October has arrived, and people right across the UK are coming together to celebrate Black History Month.
First celebrated in the UK in 1987, Black History Month is an event intended to recognise the contribution and achievements of those with African or Caribbean heritage, and is also an opportunity for people to learn more about the effects of racism and how to challenge negative stereotypes.
A worthy light is shone on Black British history and key black figures from the UK during the annual event.
Being such a multi-cultural region, Greater Manchester is known for being a place that champions everything Black History Month is about, with a wide range of events happening throughout the month and beyond.
Here’s just some of the things you could be getting up to.
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1. Black History Matters – Made in Manchester
1 – 31 October
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Written by 15-year-old anti racist activist Tamera following the death of George Floyd, Black History Matters – Made in Manchester is the first volume of an online pamphlet shining a light on black people from Manchester who shaped events and impacted the lives of ordinary people.
“Manchester has a rich history of Black people in struggle that is rarely acknowledged [and] this book is a great contribution to remembering this past and the agency of key individuals – through developing our knowledge we will strengthen our anti racist movement today.” – Dr Shirin Hirsch, historian at Manchester Metropolitan University.
You can find more information, and grab your copy online here.
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2. Black History Month at HOME
1 – 31 October
HOME Manchester
With everything from online theatre and post-show discussions, to a curated film offering, drop-in workshops, music sessions and more, HOME MCR is celebrating Black artistic brilliance and groundbreaking Black artists and talent across film, theatre, art, music and comedy in the North West this month with a programme of exciting events designed to bring people together to uplift, inspire and entertain.
You can find HOME’S Black History Month programme of events in full here.
3. Knock Out Blow!
Tuesday 5 October
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Piccadilly Gardens
‘Knock Out Blow!’ is a community-led play that explores the life of Manchester boxing legend Len Johnson.
It’s concerned with challenging racial discrimination and celebrating our collective history, and forms part of The People’s Assembly’s broader campaign aimed at addressing systemic racial inequalities by providing more realistic and positive Black history and role models for Manchester.
HOME MCR is celebrating Black artistic brilliance and groundbreaking Black artists and talent throughout this month / Credit: HOME Manchester‘Knock Out Blow!’ is a community-led play that explores the life of Manchester boxing legend Len Johnson / Credit: The People’s Assembly
4. In Conversation with Professor Dame Elizabeth Anionwu
Wednesday 6 October
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Professor Dame Anionwu will be in discussion with the Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society’s president Ian Cameron as part of an online event this Wednesday to discuss Mary Seacole and her own long and illustrious career in nursing.
The discussion will cover the lives, struggles and achievements of both women, who grew up over a century apart, but as mixed-race girls, both had to overcome the obstacles and frustrations of white, male-dominated society.
Tickets are priced at £5.98, and more information can be found here.
5. Black History is World History
Wednesday 6, 13, 20, & 27 October
Manchester Central Library
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A series of ‘Black History is World History’ educational sessions and free workshops aimed at adults and designed to take you on a whirlwind exploration of black history through the ages are happening at Manchester Central Library every Wednesday evening in October from 5.30pm -7.30pm.
You can find more about what’s happening each week here.
6. Judas and the Black Messiah
Sunday 10 October
Prestwich Community Cinema
In this gripping true-life 2021 drama film, Academy Award winner Daniel Kaluuya stars as Fred Hampton – a young, charismatic activist who becomes Chairman of the Illinois chapter of the Black Panther Party, putting him directly in the crosshairs of the government, the FBI, and the Chicago Police.
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But to destroy the revolution, the authorities are going to need a man on the inside – FBI mole Bill O’Neal, played by fellow Oscar nominee LaKeith Stanfield.
The film will be screened at The Carlton Club in Prestwich, and you can grab tickets here.
Academy Award-winner Daniel Kaluuya stars in the 2021 gripping true-life drama film Judas and the Black Messiah / Credit: YouTubeBooker Prize-winning novelist Bernadine Evaristo will discuss her ground-breaking work with fellow writer and MLF Patron Jackie Kay / Credit: Wikimedia Commons
7. An Evening with Bernadine Evaristo
Monday 11 October
HOME Manchester
To celebrate Black History Month and as part of Manchester Literature Festival 2021 at HOME Manchester, Anglo-Nigerian novelist, poet and theatre writer Bernardine Evaristo – who was the first Black woman and the first Black British author to win the Booker Prize for her stunning novel Girl, Woman, Other – will discuss her ground-breaking work with fellow writer and MLF Patron Jackie Kay.
