Our top tips for making the most of the week ahead, with brilliant things to do across the whole of Greater Manchester… For even more ideas, visit our What’s On page.

Visitors playing on the musical playground in Turn It Up The power of music Image Credit: The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum Group 

Illuminate Festival Oldham

See Oldham in a new light this week as the borough’s annual light arts festival, Illuminate, returns for its sixth year. Captivating artworks and performances will be brought to life by the imaginations of artist from across the UK. Explore the illuminated townscape from Gallery Oldham and Oldham Library, through to the historic Old Town Hall, Oldham Parish Church and on to the Queen Elizabeth Hall.

HOME Gallery Spring 2023

Featuring works that span film, photography, painting and sculpture, HOME presents three new solo exhibitions by three artists this Spring. These solo exhibitions offer an exciting opportunity to see the work of three artists at critical stages of their careers. For more information on the artists on display, visit the listing here.

Sip and paint an iconic masterpiece at MediaCity

On Saturday 18 February, enjoy a wonderful Valentine’s experience at Box on the Docks MediaCity painting Gustav Klimt‘s iconic painting The Kiss. Relax and unwind with a paintbrush in one hand and wine in the other. All materials are included and no experience is necessary. Prices start from £35.

Prioritise friendship with a Galentine or Palentine

With lots to do in Greater Manchester this Valentine’s Day, it’s important not to forget those who’s friendship means the most to you. Friends can be soul mates too, and Galentine’s or Palentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to gather your friends and celebrate how much they mean to you with a fun activity and some quality time. Luckily, Greater Manchester has plenty of fun activities to keep you and your friends entertained.

Plan your next family staycation with Transport for Wales

With February half-term just around the corner, enjoy more family time with less driving time. With Transport for Wales, Children under 16 can travel for free when accompanied by any fare paying adult. With some amazing destinations, just a stone’s throw over the border, this week could be a great time to start planning your next staycation in the scenic Welsh countryside or along the shores of the tranquil Cardigan coast.

New Opening: Manchester Museum

After a three-year closure, the much-loved Manchester Museum reopens on Saturday 18 February following a £15 million transformation adding a two-storey extension, new exhibition hall, South Asia Gallery, and Chinese Culture Gallery. Its opening exhibition, Golden Mummies of Egypt, will be a UK premiere of Manchester Museum’s first international touring exhibition – following a successful tour of the USA and China.

Book Now: Science and Industry Museum

Make some noise at the Science and Industry Museum and explore sound and music this February half term. Play, create and experiment with free drop-in activities and science shows for all ages. Add a ticket to their special exhibition Turn It Up: The power of music to discover some weird and wonderful instruments or play your way through 50 years of gaming with a visit to Power UP.