Struggling to plan a fun-filled weekend in Manchester? Come rain or shine (in this city’s case, mainly rain), we’ve got you covered when it comes to what’s on this weekend in Manchester. From brunches to gigs, there’s something for everyone, including some activities for the kids, on our list of things to do in Manchester this weekend.
Celebrate Lunar New Year at this vibrant Manchester market with more than 100 stalls
If you fancy soaking up some festive atmosphere, the Lunar New Year Market is returning to Manchester this weekend, featuring over 100 vendors and a variety of cultural festivities, delicious food, and vibrant performances. Celebrating the Year of the Horse, visitors can enjoy live music, traditional and contemporary performances, as well as an extensive selection of authentic dishes and handmade goods to celebrate the diversity of Asian cultures.
Watch all the Six Nations action unfold on the big screen
The Six Nations is officially back, and luckily for us Mancs there are plenty of places to watch it with mates, from food hubs to sports bars. Pull up a seat in front of the big screen, order a beer and relax with our guide to where to watch the Six Nations this year in Manchester. On Saturday 14th February, Ireland will take on Italy at 2.10pm and England will play against Scotland at 4.40pm. Plus, on Sunday 15th February, Wales will take on France at 3.10pm.
Embrace your inner child at this unique interactive bubble exhibition
Following successful stints in North America, Milan, and even London, the bountiful interactive installation Bubble Planet is coming to Manchester. The installation is filled with – you guessed it – bubbles, created using a plethora of techniques. In this dedicated bubble museum, not only will you encounter regular bubbles, but the experience features VR technology, interactive elements, and mirrored effects to create something incredibly innovative.
Try pickle-inspired pizzas and margaritas at Nell’s
Nell’s Pizza has launched a pickle-inspired pizza – think garlic cream and mustard sauce on their famous NY crisp 22in bases, a blanket of shredded mozzarella and smoked Lancashire, red onions, crispy onions, tiny perfect chives and pickles. Loads of pickles. Available now for a limited time across all Nell’s spots in Manchester and Salford, the pickle pizza is joined by Picklebacks, Ticklebacks, Pickle Margs and Stiff Tea’s Hard Pickle Kombucha.
Admire Manchester Photography Collective’s latest free exhibition
The Manchester Photography Collective (MPC) is marking its second birthday with Where We Move Together, a free photography exhibition open to the public from Friday 6th February at Marriott Victoria and Albert Manchester. The exhibition explores movement in all its forms – physical, emotional and collective – across Manchester. The selected works capture everyday life in the city, highlighting the people, places and moments that give Manchester its distinct character.
Browse independent stalls at Campfield’s weekly artisan market returns
Since the iconic Campfield Market Hall in Castlefield was reopened last year, it has really been making its mark in the city as it did in its Victorian heyday. Now, Manchester street food icons GRUB and Campfield have brought back their weekly market, making it Manchester’s first European-style food hall experience. Every Saturday from 10am–4pm, the historic Campfield campus in Manchester’s St. John’s neighbourhood will transform into a vibrant city market, celebrating the best of independent retail, food and drink across all three Campfield buildings.
Witness the much-loved, annual dragon parade
The Lunar New Year festivities, which include the annual (and legendary) dragon parade, are making a return to Manchester this weekend. Back for another year, a traditional Dragon Parade will take place on Sunday 15th February and will take place from 10am to 3pm. The famous 175ft dragon will make its way through the city’s streets towards Chinatown, accompanied by a parade featuring live drumming, dancers and acrobatic performances.
Be mesmerised by this immersive and magical concert experience at Manchester Cathedral
Luminiscence, an enchanting 360° projection-mapped experience that fuses sound, light, and magic, arrives in Manchester this week. Taking place at Manchester Cathedral, visitors can rediscover the century-old architectural masterpiece as it turns into a vast, glowing canvas of light and storytelling. Using advanced 3D modelling and projection technology, every architectural detail is recreated with remarkable precision. The event tells a magnificent story narrated by Christopher Eccleston and is accompanied by an incredible live choir to create a goosebump-inducing experience.
Visit The Curling Club as it slides into Manchester with plenty of après ski vibes
The Curling Club has arrived in Manchester, marking the city’s first dedicated curling venue. Located at New Jackson, it promises high-energy curling, festive vibes, and delicious food amidst the city’s iconic skyline. With state-of-the-art lanes and guidance from expert coaches, it’s perfect for group outings and celebrations. Olympic champion Eve Muirhead will also host special events, adding to the excitement. Get ready to slide into winter!
Tuck into a pie for a tenner as The Black Friar’s pie festival returns
The Black Friar in Salford has brought back its popular festival dedicated to the magnificent pie for two months (and the coldest ones of the year too) so soothing and tasty that it might just convince you to put your shoes on, grab your coat and head out for some proper pub grub. The Salford pub and restaurant claims to have the best pies in the city, all of which will be showcased on their specially-curated pie menu. Plus if this isn’t enough to get you out the door and battling the elements, all of the pies at the festival are just a tenner, meaning you can enjoy that hearty pastry-covered goodness on a budget.
Enjoy a Valentine’s-inspired bingo brunch at Pip
Head to Pip on Sunday 15th February for ‘Drag Me to Brunch’, a high-energy Valentine’s-inspired bingo brunch, offering a playful, exuberant contrast to the romance of the preceding days. Hosted by the iconic Anna Phylactic and Liquorice Black, the event promises live drag performances, big laughs, great music and an unforgettable brunch experience, with bottomless Lovebirds cocktails flowing throughout. Suitable for couples, groups of friends and the ultimate Galentine’s celebration.