May marks the start of exam season, but that doesn’t mean the city slows down. With longer days, warmer weather and plenty of relaxed events, it’s the perfect time to balance revision with moments to unwind. Whether you’re looking for a calm study break, a quick night out, or something active to clear your head, here’s what’s happening this month.
Arts & Culture
Waving Kites: Flowing Stories at Manchester Museum (16)
Join a screening of Flowing Stories as part of the Waving Kites: Hong Kong Diaspora Cinema UK tour, exploring stories of the Hong Kong diaspora across generations and places. The event includes an online Q&A with director Jessey Tsang and takes place in the Kanaris Theatre from 2–4:15pm. It’s free but a booking is required!
Sketch Break at Manchester Art Gallery (22)
Take a mindful study break with this free, volunteer-led drop-in session focused on drawing, conversation and reflection. Running from 1–3pm, Sketch Break encourages visitors to slow down, engage with artworks differently and connect through creativity in a relaxed gallery setting. No experience needed, just drop in and take a moment away from your studies.
Manchester Flower Festival (23–25)
One of Manchester’s biggest feel-good weekends returns with free floral installations, workshops and outdoor dining across the city centre. This year’s theme, “Green Manchester”, celebrates the city’s parks and future nature projects, transforming areas like Exchange Square, St Ann’s Square and King Street into colourful botanical spaces. A perfect and free way to enjoy the spring in the city.
Delaine Le Bas: Un-Fair-Ground Curator Tour at The Whitworth (28)
Join Assistant Curator Hannah Vollam for a deeper look into Delaine Le Bas’s exhibition Un-Fair-Ground, exploring themes of identity, belonging and nationhood through installation, embroidery, sculpture and performance. Running from 6–7pm, this free tour offers new insights into one of contemporary art’s most distinctive voices. Booking required.
Gigs and Live Events
Sienna Spiro at Manchester Academy (16)
Rising singer-songwriter Sienna Spiro brings her emotional vocals and viral tracks to Manchester Academy this month. Tickets have officially sold out, but resale tickets are still appearing online, so it’s worth checking if you don’t want to miss one of the fastest-rising new artists of the year.
The Blues Kitchen Pub Quiz (Every Tuesday)
Take a break from revision and test your knowledge at The Blues Kitchen’s weekly pub quiz. Expect good music, fun rounds, prizes and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for switching off for an evening with friends during exam season. Great food and drink deals make it an easy midweek activity on a budget.
Band on the Wall – Live Music Nights (Throughout May)
One of Manchester’s most iconic venues, Band on the Wall hosts a mix of jazz, soul, indie and global artists throughout May. With intimate gigs, affordable tickets and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a great spot for discovering new music or taking a break from exam stress with friends.
Sports & Community
Mental Health Awareness Week Drop-In at University Place (13)
Take a break during exam season at this relaxed drop-in event for Mental Health Awareness Week. Head to The Atrium from 11am–2pm for creative writing exercises, zine making, Nintendo Switch games and a chance to unwind with others on campus. A simple, low-pressure way to recharge and reconnect during a busy time of year.
Premier League Final Day (24)
The Premier League season comes to an end with one final afternoon of drama. It’s the perfect excuse to head out for pints with friends and soak up the atmosphere in sports bars across Manchester. Popular student-friendly spots like The Courtyard, BOX Deansgate, and Turing Tap often run cheap drink deals and offers throughout the day.
One of the UK’s biggest running events returns to Manchester, bringing thousands of runners and huge crowds into the city centre. Join the University’s famous Purplewave and run, jog or walk alongside students, staff and alumni in matching purple shirts. It’s all about community, movement and having fun rather than competition. Whether you’re taking part or cheering from the sidelines, the atmosphere is incredible and a great way to spend a Sunday.
Maker’s Market (Throughout May)
Still going strong with new stalls every week. Now that the days are warmer, head to the Maker’s Markets. From sweet treats to quirky handmade gifts, it’s great for a relaxed day out. Find them in Ancoats, Salford Quays, and Didsbury, all free entry.
CosySpaces & Community Hubs (All month)
Manchester’s libraries and community centres offer free tea, Wi-Fi, and chill spaces for anyone needing a cosy break. Central Library and Hulme Community Garden Centre are top picks for studying, reading, or just relaxing. Find out more about alternative study spaces in Manchester here.