15th April 11am-4pm and ticket prices are as follows:
- SpringFest: £7 (with voluntary donation) or £6 (no donation) and can be booked here (Friends of VB and U16s are Free).
- Building tours: £8 per person (free for VB Friends and U16s) and bookable here.
- Our Kids Social: tickets include entry to SpringFest by day and are priced at £6.50 (plus booking fee) and can by booked here.