Welcome to Manchester! From live music to shopping extravaganzas, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Get ready for a weekend filled with fun and adventure as we explore the best things to do in Manchester from April 26th to April 28th.
Whether you’re a music lover, a foodie, or a culture enthusiast, Manchester has you covered. Join in the excitement and make the most of your weekend in this vibrant city. Get ready to create unforgettable memories and experience the best of what Manchester has to offer!
1. Friday Events (April 26)
Club Night: Craig Charles Funk and Soul Club
Band on the Wall presents the renowned Craig Charles Funk and Soul Club, a vibrant and energetic night filled with the best funk and soul music. Craig Charles, a well-known DJ and actor, takes center stage, spinning soulful tunes that keep the dance floor alive until the early hours of the morning.
This lively event welcomes music lovers of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and dance along to the infectious rhythms. The intimate setting of Band on the Wall creates the perfect backdrop for an evening of non-stop fun.
Special guests The Apples, Israeli acid jazz experts, will treat the audience to a unique blend of Middle Eastern and funk influences, adding an extra layer of excitement to the night.
Secure your spot for this electrifying event by purchasing tickets online. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the Craig Charles Funk and Soul Club live in Manchester!
Gig: James with support from Echo and the Bunnymen
Get ready for an epic night of music at Manchester Arena featuring the legendary band James, supported by special guests Echo and the Bunnymen. This concert marks James’ first performance in Manchester since 2010, promising fans a night to remember with classic hits and new favorites.
Fans can expect a journey through James’ impressive career, from their indie-rock anthems to their latest chart-toppers. With support from Echo and the Bunnymen, known for their unique post-punk sound, the gig will celebrate the best of British music.
Tickets start at £38.50 and can be purchased online. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable event where two iconic bands come together to rock the stage at Manchester Arena!
Film: Evil Dead (18)
Attention horror fans! Get ready for a spooky night out in Manchester with the chilling remake of Evil Dead. Directed by Fede Alvarez, this supernatural thriller puts a modern twist on the cult classic by Sam Raimi, delivering a heart-pounding experience filled with suspense and gore.
Follow a group of teenagers as they stumble upon unimaginable horrors during a trip to an isolated cabin in the woods. When they accidentally unleash a sinister force, they must fight for their lives against demonic entities determined to take control of their souls.
Evil Dead is now showing at various cinemas across Manchester, offering horror enthusiasts the chance to enjoy this modern classic on the big screen. With screenings available all weekend, don’t miss your chance to dive into the terrifying world of Evil Dead and witness the horror firsthand!
2. Saturday Events (April 27)
Shopping: Bridesmaid Party at Lace Bridal
Lace Bridal, the North West’s leading bridal retailer, is hosting a special Bridesmaid Party to unveil its first-ever bridesmaid collection featuring British label, ButtonBelle.
The event offers brides and their bridesmaids a unique opportunity to come together, sip bubbly, and indulge in cake while previewing the exquisite ButtonBelle bridesmaid dresses.
The ButtonBelle line features vintage-inspired bridesmaid gowns made from lightweight chiffons and georgettes, with delicate shapes and timeless grace. From traditional designs to modern trends, there’s a dress for every wedding party’s taste and theme.
The Bridesmaid Party promises a relaxed and festive atmosphere, allowing brides and their bridesmaids to enjoy a memorable shopping experience surrounded by friends and loved ones. Expert stylists will be on hand to provide personalized advice and assistance, ensuring every attendee finds the perfect dress for the big day.
The Bridesmaid Party takes place at Lace Bridal in Hale from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, April 27. For more information and to RSVP, visit Lace Bridal’s website.
Food: Pie and Ale at The Hive, NQ
The Hive, located in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter, is home to Pie and Ale, the newest venture from the Bakerie family. Pie and Ale offers a delectable selection of savory pies paired with a diverse range of craft ales, providing the ultimate comfort food experience for food enthusiasts.
Indulge your taste buds with a variety of pastry delights, including traditional steak and ale pie, Moroccan spiced sweet potato and chickpea pie for vegetarians, and more. Each pie is lovingly crafted with quality ingredients and bursting with flavor, satisfying even the most discerning palate.
On Saturdays, Pie and Ale offers a special breakfast pie featuring Cumberland sausage, smoked bacon, egg, Heinz baked beans, homemade tomato sauce, and a crispy hash brown. This hearty breakfast option is the perfect way to kickstart your weekend brunch with a delicious twist.
The Hive’s cozy and inviting atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying a leisurely meal with friends or family. With its rustic charm and friendly service, Pie and Ale promises a memorable dining experience that keeps guests coming back for more.
Workshop: Build a book at John Rylands Library
Join designer and artist Guy Begbie for a special workshop on the art of bookbinding at the historic John Rylands Library. Participants will have the opportunity to discover the intricate process of bookmaking and create their own hardback book complete with concertina-style fold-out pages.
The workshop offers a hands-on learning experience, allowing attendees to explore the ins and outs of bookbinding under the guidance of an expert. From selecting materials to mastering binding techniques, participants will gain valuable skills and insights into the craft of bookmaking.
