Happy New Year…
Between the post-Christmas comedown and the failed New Year’s resolutions, January can be a pretty depressing month. But whether you’re going dry or staying firmly off the wagon, there’s plenty going on in Manchester this month to help beat those January blues.
1. Visit the epic ‘Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience’
The best-selling ‘Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience’ is set to come to an end this month, but before it does, fans of the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts franchises have the chance to uncover mysterious creatures throughout the illuminated trail, as well as a number of fun and interactive nods to the films. The trail ends in a cosy winter village that mildly resembles Hogsmeade, where budding witches and wizards can fill up on seasonal grub and sweet treats. Get tickets here.
2. Hibernate at home with just you, leftover Christmas chocolate and Netflix
Skint after Christmas? We feel ya. Luckily for us, Netflix is providing the goods this month to accompany our January hibernation, including the final season of Ozark, the Kristen Bell and Will Ferrell produced The Woman in the House Across the Street from the Girl in the Window and the final series of Ricky Gervais’ After Life. Find out more here.
3. Enjoy some of the best soul classics by candlelight
From and The Supremes and Marvin Gaye to Four Tops and The Temptations, Fever’s best-selling Candlelight series is set to honour some of the biggest names in soul, under the roof of one of Manchester’s finest venues bathed in candlelight. Taking to the stage for three dates in January, February and April, The Untold Orchestra will be performing some of the biggest Motown hits of all time, elevated by the romantic atmosphere of the flickering candles. Get tickets here.
4. Kick off the year in style with the Go Gaga Bottomless Brunch
The uber-fun Go Gaga Bottomless Brunch is back for 2022, bringing very good vibes to an otherwise dreary January. Serving four hours of Gaga realness, fans will get to enjoy plenty of action throughout the brunch event, including performances from world-class Gaga impersonator, Donna Marie, alongside hilarious drag performances from Miss Blair and guests. This month’s show takes place at the stunning Impossible bar, with burgers, prosecco and mimosas on offer. Get tickets here.
5. Get stuck into some proper good vegan grub (that even meat-eaters will love!)
In the spirit of Veganuary, we’re trading our love for the carnivorous diet for something a little more eco-friendly: veganism. Proving the plant-based diet is so much more than all things green and healthy, Manchester’s vast array of vegan restaurants are serving up some seriously tasty dishes – from Neapolitan pizzas to saucy, juicy burgers that rival even those made of beef. Trust us. Here’s our guide to the very best vegan spots.
6. Break Dry January with this unique prison cocktail experience
Not one for a January challenge? Spice up this month’s night out with Alcotraz’s unique drinking experience – which leads guests into incarceration at Cell Block Three-Four. Smuggle in your own booze while avoiding the watchful eye of the guard and enjoy contraband cocktails in your very own private cell. Orange jumpsuits included. Book your place here.
7. Enjoy a stunning tribute to Aretha Franklin and Nina Simone by candlelight
Jazz more your bag? Celebrate the legends that are Nina Simone and Aretha Franklin at this month’s Candlelight Jazz event – which will take place under the illuminated roof of Manchester Cathedral. Enjoy the classic hits in a whole new light, accompanied by stunning surroundings bathed in candlelight. Tickets are available here.
8. Let out the January Blues with a bit of axe throwing
Feeling a bit of pent-up frustration after the tiring festive season? Whistle Punks is one of the most unique experiences Manchester has to offer, allowing guests to try out a bit of axe throwing in a safe environment. Whether it’s with your other half or a day out with mates, guests can enjoy 70 minutes of throwing, with high stakes as Whistles Punks searches for its axe-throwing King or Queen. Book it here.
9. Retreat to some of Manchester’s best coffee shops
It’s cold, wet, gloomy and quite frankly, coffee shop weather. After all, what better way to warm up than with a tasty, hot beverage? Check out our picks of the cosiest coffee shops here.
10. Boogie on down at The Blues Kitchen
Taking place every single week, Mancs can boogie on down to the very best jazz, soul and funk at The Blues Kitchen – a stunning venue inspired by a 1920’s New Orleans. Hosting multiple events throughout January, guests are invited to drink, dance and devour delicious BBQ-style grub, alongside a hefty cocktail list packed full of twisted classics. Book a show here.
11. Try out a new fitness class
Whether you’re a complete novice, or simply wanting to get back to the gym, January is never an easy time to restart your health and fitness regime. But that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. From fun ballet-style classes to boxing, here’s our guide to some of the best fitness classes in town.
12. Singalong to ABBA by candlelight
Dancing Queens, get ready, because one of the most legendary bands of the past fifty years is set to be honoured with a very special concert. Taking place at the stunning Monastery, guests will get to enjoy ABBA hits, reimagined, all within a stunning space made even prettier with the help of candlelight. Get tickets here.
13. Escape the real world for a while at the cinema
The cinema is officially back in action, and there are tons of things to see on the big screen right now. Whether it’s Spider-Man: No Way Home, The Matrix: Resurrections, or House of Gucci that floats your boat, Fever’s £4.99 Vue E-codes mean you can enjoy it on the cheap this month. Get yours here.
14. Try the best pizza in the world
L’antica Pizzeria Da Michele has finally arrived in Manchester, meaning Mancs can finally taste what’s often referred to as the ‘best pizza in the world’. Made famous in Eat, Pray, Love – the film where Julia Roberts had a ‘relationship’ with her pizza. Enjoy proper Neapolitan-style pizzas, alongside other iconic Italian dishes. Find out more here.
15. Take your dog on a date
Worn out from all the Christmas socialising? Treat your dog to a date instead. With tons of lovely dog-friendly bars, restaurants and cafes dotted around the city, you won’t be short of places to visit, with some even serving up dishes especially for your pooch! Check out our guide to the best dog-friendly spots here.
Also published on Medium.