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. 
 

1. Celebrate Manchester’s beer mile with Cloudwater Brew Co
  

On Saturday 13 May, Cloudwater Brew Co are collaborating and celebrating the Piccadilly East part of the Manchester Beer Mile, alongside neighbours Sureshot, Balance and Track, with a multi-venue party as they all host Block 2023 Beer Festival. Each taproom will be inviting a guest brewery, an independent food vendor, and  live DJs to celebrate Manchester’s thriving brewing scene. Entry is free to attend. 
 

2. World (and TikTok!) famous cat show comes to Trafford 
 

A huge two-day event celebrating all things feline is heading to Bowlers Exhibition Centre this week. On Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 May, visitors will be able to see a variety of cat breeds, with plenty of entertainment and activities for cat lovers of all ages. Visitors can enjoy cat-themed merchandise, attend cat care and behaviour talks, and even adopt a furry friend from one of the many rescue organizations in attendance. Tickets start from £14. 
 

3. Explore a historic Manchester landmark in one of Europe’s largest municipal parks 
 

Heaton Park Hall are throwing open their doors, allowing visitors to explore the historic 250-year-old landmark. On Sunday 14 May, visitors can explore the beautiful architecture, learn about the hall's fascinating history, and enjoy the stunning gardens. Their dedicated friends group will also be on hand to answer any of your questions. The hall will be open from 12-4pm and admission is free. 
 

4. Award-winning Canadian poet brings their gastro-themed show to Oldham 
 

Award-winning Canadian poet (and food lover!) Rose Condo takes their show to Gallery Oldham this week. On Thursday 11 May, Condo explores feeding one’s inner artist while preparing and serving their audience a selection of food. Audience members will receive ‘Starving Artist Kits’ to help inspire individual creativity, and will be treated to a special guest performance by acclaimed Salford poet, Kieren King. Tickets start from £6. 
 

5. Watch a world-renowned violinist at the AO Arena 
 

Violin superstar André Rieu brought classical music closer to millions worldwide and made the Waltz an international sensation. After the success of his 2022 tour through the UK and Ireland, he announced his new concert dates for 2023. But since the demand for his fantastic shows is that high, he will also be visiting the AO Arena on Friday 12 May. Tickets for the show start from £81. 
 

Book Now: Manchester Jazz Festival 
 

Manchester Jazz Festival is back this May with 10 days of live music (19-28 May) from some of the best northern, national and international musicians operating in the world of contemporary jazz. First staged in the summer of 1996, Manchester Jazz Festival holds the crown of being Manchester's longest-running music festival. Highlights this year include Eliades Ochoa from Buena Vista Social Club, Mica Millar, Hot 8 Brass Band and Billy Cobham. Tickets start from £35. 
 

Book Now: La Clique 
 

Trailblazing cabaret club La Clique, will come to Manchester for their very first north of England residency this summer, with a six-week run starting Thursday 25 May. Setting up camp in a spectacular Spiegeltent venue on the rooftop of Depot Mayfield, Manchester will welcome tension strap artist LJ Marles, singer Chastity Belt, aerial contortion artist Miranda Menzies, comedy and stunt performer Sam Goodburn, and more artists to be announced very soon. Tickets start from £19.50.