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Tickets start at £16, and you can grab yours here.
8. Can I Live?
Monday 11 October
HOME Manchester
Offered by HOME Manchester on a ‘Pay What You Decide’ basis, this filmed performance of Can I Live? invites audiences to join Fehinti Balogun on a journey into the world of environmental activism, as he tells the story of how, as a young Black British man, his path has been forever changed by what he’s learnt about our planet.
Can I Live? uses original hip-hop and spoken word, and is described as a call-to-arms to anyone curious about what we can do to help.
For a one-off night exploring the life and music of one America’s most prolific and influential composers, Untold Orchestra will cover the breadth of Nina Simone’s career alongside acclaimed vocalist Yemi Bolatiwa – who takes centre stage at Blues Kitchen Manchester to recite Simone’s powerful lyrics.
From ‘Feeling Good’ to ‘Sinnerman’, Nina Simone’s most iconic melodies set a standard for a generation of jazz and soul artists.
This 2016 film based on the non-fiction book of the same name by Margot Lee Shetterly stars Taraji P. Henson, and Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe and tells the little-known story of three black female mathematicians who played a vital part in NASA’s space race.
Despite their outstanding work, they have often been overlooked by the history books.
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The film will be screened by Small Cinema at Oldham Library & Lifelong Learning Centre, with tickets from just £3 here.
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Featured Image – HOME Manchester
What's On
The best graduation deals and freebies in Manchester this celebration season
Danny Jones
To all those completing their university degrees this year, first off: congratulations – and second of all, we’re sure you’re looking forward to making the most of all those graduation deals, offers and free stuff you can grab in Manchester this year.
We know we were when it was our time (longer ago than we’d like to admit…)
The post-graduation ceremony meal – hopefully at least one final meal your parents are happy to cover the bill for before sending you out into ‘the big wide world’ – is a truly special one, but there’s no reason you shouldn’t still look for savings where you can.
So, without further ado, here’s a list of graduate deals and freebies available in central Manchester for the class of 2026.
15 of the best offers and free things for 2026 graduates
1. Fenix – St. John’s
What is it: One of the best restaurants in Manchester, serving up plates featuring plenty of Greek heritage as well as modern-Mediterranean, elevated cuisine from one of the city centre’s fastest-growing neighbourhoods.
The offer: Special lunch menu noon until 3:45pm set at just £37.50 or sit down for dinner from £45.50; both include a complimentary glass of Prosecco, and you can even walk away with an engraved bottle of Champagne to take home with you. Available 1 July until 1 August – reserve your table while you can.
2. The Alchemist – Central, Spinningfields and Salford Quays
What is it: Manc-born mixologists and cocktail bar chain which started in Spinningfields, before opening on New York Street and beyond and going on to be a staple of the UK hospitality scene.
The offer: A complimentary ‘Cosmic Oyster’ for everyone around your table when booking ahead – you can do so HERE.
What is it: Stylish London-centric seafood and grill with Japanese and Robata-inspired cuisine, best-known for sushi, steak and their famous caramelised black cod dish.
The offer: Extensive sharing-style menu priced at £55 a head, including all the highlights and a gratis glass of Henriot Champagne for every guest, available until 24 July; you can reserve your spot now.
What is it: A canalside cornerstone of the Castlefield community, with a large outdoor terrace and beer garden, complete with a dedicated cocktail hut on busy sunny days, and two cosy floors inside.
The offer: Graduation set menu, with options for two or three courses and a glass of fizz on them, running from 6-31 July. Find out more.
What is it: Boutique city centre hotel just off Market Street offering numerous luxuries, including afternoon tea packages, set menus and more from the in-house restaurant, tender by award-winning chef Niall Keating, as well as various high-end rooms.
The offer: Free glass of cava with bookings, simple as that; available all throughout July and August.
What is it: Stunning, homely gastropub and bistro with multiple rooms across two floors, as well as a large terrace with various open-air and covered areas.