The Build a Book workshop is most suitable for adults and individuals aged 16 and above who have an interest in art, design, or book arts. No prior experience is necessary, making it accessible to beginners and enthusiasts alike.
To reserve your place at the Build a Book workshop, email jrl.events@manchester.ac.uk or call the John Rylands customer service team at 0161 306 0555. Spaces are limited, so be sure to secure your spot for this creative and educational event.
Club: VOX at Cinnabar
VOX, a new club night, is set to take Manchester by storm with its unique blend of French House and Nu-Disco music. Founded by electronic music enthusiasts Manzur Iqbal, Leon Riley, Marine Bezault, and Martin Krauel, VOX promises more than just a rave – it’s an immersive electronic music experience.
VOX features an exciting lineup of DJs, including Alan Braxe, known for his spectacular brand of electronic music. Supported by resident DJ Martin Krauel and synth-pop collaboration Futurecop!, VOX offers a diverse and dynamic soundtrack that keeps the dance floor pulsating all night long.
Cinnabar provides the perfect setting for VOX’s inaugural event, with its sleek and stylish interior, state-of-the-art sound system, and vibrant atmosphere. Attendees can expect an electrifying night of music, dancing, and unforgettable memories.
Advance tickets for VOX are available online for £5, offering club-goers the opportunity to secure their spot at one of Manchester’s hottest new club nights. With limited capacity, be sure to grab your tickets early and prepare for a night of electronic euphoria.
3. Sunday Events (April 28)
Greater Manchester Marathon
The Greater Manchester Marathon returns for its 37th edition, inviting runners and spectators alike to participate in one of the city’s most exhilarating events. Starting in Trafford and winding its way through iconic landmarks and neighborhoods, the marathon promises a day of excitement and athleticism.
Runners from across the globe gather to test their endurance and determination, tackling the 26.2-mile course amidst a backdrop of enthusiastic spectators and cheering supporters. With a scenic route showcasing the best of Manchester, participants can expect a challenging yet rewarding marathon experience.
Spectators line the streets to cheer on friends, family members, and strangers alike as they conquer the marathon course. From designated cheering zones to bustling spectator hubs, there are plenty of opportunities for spectators to show their support and join in the marathon excitement.
The Greater Manchester Marathon fosters a sense of community spirit and camaraderie, bringing together individuals of all ages and backgrounds in celebration of health, fitness, and achievement. Whether running or spectating, participants contribute to the vibrant energy of the event and the spirit of Manchester.
Shopping: Spring/summer fashion show at Trafford Centre
The Trafford Centre hosts a spectacular spring/summer fashion show in association with HELLO! Magazine, offering attendees a glimpse into the latest trends and styles for the upcoming season. Presented on the Orient stage, the fashion show showcases collections from a variety of retailers, providing fashion enthusiasts with inspiration and insight.
From chic summer dresses to stylish swimwear and accessories, the fashion show features a diverse range of spring/summer collections curated by leading retailers at the Trafford Centre. Attendees can expect to see cutting-edge designs and must-have pieces that capture the essence of the season.
The fashion show offers more than just a glimpse at the latest trends – it’s a immersive fashion experience complete with music, lights, and runway excitement. Attendees can soak in the atmosphere and get up close and personal with the season’s hottest looks, gaining inspiration for their own wardrobes.
HELLO! Magazine’s association with the fashion show adds an element of glamour and prestige, attracting fashion-forward individuals and industry insiders alike. Attendees have the opportunity to engage with fashion experts, stylists, and influencers, gaining valuable insights and insider tips.
Tour: Haunted Underworld Tour
The ghostly Underworld Tour takes you on a thrilling tour through Manchester’s ghostly history. Participants are taken by trained guides through the city’s deep depths, finding tales of ghouls, ghosts, and mysterious happenings.
The trip takes attendees on a fascinating journey into Manchester’s underworld, including secret waterways, World War II bomb shelters, and ancient chambers. Along the walk, interpreters tell scary stories and historical anecdotes, vividly depicting the city’s ghostly history.
The Haunted Underworld Tour immerses visitors in the spooky atmosphere of Manchester’s dark depths, creating a strange and evocative experience. The tour creates an atmosphere of suspense and mystery that keeps visitors on the edge of their seats with its dimly illuminated passageways and reverberating rooms.
Adults and kids over ten who are interested in history, intrigue, and the paranormal can enjoy the Haunted Underworld Tour. It is recommended that participants wear sturdy shoes, be ready for a cold and dark journey, and bring a feeling of surprise and inquiry.
Final words
Wrap up your Manchester weekend with a bang! There’s so much to explore and enjoy, from live music to spooky tours. Whether you’re cheering on runners at the marathon or discovering the latest fashion trends, Manchester has something for everyone.
Don’t miss out on the excitement—make the most of your weekend and create unforgettable memories in this vibrant city. With so many wonderful things to do, you’re sure to have a fantastic time in Manchester from April 26th to April 28th. So, grab your friends and family, and let the adventures begin!
