1. Celebrate The University of Manchester’s bicentenary
To celebrate its 200th anniversary, The University of Manchester has opened its campus for a series of events between Thursday 6 and Sunday 9 June. The Universally Manchester Festival has a packed programme of activities for all ages, including a community fair, live art performances at The Whitworth Art Gallery and a celebration day on Sunday in partnership with Manchester Histories Festival. Free and ticketed events are available..
2. Catch the cricket at Emirates Old Trafford
Emirates Old Trafford becomes the stage for another T20 double header this Friday, 7 June. Lancashire Thunder take on the Southern Vipers at 2.30pm for the Charlotte Edwards Cup, followed by Lancashire Lightning v Birmingham Bears for the Vitality Blast at 6.30pm. Enjoy a day out watching these incredible cricket matches, with standard tickets starting at £24 which give you access to both fixtures.
3. Dissect ‘hustle culture’ with comedian Romesh Ranganathan
Romesh Ranganathan: Hustle
After a sell-out tour in 2022, Romesh is back with a brand-new show examining the human condition…
Join British comedian, presenter and actor at AO Arena this Saturday, 8 June, for an evening of introspective comedy. Known for his dead-pan comedic style, Hustle has Ranganathan exploring the human condition and examining ‘hustle culture’ and if it is actually the key to career success. Standard tickets are available from £30.50.
4. Cheer on your team at the Dragon Boat Race
This weekend, 8 and 9 June, Salford Quays welcomes a vibrant celebration of culture and community. Presented by the Xinhua Chinese Association, the UK Chinese Dragon Boat Festival features dragon boat races, cultural displays and delicious food stalls. Free to attend for the general public, this festival is one for the whole family – you'll enjoy stunning performances such as lion and dragon dances, live music, folk dances and much more!
5. Dance away the afternoon at this family-friendly rave
On Sunday, 9 June, get the family’s party hats on and dance through the afternoon. A rave for the whole family, Area Manchester is hosting Big Fish Little Fish, a multi-sensory event in a real rave venue that even the littlest ones will enjoy! With swirling bubbles, confetti cannons, colourful balloons and even a snow machine, there is also a crafting space and a Baby Chill Area with a playdoh table and face painting. Guests are encouraged to show up in their best fancy dress. Standard adult tickets are available from £12.03.
You can now experience a cultural afternoon in a stunning Grade II listed building that has welcomed former Prime Ministers. Until August, book in for an Afternoon Tea at House of Books and Friends, and independent, purpose-led bookshop and cafe on a mission to combat loneliness in the community. With vegan and gluten-free alternatives, the menu serves a selection of finger sandwiches and scones. Prices start at £12 per child and £25 for adults, and you can upgrade your experience to prosecco for an extra £5. Visit House of Books and Friends to book now.
New Opening: The Cosmic Terrace at NQ64 Northern Quarter
Manchester’s favourite neon-splattered arcade bar has brought back a beer garden so you can spend your summer sipping cocktails in a galaxy far, faraway. The Northern Quarter location of NQ64 features its own Cosmic Terrace, an outdoor drinking den serving up brand new giant cocktail sharers and slushies, inspired by outer space – try out their Rocket Fuel or Frozen Margs and Frozen Daqs. The terrace will also feature a new tabletop arcade so you can engage in friendly competitions with your friends!