The offer: Happy hour drinks for your entire party and the chance to be the one lucky winner who’ll have the ENTIRE overdraft paid off in full by the team as part of a prize draw. Book and find the full terms and conditions right HERE.
Credit: The Manc
7. Piccolino – Central, Didsbury, Bramhall, Hale, Wilmslow and Knutsford
What is it: Popular British chain of Italian restaurants operated by the Individual Restaurants Group (IRG), with numerous locations across the country.
The offer: Graduates get a complimentary glass of champagne alongside their classic recipe tiramisu on the house. Booking in advance is advised.
What is it: Another one of the IRG brands, offering similar Italian cuisine as well as great deals and an expanded drinks menu.
The offer: Freshly crowned graduates dining from the special set menu can enjoy a bonus Bellini to toast their success.
Credit: The Manc
9. The Lowry – Salford
What is it: One of Greater Manchester’s most famous hotels, located right on the edge of the city centre, with a highly-rated bar and restaurant to boot. Needs no introduction really.
The offer: Those staying in town for their ceremony can enjoy a luxurious stay with 10% off the best available rate, plus 15% off food and drink, a complimentary bottle of Champagne, AND 50% off a second room for family members, too. A perfect package for out-of-towners – you can book HERE.
What is it: One of the best curry houses in all the region, specialising in contemporary Indian food and Pakistani flavours, too.
The offer: Their popular annual graduation deal is back for 2026, with the customary welcome drink making a return alongside a signature pudding to finish off; make sure to write ‘graduation’ and add ‘dessert’ in the booking notes. They’re also right near the main uni stretch, which is always handy.
What is it: ‘Feast of the Wise’ graduation menus are available from £37.50 for lunch and £45.50 for dinner, both including a complimentary glass of Prosecco
The offer: ‘Power of Wisdom’ set menu – £37.50 for lunch and £45.50 for dinner – with graduates receiving an ‘Elixir of Life cocktail’, or a complimentary glass of Prosecco.
Credit: The Manc
12. Browns – Central
What is it: A mainstay of the King Street strip, just around the corner from Cibo and The Rex hotel (another good option for those stopping over), specialising in British and European brasserie classics.
The offer: Receive a complimentary glass of Browns’ very own Champagne for the graduate and every accompanying guest, with two courses for £29 or a trio for just £36. You can book HERE.
What is it: Authentic Lebanese cuisine in a classy city centre setting, with covered outdoor seating and some great vegan options, too.
The offer: Graduates and guests can enjoy a 25% student discount, a wrap and fries offer for £10.95, or mark the occasion with a full ‘Graduation Feast’ for £32.50, including a free glass of Prosecco or a non-alcoholic alternative. *This offer cannot be used alongside other offers, however.
Credit: The Manc
14. Chotto Matte – St. Michael’s
What is it: A sky-high rooftop food and drink spot where Japan and Peru meet in an incredible fusion that makes for a fantastic culinary experience.
The offer: ‘Nikkei’ dining experience throughout July, with a curated sharing menu (£40pp/£35 for vegetarians) and a complimentary glass of Pommery Champagne for the graduates.
What is it: The Yorkshire-born brand now serving up us locals from their New York St site and arguably one of the best places for a posh tea or meal out no matter the occasion, with top-quality steak, seafood, bubbles and more.
The offer: Three courses with a glass of Prosecco on arrival for £55; you can even upgrade to the proper stuff – pay an extra tenner for Moët & Chandon Champagne for each person.
Kings of Leon at Co-op Live Manchester – tickets, times, setlist and more for UK tour
Thomas Melia
American rock band Kings of Leon are making their way to Manchester for a second visit to Co-op Live as part of their current EU/UK arena tour.
Formed in 1999 by brothers Caleb, Nathan, Jared, plus their cousin Matthew Followill, the rock band has gone on to achieve nine top 40 singles and six UK number one albums.
The rockers have two singles in Spotify’s Billions Club, including their standout hit ‘Sex on Fire’, which has amassed over 2 billion streams and ‘Use Somebody’ with 1.2 billion – two tracks that helped skyrocket them from cult favourites here in Britain to global superstars.
