Spring is in full bloom, and Manchester is packed with exciting events this April! From legendary live music and theatre to food festivals and outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone—plus plenty of ways to celebrate the Easter weekend and make the most of the four-day bank holiday. Here are Northern Group’s top picks of what’s happening in the city this month…
Freight Island Reopens for Spring & Summer!
📅 5th April – 14th Septmber
📍 Venue: Freight Island
Freight Island is back for another season of alfresco dining, summer cocktails, and live music. New food traders include Italian favourite Ornella’s Kitchen, Shaokao (Chinese BBQ) from MOREJOY, desserts from Hello Dezato, and Gooey’s signature French toast. With live music events and DJs, it’s the ultimate destination for foodies and partygoers alike. Some of the events this April include:
- BINGO LINGO, a bingo with no limits, prizes,dance battles, hilarious hosts, rave Rounds - Confetti Showers.
- HIT & RUN: CHANNEL ONE SOUND for a huge Reggae / Dub b2b Jungle / DnB show.
- DIRTY DANCING BRUNCH, a massive 'Dirty Dancing' themed Bottomless Brunch with live performances of the movie soundtracks, including all of the iconic dance scenes, huge sing-a-long moments and 90’s dance rounds with the resident DJ.
Sean Paul & Ashanti Concert
📅 Date: Saturday 20th April
📍 Venue: AO Arena
International dancehall superstar Sean Paul is bringing the heat to Manchester on his biggest UK tour yet! The Get Busy singer will be joined by R&B legend Ashanti for the Bring It Tour, promising a night of nostalgic hits and entertaining performances.
MancHagen – Eurovision Party & Festival
📅 Dates: Wednesday 10th - Saturday 13th April
📍 Location: Across Manchester
The world’s biggest Eurovision celebration outside of the official Switzerland event, MancHagen, will feature concerts, dance parties, and LGBTQIA+ events across the city, all in support of charity. If you love Eurovision, this is one event you won’t want to miss.
Palace Theatre Musicals
📅 Dates: Various throughout April
📍 Venue: Palace Theatre
For the theatre fanatics, a nostalgic experience or family day out, the Palace Theatre is hosting two iconic musicals this April. Whether you’re reliving childhood favourites or introducing them to a new generation, these fantastic productions are not to be missed:
MATILDA THE MUSICAL – The award-winning adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic returns, bringing the magic of Matilda’s story to life.
MARY POPPINS – Cameron Mackintosh and Disney’s spectacular production of the iconic nanny’s adventures is back, featuring unforgettable songs and fabulous choreography.
Rubber Ducky Records 2 Year Sinkiversary
📅 Date: Friday 26th April
📍 Venue: The Derby Brewery Arms
Two years ago, the beloved Rubber Ducky Records shop, located inside a canal barge in Manchester, sadly sank. With support from the community, Rubber Ducky Records managed an inspirational comeback and they’re celebrating with a day party at The Derby Brewery Arms, featuring DJ sets from Panorama Bar’s Nathalie Seres and more.
Manchester Marathon
📅 Date: Sunday 27th April
📍 Location: Across Manchester
One of the UK’s most loved marathons returns! Thousands of runners will take to the streets for the Manchester Marathon, and whether you’re participating or cheering from the sidelines, it’s a fantastic way to experience the city’s community spirit.
Mumford & Sons – Free Live Show
📅 Date: Tuesday 2nd April
📍 Venue: Aviva Studios
For an unforgettable night of folk-rock, Mumford & Sons will be performing an exclusive free gig at Aviva Studios as part of the Amazon Music City Sessions series. The show will also be streamed live on Prime Video and Amazon Music UK’s Twitch channel, so you can enjoy the magic from wherever you are!
Zip World at Heaton Park
📍 Venue: Heaton Park
Perfect for families, friends, or anyone looking for an adrenaline rush, Zip World Manchester at Heaton Park offers an aerial adventure with zip lines, swings, and treetop obstacle courses. A great activity day out for those looking to get outdoors this April and experience something different!
Exhibitions at the Science and Industry Museum
The Science and Industry Museum has lots going on this April to entertain the whole family, perfect to keep the kids entertained for the Spring School Holidays. There’s a range of new exhibitions including Operation Ouch! Brains, Bogies and You, Power Up and Wild Senses… Check these out for an interactive family fun day out!
Easter Egg Decorating Class - The Lowry Hotel
📅 Date: 9th April
📍 Venue: The Lowry Hotel
Get creative this Easter at The Lowry Hotel’s first-ever Kids’ Easter Egg Making Masterclass with chocolatier Oli The Choc. It’s a hands-on workshop in which children aged 6-12 design and decorate their own Easter eggs while learning chocolate-making skills from one of Manchester’s best-known experts. A unique experience for the family this Easter!
André Rieu Concert
📅 Date: Wednesday 3rd April
📍 Venue: Co-op Live
Classical music fans are in for a treat as world-renowned violinist and conductor André Rieu takes the stage at Co-op Live. Joined by his 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra, Rieu will be celebrating 200 years of Johann Strauss in a dazzling musical spectacle.
Primal Scream Concert
📅 Date: Friday 11th April
📍 Venue: Aviva Studios
The legendary Primal Scream are back! Celebrating the release of their new album Come Ahead, they’re bringing a huge live show to Manchester’s Aviva Studios as part of their UK and Ireland tour. Don’t miss this opportunity to see them live!