The May Bank Holiday weekend is the perfect excuse to get out and enjoy Manchester. From family days out and live music to markets, exhibitions, and special one-off events - there’s loads happening across the city. It doesn't matter whether you're after something relaxed or full of energy, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Manchester this Bank Holiday weekend.

Scroll down to start planning your weekend and to discover more things to do, explore our what's on page. 

Family Fun this Early May Bank Holiday

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If you’re heading out with the kids (or just want something fun and interactive), Manchester has plenty to keep all ages entertained.

At the Science and Industry Museum, Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos launches visitors into an exciting, hands-on journey through the Solar System. Expect experiments, mischief, and plenty of mind-blowing discoveries.

For a limited time this May, Planetarium Go! Manchester is an immersive 360º pop‑up dome arrives at St Peter's Square, an experience that invites people of all ages to journey through galaxies, planets and cosmic wonders, sparking curiosity and imagination through stunning visuals and inspiring, accessible storytelling.

Over at Depot Mayfield, Bubble Planet: An Immersive Experience brings a playful world of giant bubbles, VR adventures, and sensory installations - perfect for families looking for something a bit different.

Football fans shouldn’t miss Head, Shoulders, Knees & Goals at the National Football Museum, where sport meets science in an engaging, hands-on exhibition.

Meanwhile, at IWM North, Spies, Lies and Deception dives into the fascinating world of espionage, featuring real gadgets and untold stories.

Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos 24 Jun 2026 - 03 Jan 2027

An out-of-this-world premiere exhibition, now open at the Science and Industry Museum. Blast off into the Solar System on a thrilling adventure where mystery, mischief, and rocket-loads of silly science await. Visitors will: Walk in the shoes of astronauts Explore the life-giving energy of the Sun…

Bubble Planet: An Immersive Experience in Manchester 24 Jun 2026 - 27 Aug 2026

Manchester is about to get a whole lot more playful with Bubble Planet! This quirky new attraction is all about big, magical bubbles - soap bubbles, air bubbles, even virtual reality bubbles that let your imagination run free. It’s a place to explore, play, and just have fun, no matter your…

Head, Shoulders, Knees & Goals 24 Jun 2026 - 01 Nov 2026

Kids and grown-ups alike can discover the fascinating connection between football and the human body in our brand new exhibition, Head, Shoulders, Knees & Goals. Explore the science behind movement, the stories that shape identity and the joy of football fandom through hands on play, sensory…

Spies, Lies and Deception at IWM North 24 Jun 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

Imperial War Museums (IWM) invites visitors to venture into the secret world of espionage this winter with the arrival of blockbuster exhibition Spies, Lies and Deception at IWM North (29th November 2025 - 31 August 2026).    Showcasing over 60 objects including gadgets, classified…

Salford Celebrations: Making 100 years of the City status 24 Jun 2026 - 31 Aug 2026

​​​​​Salford is launching its Salford 100 celebrations on 21 April, marking a century since the city was granted official status in 1926. The anniversary kicks off a year‑long programme of free cultural and community events delivered by Walk the Plank and From The Other. April highlights include…

Visit the home of the Premier League Champions! Get behind the scenes and immerse yourself in the City story on the Manchester City Stadium Tour. Visit areas of the Stadium not usually available to the public. Using the latest technology, dreams come true as you and your loved ones sit and interact…

Winter adventures start just 50 minutes from Manchester at Chester Zoo Home to over 30,000 animals, Chester Zoo invites you to explore, unwind and reconnect this winter – with nature, each other and yourself. Explore 130 acres of immersive habitats - from dense rainforests and tropical caves…

Where rhino stomp and lions roar, the safari by the city, and so much more. Experience Manchester's wildest day out with a trip to family favourite, Knowsley Safari. Start your adventure by exploring our impressive 5-mile safari drive which is currently home to over 750 fascinating animals, from…

Manchester welcomes World-Famous Museum of Illusions to the city! Enter the fascinating world of illusions where nothing is ever quite as it seems. This highly anticipated new attraction promises a captivating experience for visitors of all ages, immersing them in a world of optical illusions and…

Step into the magic of Old Trafford and experience Manchester United like never before. This immersive museum and stadium tour throws you straight into the club's legendary story from the heroes of the Busby Babes, the historic treble season in ‘99 to memories of your favourite…

********* LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Manchester is the ultimate indoor LEGO Playground and offers an inspirational and unique day out for all the family! LEGOLAND Discovery Centres are designed specifically for children aged 3-10 years to enjoy – everything is child sized! As soon as you step…

********* Come face-to-fin with thousands of creatures at SEA LIFE Manchester, including majestic sharks, enchanting jellyfish, Ernie the magnificent green sea turtle, and so much more! Take a fascinating journey from the coast to the ocean depths through the themed zones and don’t miss the…

Reviving the gardens of the historic 156 acre Worsley New Hall estate to create RHS Garden Bridgewater represents one of the largest gardening projects in Europe at this time. Full planning permission was granted in June 2017, opening the doors to an exciting programme of development with…

Manchester Museum has been at the heart of the city’s cultural scene for more than 130 years – and is only getting better with age. As one of the UK’s biggest university museums – sat at the heart of the University of Manchester – it’s home to an incredible range…

Manchester Arts & Culture Events this May Bank Holiday

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For those seeking culture, creativity, and immersive storytelling, Manchester delivers.

