It’s both half term and Halloween around the corner, so you know we’re in for a busy week.
With the spooky season officially here, and schools now officially out for October half term, the events calendar is absolutely jam-packed with all sorts of different things to be getting up to right across Greater Manchester this week.
If you’re finding it a bit tricky to choose though, then we’ve cherry-picked a few of the best bits for another edition of our ‘what’s on‘ – only this time, with a terrifying Halloween twist.
Luna’s Legendary Creature Halloween Trail gives visitors the chance to get up close to five of Chester Zoo’s most magical species.
Having now kicked-off, and running right up until Halloween itself, the rhinoceros hornbill, Sulawesi-crested macaque, and huge Sunda gharial crocodile are just some of the species you’ll get to learn all about as you make your way around the 90-minute interactive trail.
You’ll be tasked with helping Luna the witch discover a legendary creature living deep inside the zoo’s Monsoon Forest habitat.
Pumpkin Lanterns / Credit: CityCo / Manchester BID
There couldn’t be a more ideal time to catch a glimpse of the pumpkins.
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If you’re looking to get in the mood for Halloween, but want to keep things a little on the cheaper side this week, then you need look no further than up above in the city centre as the annual decorative pumpkin lanterns are back once again.
Going on a little tour to see the lanterns in the trees in St Ann’s Square, Market Street, and beyond is the perfect activity for all the family, easy to plan, and great for pictures – and it’s FREE too.
A brand-new exhibition is currently having its world premiere at the Science and Industry Museum in Manchester, and it’s giving families the chance to “dive headfirst into the digestive system” and “travel like a poo”.
The new blockbuster exhibition, Operation Ouch!, is based on and will see the award-winning CBBC children’s TV series brought to life.
Visitors can expect interactive experiences, amazing objects from the Science Museum Group’s collection, and appearances from world-renowned doctors who will be on hand to guide audiences through this “lively, interactive, and playful adventure to better understand our brilliant bodies”.
Did you know you can get a pass to visit loads of National Trust sites across the UK for FREE this autumn?
Autumn in Greater Manchester is a wonderful thing, and and our region is filled with places to appreciate the beauty of this much-loved season – but if you were looking for a reason to travel a little further afield to experience everything nature has to offer and see the leaves change colour, then it doesn’t get much better than this.
This is why the National Trust wants to give people the chance to “experience the awe of the season” at no extra cost.
Autumn at the National Trust / Credit: National Trust
The pass allows free entry for two adults and up to three children, one adult and up to four children, or just two adults on their own.
Find out more about how to claim the limited-time offer here.
A magical new Halloween lakeside light trail has transformed Partridge Lakes Fishery in Warrington into “an enchanting Halloween attraction”.
Organisers say the hour-long immersive experience is like “stepping into a living Halloween storybook”.
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You’ll be able to see the “mesmerising world of Halloween wonder” come to life as you stroll along a winding path around the lake’s edge that leads that takes you on a magical journey through woodland decorated by eerie and captivating lights.
Richard Kelly: A Time and Place / Credit: Kimpton Clocktower Hotel
Some rarely-seen photos of Amy Winehouse are currently on display in Manchester to mark the late singer’s 40th birthday.
The exclusive images of the legendary vocalist are forming part of an exhibition showcasing work by critically-acclaimed music photographer Richard Kelly that’s currently happening down at the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel in the city centre.
Following its unprecedented popularity, the exhibition‘s stay in our city has been extended, and will now be running until the end of October.
Spookfest is back once again for 2023, and is promising more frightful fun than ever before.
Having returned to the Trafford Centre for yet another spooky season, visitors heading down to the massive shopping centre can expect a scary circus, a frightening fairground full of retro rides, and a seriously-impressive five-metre tall tower of pumpkins.
You can also get into the spooky spirit with free face painting, the chance to meet and greet a whole host of Halloween characters, and so much more.
The Oast House’s legendary Christmas has returned to Spinningfields for the festive season.
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Set to be a popular spot for locals and those who’ve finished a hard day at work during the colder months, The Teepee officially reopened last week and is made up of three tents joined together with a huge open hub, complete with two roaring fires, twinkling fairy lights, faux fur throws.
The Teepee is famed for its free live music, home-cooked food, and laidback warm and welcoming atmosphere.
There’s a mouthwatering street food menu, a selection of limited-edition winter cocktails, mulled wine, and festive hot chocolates, and, of course, a stage area set up for guests to dance the night away – with a packed lineup of live gigs all planned over the next few months.
Manchester Folk Festival is back for another year of action in 2023.
The beloved multi-venue festival based in right across Manchester city centre takes place each October and brings together a diverse range of artists who represent the broad definition of contemporary folk music.
