The remainder of Covid-19 restrictions in England have now been removed and you should take a personal approach to your Covid-19 safety and the safety of others around you. However, please remember that in certain settings, such as on TfGM Metrolink trams, face coverings are still a requirement, and other venues may politely request you to wear a face covering and practice social distancing for the time being.       


 

1. Manchester Food and Drink Festival returns 

The much-loved Manchester Food and Drink Festival is back for its 24th year, with a line-up of events, workshops and of course, food and drink from Thursday 16 to Monday 27 September. The festival runs at venues across the city, with the main Festival Hub taking residence in Cathedral Gardens. This week’s events include a wide range of food market stalls; music from Mr Wilson’s Second Liners, The Lottery Winners and Flat Cap Brass; and the Wine and Fizz Festival (17/18 September) at Hallé St Peters. There are both free and ticketed events, and table booking at Festival Hub to dine at one of the pop-up restaurants is recommended.   
 

2. Ripples of Hope Festival starts at HOME
 

An inspiring weekend of conversations, workshops and performances comes to HOME on the 15-19 September with the Ripples of Hope festival. A range of events take place both in-person and virtually across the weekend, including talks with leading figures such as former US Secretary of State Hilary Rodham Clinton and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Kailash Satyarthi. Leaders from across Greater Manchester’s cultural sector will also join talks on topics including the environment, social equality, human rights, and justice. Tickets are now available to book online. 
 

3.  Enjoy dining and weekly live music at the Corn Exchange 
 

Celebrating its sixth anniversary, the Corn Exchange Manchester has introduced The Thursday Night Lives – bringing live entertainment every week to the venue. Diners will be treated to the best of local live musicians playing a selection of well-known songs, and can be heard in the Corn Exchange’s Atrium, home to the new Garten Bar, as well as restaurant favourites including the Delhi House Café, Mowgli, Pho, Gino D'Acampo, Vapianos and Banyans Bar & Kitchen. 
 

4. Become King or Queen of the Jungle at the new I’m A Celebrity Jungle Challenge  
 

Tackle the high wire and experience the tasks and trials of ITV’s hit show I’m A Celebrity, with the adrenaline-filled experience I’m A Celebrity… Jungle Challenge at Salford Quays. The experience welcomes action-seekers over the age of eight to try out a series of tasks including rock climbing, zip wire, and Europe’s only indoor roller glider – compete with your friends to find who will be crowned King or Queen of the jungle!  
 

5. Explore Manchester’s Craft Beer hotspots with a special tour and tasting 
 

Experience the best craft beers made in Manchester with a three-hour guided tour of hotspots around the city, led by Craft Beer Tour Manchester – experts in brewing. Visit four venues, including Manchester-based microbreweries and specialist craft beer bars, an expert will talk you through each beer explaining full details behind the taste, the history, the process, and the ingredients – and includes the tasting of 10 craft beers. Tickets can be booked online from £35. 
 

+ Book Now: Medieval Manchester Festival marks 600th anniversary of Chetham’s Library 
 

A family-friendly festival featuring live music, food, drink and medieval entertainment will celebrate the 600th anniversary of Manchester’s oldest building, and the oldest public library in the UK – Chetham’s Library. The two-day festival on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 September celebrates the medieval buildings that date back to 1421 with events including performances from Horrible Histories, music from young Chetham’s School of Music performers, and activities also at The Stoller Hall. Entry to the festivities start at £3 and can be pre-booked online.