As the days grow longer and warmer, the month of May brings a burst of energy and excitement to Manchester. With more outdoor activities, festivals and the weather improving, there’s even more to fun to be had! Whether you're a local looking for new experiences or a visitor keen to explore all that Manchester has to offer, join us as we explore Northern Group’s top picks of what's on in the city this May. And make sure to immerse yourself in the activities and entertainment you love to create some unforgettable moments that embrace the spirit of Manchester.
Women of the World (WOW) Festival @ Aviva Studios
Over two days and three evenings, WOW - the world’s biggest, most comprehensive festival celebrating women, girls and non-binary people, will bring together inspiring speakers, including Australia’s first woman Prime Minister Julia Gillard, actors Maxine Peake and Zawe Ashton, Manchester legend DJ Paulette, ex Spice Girl and Women Aid patron Mel B, author Chimene Suleyman, and activist Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe to find solutions to the pressing issues of gender inequality and celebrate the achievements of women, girls and non-binary people both in the Northwest and globally. Whether you're looking to connect with like-minded individuals, gain new insights, or simply celebrate the resilience and diversity of women, the Women of the World Festival is not to be missed.
Disney’s Aladdin @ Palace Theatre
Taking centre stage at the iconic Palace Theatre, from May 26th to June 18th, is a theatre production of Disney's Aladdin! From May 26th to June 18th breathtaking sets, dazzling costumes, and unforgettable musical numbers including "A Whole New World" and "Friend Like Me," will tell an adaptation of the renowned story of the 1992 animated Disney film. The show has been on a record-breaking run on Broadway and The West End and will be visiting Manchester for the first time! Don’t miss out on an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages.
Candlelight Spring Concerts
In iconic, atmospheric venues across Manchester, Candlelight Concerts will be hosting multiple captivating concerts throughout May, including Candlelight Jazz: A Tribute to Nina Simone, Candlelight Spring: Sci-Fi and Fantasy Film Scores & The Best of the Beatles, A Night at the Opera, A Tribute to Queen and Abba, Vivaldi’s Four Seasons plus more! The shows are orchestra renditions of the some of the biggest hits, illuminated by candlelight, creating an unforgettable experience.
Ducie Street Warehouse Events
There are a wide range of events taking place at Ducie Street Warehouse this May! Located in the heart of Manchester, near to Piccadilly Station, the easily accessible venue is perfect for hosting events with a large bar, lounge and restaurant, deli counter, outdoor seating area, takeaway shop, and mini cinema it’s the ultimate all-day space to socialise, eat, drink, and enjoy what’s on. The events in May include, Life Drawing with Hop, a Eurovision Final showcasing, Coffee & Poems, Disco Brunch Party, Cinema Nights, plus many more!
Women’s Euro Party @ Fairfield Social Club
Cheer on the Lionesses in the UEFA Women's European qualifiers against France, at the fabulous new arts and culture venue just off Angel Meadows Park! From the team behind GRUB, this neighbourhood social club will be hosting a range of events in their large outdoor areas and stylishly designed sheds to drink, socialise, and taste their street food menu, it’s the perfect spring/summer hang-out. Don’t miss a great chance to experience the venue in full swing at the Women’s Euro Party on the 31st May!
Oast House Mani-Fest
The free-to-attend Spring and Summer music festivals at Oast House in Spinningfields are back for 2024 with two dates in May! Mani-Fest will host a range of different artists and DJ’s so guests can enjoy genres such as rock, pop, soul, R&B, funk, disco and blues, as well as delicious street food and flowing drinks throughout the first and last weekend of May. Mani-Fest is always popular and attract lots of people so make sure to get their early if you don’t want to queue!
AJ BELL Great Manchester Run
The highly anticipated Great Manchester Run is returning this May on Sunday the 26th! A highlight on the city's sporting calendar, this renowned event invites participants to race along the streets of Manchester, Trafford, and Salford in a showcase of athleticism and community spirit. Whether you're a seasoned runner aiming for a personal best or a first-time participant seeking to embrace the exhilarating atmosphere, the Great Manchester Run offers something for everyone. The 10k race is the largest of it’s type in Europe and the whole event is the third largest mass participation running event on the UK, behind the North Run and the London Marathon. Whether you’re coming to support and soak in the atmosphere or taking part, it’s always a fun family friendly event that thousands of people enjoy every year.
Colony Events
Colony Coworking Spaces, dotted around prime locations in Manchester, are a network of flexible workspaces in Manchester that accommodate creatives, entrepreneurs, freelancers, start-ups, and established companies. They also host a large range of events in their stunning spaces, that are often open to the public to attend. Events this May include, Creative Speed Dating, Sunrise Yoga, Origins Short Film Night plus more!
Boogie Wit Da Hoodie @ Co-Op Live
The first full capacity concert at the Co-op Live is taking place on Wednesday 1st May with ‘Boogie wid da Hoodie’ performing to around 23,000 people as the Co-op Live opens its doors for the second time after their opening test gig with Rick Astley and Friends. This event is highly anticipated after Peter Kay and The Black Keys being cancelled towards the end of April. Other gigs at the Co-op Live during May include Olivia Rodrigo, Keane, and local legends Peter Kay and Take That!