The Breath, Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly, Oysterband, and Boss Morris are just some of the names forming part of this year’s jam-packed lineup of talent.
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Find out more, and grab last-minute tickets and wristbands here.
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Fancy trying out some new bars, and restaurants that have opened in Greater Manchester this month?
October is set to be a big month for new restaurant openings in Manchester.
Some of the most high-anticipated launches of the year are taking place this month, with everything from Sexy Fish, that hugely glitzy London establishment that’s moving into Spinningfields at long last, to Louisiana fried chicken legends Popeyes.
Leeds’ favourite ramen house House of Fu is also opening, and there’s a Broadway Diner, where wait staff sing musical numbers at you while you eat.
You’ll also find new restaurants to check out right across Greater Manchester too.
The Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair / Credit: GNCCF
One of the UK’s biggest and most prestigious craft shows returns to Manchester this week.
Now in its 16th year, the award-winning The Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair brings together over 200 of the most talented makers and designers from across the UK all under one roof at the historic Victoria Baths – with exhibitors including printmakers, ceramicists, jewellery makers, textile and glass artists, metal workers, silversmiths, and furniture and lighting designers.
The festival provides a unique opportunity to view and buy original handmade pieces from both established artists, and new graduate talent showcasing their work for the first time.
A new series of events will whisk guests around town sampling some of the city’s very best bars and pubs.
Launched by local food and drink writer and WSET-qualified wine expert Kelly Bishop, the Manchester Wine Tours will feature Manchester bars, restaurants, pubs, and wine shops specially chosen by Kelly.
Each tour will cost £75 per person and will include a guided tour around Manchester city centre, six small glasses of wine, and a series of wine-matched snacks at four different places, and along the way, Kelly will also be on hand to point out local points of interest and things you might not already know about the city.
Featured Image – The Oast House | Science Museum Group | CityCo / ManchesterBID
What's On
Where to watch Tyson Fury vs Oleskandr Usyk 2 in Manchester city centre
Danny Jones
Tyson Fury vs Usyk 2: ‘Undisputed’ is nearly upon us with the two contenders fighting to become unified heavyweight champion, and as the biggest fight of the year (at least since the last one), you might rightly be wondering where in Manchester is best to watch it.
With a homegrown albeit controversial talent on one side in Fury and a no-nonsense, not to mention undefeated Ukrainian on the other, there’ll be Mancs cheering for both sides but regardless of who you want to win, we can assure you town is going to be absolutely rammed with fight fans.
That being said, much like getting in the ring itself, you’re best having a game plan if you haven’t already sorted out where you’re going to watch the Fury vs Usyk rematch.
Now, you’re going to want to bank on big rooms with plenty of space for those coming last minute; don’t worry, we’ve got a few ideas and they’re decently spaced out in terms of area too.
Where to watch the Fury vs Usyk 2 fight in Manchester city centre
1. Tank and Paddle – Printworks
Spread across too large floors, it still has all the appeal of the old place and more. (Credit: The Manc Eats)
First up on the list is the newest addition to the Printworks entertainment complex: Tank and Paddle, which has taken over the old Yates site. Specialising in craft beers, cocktails, big pizzas and big screens for live sport, if you used to head here for the boxing before you have even more reason to now.
2. BOX – Deansgate
Next up is arguably the current king of Manchester’s live sports bar scene. Famous for great food, live music, shuffleboard, big steins of beer and even pornstar martinis (yes, whole pitchers of the stuff), as well as its giant jumbotron screen, it’s literally impossible for you to miss a single punch thrown here.
ln at number three is what we refer to as old faithful but, to repeat its true title, is The Brotherhood of Pastimes and Pursuits. We never ever say that name in full but we what do on a regular basis is head here after work, as well as pre and post-matchday to watch the rest of the action and play some games whilst we’re at it. It will be heaving for the fight but if you can book or get there early, you’ll have a ball.
Speaking of reliable after work and weekend haunts, they don’t get more tried and tested than Roxy Ball Room as we simply like to call her, our lovely lady Roxy. Shuffleboard, bowling, darts, pool, table tennis, basketball machines, beer pong, curling – oh yeah, and you can look up to watch the boxing if you want…
Fifth and finally, Mother Mary’s is the unsung hero of our list. It’s fast becoming one of our favourite places to watch sport anywhere in town. It’s popped over on New Wakefield St where Manc institution The Font used to be and it won’t stay the city centre’s best kept secret for long, so make sure you grab a table, one the cheapest pints of Guinness around and a seat in front of the big screens whilst you can.