Step back 4,500 years with Horizon of Khufu, an award-winning VR experience that transports you to Ancient Egypt - one of the most unique cultural events in Manchester this spring.

At Lowry, LOWRY 360 offers a free, immersive dive into L.S. Lowry’s iconic Going to the Match, surrounding you with the sights and sounds of the painting.

Science lovers will enjoy Planetarium Go! at St Peter's Square, a pop-up dome experience bringing the universe to life through 360° visuals.

Art enthusiasts can explore The Mystery of Banksy – A Genius Mind, showcasing over 200 recreated works celebrating the elusive street artist Banksy.

Horizon of Khufu Brings Ancient Egypt to Manchester 24 Jun 2026 - 28 Jun 2026

Horizon of Khufu: Journey to Ancient Egypt, an immersive virtual reality expedition back in time over 4,500 years ago, is set to make its debut in Manchester next on 2 April. This award-winning VR experience, created by Excurio and presented by Fever, offers audiences an unprecedented opportunity to…

LOWRY 360 24 Jun 2026 - 31 Dec 2026

Step inside LOWRY 360, a new FREE immersive gallery experience. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of LS Lowry’s iconic painting, Going to the Match, in the UK’s first FREE permanent immersive experience. Created in collaboration…

The Mystery of Banksy – A Genius Mind: Manchester 24 Jun 2026 - 28 Jun 2026

Dive into Banksy’s mysterious and provocative universe with The Mystery of Banksy – A Genius Mind, making its highly anticipated UK debut in Manchester. Featuring around 200 recreated works—from bold graffiti and striking photographs to clever sculptures, video installations…

Power Hall: The Andrew Law Gallery 24 Jun 2026 - 17 Oct 2026

Experience the sights, smells and sounds of the engine-driven ideas and industry that started in Manchester and went on to change the world. Rediscover your favourite engines and dive into newly revealed stories as Power Hall: The Andrew Law Gallery re-opens on 17 October 2025, following a major…

Live Music in Manchester this May Bank Holiday

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Manchester’s music scene never slows down - and the Bank Holiday weekend is no exception.

At Manchester Cathedral, Luminiscence UK transforms the historic venue into a stunning blend of light, sound, and choral music, celebrating iconic Manchester tracks in a completely new way.

You can also explore free live music across the city centre at the Fitzgerald, the Freemount, Blues Kitchen, Matt and Phreds, and Mulligans.

Introducing The Fitzgerald 03 Feb 2026 -
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Introducing The Fitzgerald

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Tucked just off Stevenson Square, you'll find The Fitzgerald. Inspired by the secret drinking spots of the Prohibition era, The Fitzgerald is a setting built for listening. A discreet entrance and darkened staircase open into an intimate, low-lit room where 1920s glamour frames the experience…

Manchester May Day Markets & Festivals

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Nothing says Bank Holiday like great food, local markets, and festivals.

Fields to Fork Festival returns to Whitebottom Farm with a weekend of live-fire cooking, artisan produce, and countryside vibes - ideal for food lovers.

For something more alternative, Sounds From The Other City takes over Salford, showcasing emerging music and grassroots creativity across unique venues.

And if you’re after a relaxed, community feel, May Day at Forever Fields offers a free celebration of music, dance, and local traditions.

Don’t forget Campfield Market, a weekly hotspot blending independent traders, street food, and a European-style food hall atmosphere in Manchester’s St John’s neighbourhood.

Campfield Market 27 Jun 2026 - 26 Dec 2026

Campfield Market at St John’s Manchester’s biggest weekly artisan market has arrived. Following a hugely successful first six months, welcoming over 50,000 visitors, Campfield Market now expands beyond the iconic glass roof hall and out into the surrounding neighbourhood. In partnership…

Manchester May Bank Holiday Fun

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If your perfect Bank Holiday involves great food and a bit of indulgence, Manchester won’t disappoint.

Enjoy a lively bottomless brunch at Zouk Tea Bar & Grill, known for its atmosphere and generous sharing platters. For something more refined, head to The Cut & Craft for a Champagne and Whispering Angel brunch experience - ideal for celebrating in style.

Alternatively, savour Northern-inspired dishes at Manchester Marriott Victoria & Albert Hotel Restaurant, where comfort food meets locally sourced ingredients.

Theatre lovers can round off the weekend with Bank of Dave The Musical at The Lowry, a feel-good production packed with humour and Northern charm.

Bottomless Brunch at Zouk 27 Jun 2026 - 26 Dec 2026

Zouk's popular Bottomless Brunch returns with a selection of new dishes and fabulous sharing platters. Available from 11:00 to 4:30pm every Saturday with the last sitting starting at 3:00pm. The brunch offers diners the chance to enjoy any main course and unlimited drinks from the bottomless…

Weekend Brunch at The Restaurant at Manchester Marriott Victoria & Albert Hotel 27 Jun 2026 - 27 Dec 2026

Brunch, But Make It Northern Inspired by good ol’ Northern favourites, bringing together familiar flavours, local produce and refined comfort food with a distinctly Northern influence. Served from 12-5pm every Saturday and Sunday. Rooted in honest, the menu showcases standout dishes like…

Explore Manchester This May Bank Holiday

From immersive exhibitions and family attractions to live music, markets, and unforgettable food experiences, Manchester is bursting with things to do this Early May Bank Holiday. Whether you’re exploring with friends, family, or flying solo, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the long weekend.

Start planning now - and make it a Bank Holiday to remember.

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