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 the big screen in Manchester 
 

Manchester Film Festival returns this week for a line-up of films from around the world. Taking place at the Odeon, Great Northern from 10-19 March, you’ll have the chance to see 6 feature film world premieres and 17 feature film UK premieres, some of which have never been screened in Manchester. With films starring Nicolas Cage, Timothy Spall, Minnie Driver and Juliet Rylance the festival is set to be a hit amongst film fans. A 5 ticket pass starts from £28.  
 

2. Treat a special lady in your life this month 
 

Mother’s Day is just around the corner and it’s time to celebrate a special lady in your life. On Sunday 19 March, we’ll celebrate mums and mother figures in all of their glory and find special ways to thank them for everything they do for us. Whether you’re celebrating a foodie, a craft lover or someone who loves a spot of luxury this Mother’s Day, we’ve rounded up some of the best events and packages across the region to give them a day that is truly memorable.  
 

3. Spanish and Latin American Film Festival 
 

Returning for its 29th year, Manchester’s annual Spanish and Latin American Film Festival ¡Viva! continues it’s run at HOME this week. The annual celebration of Spanish and Latin American cinema brings you a programme of the most exciting cinema from across the Spanish-speaking world. This year we screen 22 new feature films, including multiple UK cinema premieres, along with filmmaker Q&As, film introductions and other opportunities to get involved. 
 

4. Live Music at The Corn Exchange 
 

Thursday evenings are for live music at the Corn Exchange’s stunning Edwardian atrium. With live acoustic performances of well-known classics from professional musicians, it’s a great way to spend an evening listening to live music whilst drinking and dining with family, friends or solo in this historic building in the heart of the city. 
 

5. St Patricks Day at The Refuge 
 

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day like never before at The Refuge in Manchester. On Friday 17 March join them for a night filled with live music from a talented band, exciting performances from their DJ and an array of Irish dancers. There will also be a wide range of warm pot-pies from Great North Pie Co and of course, plenty of Guinness on tap. Tickets are free for this special night.  
 

New Opening: Diecast 
 

Diecast, a new creative neighbourhood from the team behind Ramona and The Firehouse, will take over Manchester’s largest factory and metalworks to create one of the most exciting destinations on the planet. The 5,000 capacity venue will open in phases this summer and is set to house Manchester's biggest beer garden, an open air BBQ Kitchen and following on from the acclaimed Ramona, a hotly anticipated new ‘NeoPan’ Pizzeria.  
 

Book Now: 6 Music Festival 
 

For the first time in nine years, the BBC Radio 6 Music Festival is returning to Manchester and is making the city its permanent home. The iconic weekend of performances will return to the city from Friday 24 – Sunday 26 March and is set to feature some of the station's hallmark mix of exciting new acts and ground-breaking old favourites. Tickets for each separate event will be available from 10am on Thursday 16 February, at bbc.co.uk/6musicfestival.