January in Manchester is all about fresh starts and easing back into city life after the festive break. Whether you’re setting new goals, sticking to a budget, or just looking for something fun to do with friends, the city still has plenty to offer.
Arts and Culture
Stories we Share Conversation at Manchester Art Gallery (16th)
Drop in for a free, informal conversation over tea and coffee inside the Trading Station exhibition. Handle teapots and mugs from around the world and share stories with gallery volunteers.
Recoverist Curators: Curator Tour (22nd)
Join Paul, a Recoverist Curator, for a guided tour of Recoverist Curators: Re-imagining the World We Live In at The Whitworth. Shaped by lived experiences of substance use and recovery, the exhibition explores inclusive, activist led approaches to creativity and community engagement.
Dino Draw-athon at Manchester Museum (31st)
Celebrate National Draw a Dinosaur Day with a free, drop-in creative session at Manchester Museum. Spend the afternoon drawing dinosaurs in the Fossils and Dinosaur Gallery, with materials provided and plenty of inspiration. There’ll also be fossil handling, dino collage crafts and more throughout the day.
HOME Cinema: January Screenings (Throughout January)
HOME kicks off the year with some of the best independent and award-winning films on the circuit. One January highlight is Hamnet (12A), starring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal in the adaptation of this bestselling novel, screening 9–15 January. Check HOME’s programme for their latest must see screenings.
Live Events and Gigs
SIX the Musical at Palace Theatre (13–17th)
The award-winning musical SIX returns to Manchester for a limited time. Follow the six wives of Henry VIII as they take the stage in a high energy retelling of history. With dazzling choreography, catchy songs, and plenty of humour, it’s a lively theatre night out, perfect for friends, students, or anyone looking to start the year with a fun and unforgettable show.
Paleface Swiss at Manchester Academy (15th)
Rising headliners Paleface Swiss bring their high energy live show to Manchester Academy 1 for one of January’s most intense concert nights. Expect heavy riffs, explosive drops and an electric crowd atmosphere, making it a brilliant chance to discover a fast growing act in a large, high energy venue.
LUMINISCENCE at Manchester Cathedral (16th – onwards)
Step inside Manchester Cathedral for LUMINISCENCE, a breathtaking immersive experience combining live choral music and large-scale light projections. Blending history, architecture and performance, the show transforms the cathedral into a multi-sensory journey through music and light. While not a traditional gig, it’s perfect for something a little different.
Candlelight: Tribute to Coldplay at Hallé St Peter’s (23rd)
Experience Coldplay’s biggest hits reimagined in a stunning candlelit setting at Hallé St Peter’s. Performed by a live string ensemble, this intimate concert blends atmospheric lighting with familiar melodies for a calm yet powerful musical experience. With multiple January dates available for other artists, it’s a unique way to enjoy live music in one of Manchester’s most beautiful venues!
Band on the Wall – Emerging Artists Nights (Throughout January)
Catch rising indie, jazz, and soul musicians for low cost or sometimes free gigs. A great spot to discover new local talent.
Enjoy January Food & Drink Deals
Post Christmas sales aren’t just for clothes. Across Manchester, bars, cafés and restaurants run January discounts, set menus and drink offers, ideal for budget friendly catch-ups after the holidays and nice meals out. Check out the best deals here!
Sports and Community
Manchester United vs Manchester City (17th)
The Manchester Derby is one of the biggest and most anticipated fixtures of the Premier League season. Whether you’re red, blue, or just here for the drama, this is the perfect excuse for a lively group outing. Expect packed pubs, electric atmospheres and plenty of match debate. Head to venues with multiple big screens like BOX Deansgate, The Courtyard, or The Footage, and arrive early to secure a good spot.
Heaton Park January Run (18th)
Start the year strong with a run through Heaton Park. With distances including a Half Marathon, 10k and charity runs, this event is open to both first time and experienced runners. The scenic course loops past the historic Heaton Hall, and the lively atmosphere, plus a unique finisher’s medal, making it a motivating way to start off the year.
Volunteer with Oxfam Charity Shops (throughout January)
With charity shops across Greater Manchester, Oxfam is always looking for volunteers and donations to help keep their stores running. Volunteering in a charity shop is a great way to gain retail and customer service experience, meet new people and support a good cause. Some stores even specialise in music, books or sustainable fashion, so there’s something for every interest. Check volunteering opportunities online or ask at your local Oxfam store.
South Manchester Parkrun – Platt Fields Park (Every Saturday)
Start your winter weekends with a refreshing 5k through Platt Fields. Whether you run, jog, walk, or cheer from the sidelines, Parkrun is a friendly and free way to stay active during the colder months, perfect for clearing your head before revision or festive plans.
Manchester Storm Ice Hockey Games at Planet Ice Altrincham (January dates)
Swap football for something a little different with a Manchester Storm ice hockey game. Expect fast-paced action, big hits and a lively crowd atmosphere at Planet Ice Altrincham. With tickets often more affordable than Premier League matches, it’s a fun, high-energy night out whether you’re a long time sports fan or completely new to ice hockey.
Take Part in Veganuary
January is the perfect time to try something new, and Manchester is one of the UK’s best cities for vegan food. Many cafés and restaurants offer Veganuary exclusive menus and discounts, making it easy (and affordable) to get involved. Check some of them out here!
Relaxing after assessments
Recharge 2026 – Free Access at the Armitage Centre (5 – 31st)
University of Manchester students can enjoy free gym and fitness classes at the Armitage Centre and Wellbeing Studios, both in-person and on Zoom. A great way to stay active, reduce stress, and recharge your energy between study sessions or after busy weeks.
Wellbeing Wednesday: Brew & a Chat at The Nest (21st)
Take a break from revision or deadlines with a free hot drink and friendly chat at the SU’s Wellbeing Wednesday. Drop by any time between 10:00am–2:00pm to relax and unwind. For a fun twist, grab a ticket for mug decorating for just £1 while you recharge.
Try Pilates, Yoga & More – Discounted ClassPass Trial
Start the year feeling energised with a discounted trial of ClassPass, offering a variety of classes such as pilates, yoga, and more across Manchester. Perfect for students looking to try something new and de-stress after exams or deadlines.