This four-piece’s latest LP, Can We Please Have Fun, dropped mid-2024 and knowing how energetic crowds were at the previous Manc gig, it’s safe to say we’ve got this covered.
They even let us know the England score last time out (read our full review), too.
Gig guide – Kings of Leon at Co-op Live, Manchester
Kings of Leon UK tour dates
Fri 3 July – Glasgow, UK – Bellahouston Park
Sat 4 July – Manchester, UK – Co-op Live
Mon 6 July – Leeds, UK – First Direct Bank Arena
Are there any tickets left for Kings of Leon at Co-op Live?
If you’re wondering where you’ll ‘Find Me’ on Saturday 4 July, it is probably watching these four relatives play their two decades’ worth of hits at Co-op Live.
Don’t ‘Waste a Moment’ as there’s only a limited number of tickets left if you’re after catching a glimpse of Kings of Leon live – get yours HERE.
Kings of Leon are gearing up for their Manchester gig at Co-op Live this July (Credit: Press shot)
Kings of Leon setlist for 2026 UK tour
These American rockers have been performing all across Europe, switching up a couple of songs at each show; however, the hits below have featured at most of their appearances.
Slow Night, So Long
Waste a Moment
Find Me
On Call
Radioactive
The Bucket
Revelry
Manhattan
Use Somebody
Wait For M
Split Screen
Closer
Molly’s Chambers
Razz
MyParty
Supersoaker
Fans
Back Down South
Seen
Pyro
Black Thumbnail
To Space
Knocked Up
Sex on Fire
What are the stage times for Kings of Leon in Manchester?
Doors for Kings of Leon at Co-op Live in Manchester are set to open at 6pm with a kick-off time of 7pm from a huge indie rock band.
Supporting the US rockers is a band who have received comparisons to Kings of Leon, the loud-and-proud Scottish stars The Snuts, known for their tracks like ‘Glasgow’, ‘Elephants’ and ‘Maybe California’.
For those of you heading to Co-op Live, you’ll be glad to know it’s right next door to a rather famous big blue stadium and its integrated Metrolink stop.
Head along the light blue or orange lines directly to the Etihad Campus or Ashton-under-Lyne, and you can get off the tram literally spitting distance from the arena. You can find the full map HERE.
Trams run frequently on the Ashton-Eccles line to the Etihad stop, with services leaving every six minutes from the city centre and until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays.
Bus
You can find the full list of bus routes HERE, with the one in closest proximity to the venue being the 53 bus, which runs from Cheetham Hill through to Higher Crumpsall, Old Trafford and Pendleton, leaving just a two-minute walk to Co-op Live.
If you’re driving, there is limited parking available at the venue, but this must be pre-booked ahead of time, and there are designated drop-off areas.
The postcode is M11 3DU, and you can follow the signs towards the wider Etihad Campus as you get closer; directions to the adjacent drop-off points will also be signposted.
Keep in mind that congestion on the roads close to the stadium is expected to gather around two hours prior to any event, so if you are travelling on the road, these are the suggested times they provide on event day, though estimates will obviously vary:
Alan Turing Way (both directions): plan an additional 20 minutes into any journey by road.
Hyde Road (eastbound): expect an additional 15 minutes to be added to your journey.
Mancunian Way (westbound): plan for an extra 10 minutes of travel time.
There are also three park-and-ride facilities near Co-op Live, but be advised that the Velopark and Holt Town stops will be closed post-event to help safely manage crowds:
Ashton West (Ashton line) – 184 spaces and 11 disabled spaces
Ladywell (Ashton-Eccles line) – 332 spaces and 22 disabled spaces
Walk/cycle
Lastly, Co-op Live is only a half-hour stroll from Manchester Piccadilly, and you could even walk along the canal all the way to the front door if you fancy taking the scenic route.
Greater Manchester now also offers the option to hire bikes on the Beryl app, with riders able to locate, unlock, get to their destination and then safely lock up the bike all through an easy-to-use app. There are hire points just near the south-west corner of the Etihad Stadium on Ashton New Road.
For more information on all travel options, you can check out the enhanced journey planner.
Tickets for Kings of Leon’s UK tour dates are selling out fast. (Credit: Raph_PH via Wikimedia Commons)
Emily Sergeant -
5th October 2021 
