Free things to do this week ft. Aleppo, Kulning + more

What Is Aleppo? At Rethink Rebuild Society
The crisis in Aleppo has been in the news a lot this past week, with horrifying stories and images pouring out of the city and onto our screens. Like many, you might not have a firm grasp on the situation there, what caused it and what needs to happen next: But these are some of questions that will be tackled at Syrian community project Rethink Rebuild Society this Monday, in a special talk and Q&A session. Book a place using the Eventbrite link below.
Mon 19 Dec, Rethink Rebuild Society, Unit 7, Longsight Business Park, Hamilton Road, M13 0PD. 7pm – 9pm, www.eventbrite.co.uk

Winter Songs at The Castle
Two spoken word institutions are teaming up this Monday night for a festive extravaganza. First Draft and The Real Story are coming together for Kulning – named after a traditional Swedish herding call – a night where writers are paired up with musicians to create something unique, existing somewhere between song and poetry. There’s even the promise of a little carol singing to steel yourself in the run up to Christmas.
Mon 19 Dec, The Castle Hotel, 66 Oldham Street, Manchester, M4 1LE. 7.30pm – 10.30pm, www.facebook.com

Last Day of Christmas Markets
The sprawling winter markets have been running all month, but this Tuesday is your last opportunity to grab gifts and gluhwein before the stalls are shuttered until December 2017. See our full preview for more information.
Until Tue 20 Dec,, Albert Square, Brazennose Street, St Ann’s Square, Exchange Street, New Cathedral Street, The Corn Exchange, King Street, Market Street, Exchange Square, Cathedral Gardens, Tel: 0161 234 5000, 10am – 8pm (Bars until 9pm), www.manchester.gov.uk

Vivarium Tour at Manchester Museum
Manchester Museum’s vivarium opens up for tours once a month, and you can catch the last tour of the year this Thursday. The vivarium boasts and impressive collection of live amphibians and reptiles that can otherwise only be seen in the furthest reaches of Australia and South America. The tour tells you a little bit about each of the animals in the collection, as well as information on the vital research and conservation work done through the museum.
Thu 22 Dec, Manchester Museum, The University Of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL. Tel: 0161 275 2648, 12pm – 1pm, www.eventbrite.com

Last Day of Miracle on Edge Street (pictured)
This Friday is your last chance to grab a drink in this kitschy seasonal pop-up bar from the minds behind The Pen & Pencil. With themed cocktails and a range of craft beers on offer, it’s the ideal refuge as you polish off the last of the Christmas shopping. See our full preview for more details.
Until Fri 23 Dec, Miracle on Edge Street, 36-40 Edge Street, Manchester, M4 1HN. 4pm – late (Wed-Fri only), www.twitter.com