1. Step into the Matrix and discover a new reality
 

The much-anticipated opening of Factory International is finally here! Head over to Aviva Studios and watch an incredible dance performance directed by Danny Boyle (Trainspotting, Slumdog Millionaire). Free Your Mind is an adaptation of the cult classic films of The Matrix franchise and was commissioned especially by Factory International to show audiences what the venue is capable of. Tickets from £10.
 

2. Celebrate the best of Folk music in the Northern Quarter
 

The Northern Quarter will see a line-up of talented, international artists between 19 and 21 October with the Manchester Folk Festival. Artists such as The Breath and Get Cape. Wear Cape will headline iconic venues including Band on the Wall and New Century Hall bringing the best of contemporary folk music. There are a limited number of wristbands available, or you can purchase tickets to individual events here.
 

3. Discover the Portico Library’s most fascinating books
 

One of Manchester’s best hidden gems, the Portico Library, has launched a new exhibition which will run until 25 January 2024. Bookends and Beginnings is a compilation of stories from the volunteers about their favourite books in the library’s extensive collection, including a first edition Shirley by Charlotte Brontë. You can also head to the Reading Area and explore a selection of nineteenth-century books. Admission to the exhibition is free.
 

4. Festive shopping season kicks off in Tatton Park
 

Don’t leave your gift shopping until the last minute this festive season. Find unique, handmade items at Tatton Park’s Autumn Artisan Gift Fair this weekend, 21 and 22 October, inside the Mansion’s Tenants Hall. Local traders will be selling jewellery, crafts and baked goods so make sure you don’t miss out on the opportunity to find the perfect gifts for friends, family or even yourself! Entry to the fair is free. 
 

5. Manchester, we have a re-launch... at Jodrell Bank
 

Head to Jodrell Bank Observatory, just under an hour from Manchester, before 10 December to catch a series of stellar events. Their Autumn Dome Show CAP COM GO! shows the first moon landing in a way you’ve never experienced before. Relive the NASA Apollo 11 mission in this 25-minute film that is suitable for astronauts of all ages. Tickets for the show are available as an add-on to general admission.
 

Book now: I Should Be So Lucky at Opera House
 

Coming to the Manchester Opera House, I Should Be So Lucky opens on the 2 November and features classic pop anthems such as I Should Be So Lucky by Kylie Minogue and Never Gonna Give You Up by Rick Astley. This romantic comedy comes from the genius of Stock Aitken Waterman and is directed by Debbie Isitt (Nativity!) and choreographed by Jason Gilkison (Strictly Come Dancing). Get your tickets to this hilarious pop musical here.
 

New Opening: House of Fu
 

Opening this Saturday, 20 October, is the second location of popular ramen and karaoke venue House of Fu. Following on from the Leeds site, they arrive in Manchester with homemade gyoza, classic ramen recipes with a twist and with their Hello Music Lounge in the basement, where you can find an inspired cocktail menu, weekend DJ sets and a sake and wine list.