Whilst many of you are undertaking essays and assessment at the moment, there is so much going on throughout the month for when you’re taking a study break – or to celebrate the end of exams and deadlines. We’ve broken the events down into categories so there’s something for everyone, with plenty of free and lower-cost events too.
Arts and Culture
There’s so much going on this month, we’ve had to break it down even further – here’s a round up of the best in each category.
Performance and Media – GASP Fest 2024 brings the spine-chilling thrills of horror to Manchester with a curated selection of terrifying films, offering a captivating experience for fans of the genre, there are various dates but you can look at the schedule here. On 21-25 May, Jesus Christ Superstar is playing at The Lowry, it’s a powerful rendition of the iconic rock opera, immersing viewers in the heart of the biblical-inspired drama. Meanwhile, WOW Manchester presents Jordan Stephens at Factory International, discussing masculinity and mental health on 26 May, there are many other events as part of the WOW showcase to check out too.
Science and Technology – throughout May, Power Up at the Science and Industry Museum offers an immersive journey through the evolution of video games. Additionally, Stephen Hawking at Work provides unique insights into the groundbreaking contributions of the legendary physicist, inviting audiences to delve into the mysteries of the universe. Check out all the other exhibitions happening throughout May.
Art and Exhibitions – From 3 May, Ayo Akingbade: Show Me The World Mister at The Whitworth presents compelling narratives through film and photography, offering an immersive experience for visitors to engage with. Starting on 23 May, The University of Salford Art Collection brings together the new work and co-commissions by Shezad Dawood, Jessica El Mal, Parham Ghalamdar and RA Walden in Hybrid Futures, interpreting the threat of climate change.
Literature and Writing – The Manchester Literature Festival offers a diverse range of literary events and performances, celebrating the written word and fostering a culture of storytelling in the community, across various dates and venues throughout the month. On 8 May, Writers Club x Manchester provides a platform for aspiring poets and authors, fostering a community of fellow writers. and there’s also a writing group for Writing on Grief at the Central Library on 9 May. Plus, if you want to get hold of great books for cheap, don’t miss the second hand book sale at The Elizabeth Gaskell House on 12 May.
Arts and Crafts On 12 May, at the esea contemporary gallery, there will be a marine life inspired collage making session, with materials provided. Try your hands at flower arranging with this free floristry workshop on 16 May, or, if you’re interested in seeing other people’s crafts there’s a new Manchester Made Market in Deansgate, on 25 & 26 April.
Gigs and Nights Out
Music lovers will be overwhelmed with choice this month but here are our top picks.
Tonight, 2 May, DIO presents Tanner and the Tones – Live Big Band Jazz will take place at AREA – Manchester. On 3 May, Kula Shaker will be performing at O2 Ritz. On 3 May, Kenya Grace will take the stage at Gorilla and The Allergies will be performing at Band on the Wall in Manchester. On 4 May Ledisi will be at Manchester Academy 2. On 5-6 May, Mungo’s HiFi & Solo Banton will be performing at The Blues Kitchen. On 11 May, The Feeling will perform at Albert Hall. and, Kacey Musgraves: Deeper Well World Tour will be at O2 Apollo Manchester. On 14 May, DEA Matrona will perform at Night & Day Café . On 16 May, Lucy Spraggan will be performing at Manchester Academy. On 22 May, Teenage Dads will perform at The Deaf Institute. Concluding the month, on 28 May, Puerto Candelaria will perform at Band on the Wall. If you’re looking for more, check out the listings at YES and New Century Hall, plus Sofar Sounds Manchester will host secret events at a location to be disclosed on different dates.
Festivals
Festival season is already starting (even if the weather isn’t quite there yet), here are a selected few.
Commencing with the SICK Festival, a celebration of art and well-being, taking place in various venues across Manchester, check out the full listings here. Following this, on 5 May Sounds from the Other City invigorates Salford with its eclectic music and arts showcase. The Chorlton Arts Festival unfolds in the vibrant neighborhood of Chorlton, offering a diverse range of cultural events and activities 17-16 May. Then, the Manchester Jazz Festival 2024 captivates audiences with its dynamic jazz performances, held at various venues throughout Manchester, 17-26 May. Continuing, the South Manchester Food Festival tantalises taste buds with its culinary delights, 18-19 May. Finally, 18 May Meltchester promises a melting pot of music and entertainment, with dates and locations to be announced.
Movement
This month, the focus on improving your wellbeing is Get Active, so here are some events to help you take care of yourself.
Starting with the on 4 & 5 May, Green Walk Open House Weekend in Whalley Range, participants can explore various venues in the neighbourhood. Following this, the MS Walk Manchester 2024 takes place on 11 May, offering a chance for participants to raise awareness and funds for multiple sclerosis research, location undisclosed. Plus, GM Walking Festival 2024 is happening across the whole month, offering a plethora of walking events and activities across Greater Manchester, with diverse locations and routes for participants to explore. And lastly, Purple Wave is running the 10k on 26 May for any keen runners.
Outdoors
There are plenty of ways to connect with nature this month, especially great if you need a break from being stuck at a desk all day.
On 3 May Beltane Walk in the Woods invites nature enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the beauty of the woodland. On 4 May, Forest Bathing at Clifton Country Park offers a rejuvenating experience amidst nature, or join for a serene Late Spring Walk in the Park at Crumpsall Park, where participants gather for a leisurely stroll. Continuing on 12 May, Serotonin Sunday promises a day of relaxation and wellness. On 16 May, Think It, Make It, Grow It: Clayton Session 1 invites attendees to engage in creative endeavors. Next, on 25 May, Exploring the Grand Canals of Manchester offers a free expert tour along the historic waterways of Manchester. Don’t miss the Manchester Flower Festival happening across the city 24-27 May. Finally, on 30 May, Intro to Forest Gardening: Fruit Tree Guilds takes place at the GROWE centre, providing insights into sustainable gardening practices.
Community
On 15 May The Queer Creatives Assembly takes place at Waterside Arts in Trafford, a gathering celebrating LGBTQ creativity and innovation as part of the Pride in Trafford festival, 15-18 May. Following this, on 11 May, Breathe Easy: A Walk for Lung Health and Community Wellbeing invites participants to a rejuvenating walk promoting lung health and community welfare, for individuals with long-term lung or other health conditions, Alexandra Park.