The Lunar New Year is soon approaching, and Manchester is ready for the celebrations with the red lanterns already adorning the streets. Between 7-11 February, there will be plenty of activities for you to enjoy, including workshops at Manchester Museum, a fair filled with food and games in Market Street, face painting and entertainment at Central Library. Chinatown will be the heart of the celebrations with a funfair and live performances.  

The mesmerising 175ft dragon will then snake through the city on Sunday as the Dragon Parade brings Chinese Opera performers, Lion and Ribbon dancers, and plenty more characters to celebrate the Year of the Dragon. All public celebrations are free to attend.

Did you know seahorses have markings that are unique to each one – kind of like humans have fingerprints? You can learn many more facts like this at the Seahorse Hotel in SEA LIFE Manchester, where you can join an interactive trail, design your own Seahorse, and even take some photos! Entry to the event is included with standard admission, so you can explore the whole aquarium during your visit, including the Shark Shipwreck and the Ocean Tunnel. Book in advance from £18.50 per adult. 

If you’ve not yet discovered one of the cutest spots in Greater Manchester, then get your farm boots on and head to Oldham this weekend! From Saturday, 10 February, the team at Cockfields Farm are throwing a Barnyard Baby Bash to celebrate the arrival of new-born, lambs, chicks and ducklings. Bring the whole family and ‘Learn to be a Farmer’ with plenty of talks, activities and demonstrations, along with a naming competition. The event is on until 25 February, with an extra cuddly Cuddle Corner, a crèche for 2 baby cows and plenty of other outdoor activities. Tickets start from £13.95 for children, £6.95 for adults.

Give your little pirates the experience of a lifetime by joining a treasure hunt aboard the Isabella this weekend. The Irwell Pirates need all the help they can get to retrieve the Mermaids treasure from Billy Bones, and as the family joins this Pirates Kids Cruise from Manchester River Cruises, they’ll take part in singalongs and activities led by Pirate Skai. There’ll be even snacks for the kids and a ‘Shiver me Timbers’ rum punch for the adults. Mermaids and pirates' tickets start from £10, and £12 for the Old Seadogs. 

Whether you’re a seasoned NFL fan, or just a super dedicated Swiftie, this Sunday, 11 February, you’re probably going to be glued to your TV. Hard Rock Cafe at The Printworks know this, so they’ve planned a Super Bowl viewing party with some classic American snacks and exciting competitions to celebrate. Book your table from £24.95 per person (minimum 2 people).