Honourable mention…
Shooters/Bierkeller
Last but not least, we had to throw another suggestion (or two in there) because besides Tank and Paddle in Printworks, there also happens to be the legendary Bierkeller beer hall and the American sports and gaming bar attached it, Shooters, both of which will promise a great crowd for this title fight.
If all else has truly failed, O’Neill’s and Walkabout are just around the corner too – you’ve got to get in somewhere and you really don’t want to miss this clash.
If you were still wondering where to watch to watch the Fury vs Usyk rematch in central Manchester this Saturday, that handful of suggestions should just about do you in a pinch, just keep in mind that the earlier the better when it comes to events like this.
The two boxers are expect to begin their ring walks at around 10:25pm UK time, so you should have plenty of time to find a good spot to watch the carnage.
Featured Images — The Manc Group/TNT Sports (screenshot via YouTube) BOX (via Instagram)
What's On
Spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks display confirmed for Manchester
Daisy Jackson
Manchester will celebrate New Year’s Eve with a spectacular FREE fireworks display, the council has confirmed.
This year, the dazzling display to ring in the new year will be set off from the roof of the city’s landmark Central Library building.
Mancs will be able to gather in St Peter’s Square as the city waves goodbye to 2024 and welcomes a new year.
The family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration has never taken place at St Peter’s Square before, nor has the iconic Manchester Central library hosted any sort of fireworks display.
The fireworks spectacular and New Year countdown will take place on Tuesday 31 December between 10pm and 12.30am, hosted by local radio presenter and DJ Joe McGrath.
With a rough capacity of 20,000 people, there’ll be a festive atmosphere in the city centre – but Manchester City Council has stressed that alcohol is not permitted at the New Year’s Eve fireworks event.
Councillor Pat Karney, Christmas and New Year spokesperson for Manchester City Council, said: “If there’s something we do well in Manchester, it’s getting together for a big celebration – and there’s no better time for a big do than New Year’s Eve.
“This is the time to remember the year we’ve just had and to look ahead to the new one and all it may bring, surrounded by the people we love.
“Mancunians of all ages love a party, and this New Year’s Eve is going to be fantastic – a chance to dance the night away, with one of the biggest fireworks displays in the region for everyone to enjoy.
“All you need is your dancing shoes, party spirit and your nearest and dearest. Grab hold of those and we can’t wait to see you in St Peter’s Square for the last party of 2024.”
Spectacular New Year’s Eve firework display confirmed for Manchester. Credit: Unsplash, designecologist
There are a few things you need to know ahead of the event – attendees are asked to limit bag sizes to no larger than A4 in size, with bag searches in operation at the entrances.
It will be a standing room only event though there’ll be a managed designated accessible viewing area located on the Metrolink tram platform closest to Central Library, available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Portaloos, public toilets until 1am, and hot drinks and food will all be available on site.
Event staff will make sure St Peter’s Square is cleared promptly after the event and once the fireworks are over to minimise disruption to local residents.
Councillor Pat Karney added: “We want everyone to be able to enjoy New Year’s Eve, including the growing number of local residents who live in town.
“I will therefore be working closely with local councillors and others to ensure that we minimise any nuisance for city centre residents.”
Important road closures and event information for the New Year’s Eve fireworks in Manchester
A number of temporary but necessary traffic management measures will be put in place in the run-up to and on the day itself so the event can go ahead.
Road closures – 31 December 2024
7.30pm–2am
Peter Street westbound (Mount Street to Lower Mosley Street)
Peter Street eastbound (Deansgate to Lower Mosley Street)
Oxford Street (Peter Street to Portland Street)
George Street (Oxford Street to Dickinson Street)
St James Street (Oxford Street to Dickinson Street)
Bale Street (Lower Mosley Street to Hall Street)
Hall Street (Bale Street to Oxford Street)
9pm–2am
Lower Mosley Street (Windmill Street to St Peter’s Square)
Princess Street (Cooper Street to George Street)
Back George Street (Princess Street to Dickenson Street)
Parking suspensions from 8am on 29 December until 6am on 2 January
Peter Street (Mount Street to Lower Mosley Street)
Parking suspensions from 6pm on 30 December until 6am on 1 January
Oxford Street (Lower Mosley Street to Portland Street)
Lower Mosley Street (Windmill Street to St Peter’s Square)
Princess Street (Cooper Street to George Street)
George Street (Oxford Street to Princess Street)
Back George Street (Princess Street to Dickenson Street)
Museum Street (Windmill Street to Peter Street)
Southmill (Windmill Street to Bootle Street)
Accessible parking
Unreserved accessible event parking is available on Mount Street.
Emily Sergeant -
13th October 2023 
