There are plenty of great things to get involved in this week that won’t hurt your wallet following the bumper bank holiday antics.
From the exciting launch of a Hip Hop Chess Club over in Salford to DJ sets that’ll keep you grooving until the early hours, here’s our round-up of the best free things to do in Manchester this week…
This Thursday marks the exciting debut launch of the Hip Hop Chess Club at Y2 Cafe in Salford’s buzzing Bexley Square.
This isn’t your typical chess night, as attendees can expect a vibrant, laid-back atmosphere soundtracked by the very best hip hop beats, bringing a fresh vibe to the age-old classic pastime.
Whether you’re a beginner learning the basics or a seasoned player planning your next big checkmate, this is a space to play, learn, and level up.
Entry is free, and so are the refreshments on arrival, thanks to collaborations with MOTH Cocktails, Vinca Wines, and Smiling Wolf, for anyone who prefers an alcohol-free option.
Factory Remix is a series of showcases featuring the artistic talents within the Factory International team. Enjoy an evening of music from the venue’s Front of House team featuring Phia Sky, Chain for the City, Evie Moran and Hannah for The Zero Hour – a showcase of their original songs curated by Charlie Lewin.
Swing by the sprawling Freight Island this Saturday for a full-on day-to-night party led by electronic dance music performer Bestley spinning luscious grooves, Disco, House, and everything in between. Joining Bestley are Mr Doris, Guy Williams and Mixstress, so you know it’s going to be a good one.
End the week right down in Stockport’s Bruk, where you can catch Sileni, an artist whose music has been a key influence on the whole Microfunk movement, take to the decks.
With releases on some of the most iconic left-field D&B & electronica labels, Chris Sileni has been known since the early 2000s for his skittering percussion, fractured breaks and experimental sound design, alongside a distinct minimalism that later evolved into his Xen Chron alias.
Joining him will be Enuui, carrying the Exegene Records lineage, and Synkro & Bop with a special b2b set.
- Words:
- Rhiannon Ingle
- Published on:
- Mon 4 May 2026
This Tuesday, Rare Cuts will be presenting a cracking New Age vs Old World event at Band on the Wall.
The evening will spotlight unique performances that feature a steady blend of acoustic and electronic music from a range of artists, including Khadija, Albie Shaw-White, Mr Guy and many more.