The weatherman keeps speaking ominously of impending storms, rain and wind that are to hit next week, but as he tries to suck out every ounce of optimism let’s at least take the weekend to have a bit of fun. These are a bunch of freebies, meaning you won’t even have to spend a dime before doomsday kicks in. Score!
Levenshulme Market (pictured)
Mancunion markets aren’t exactly hard to come by, but few have garnered as much respect as the Levy Market. Catering for loyal locals and visitors who have eagerly travelled from much further afield, Levenshulme Market actually has it all. The list of this weekend’s traders reads like a very near-complete A-Z, with everything from South American food from Arepa Arepa Arepa and vegan cupcakes from Captain Cakeman to baked treats from Pudding and Pie Café. There’s also stuff from Trove, who won big at this year’s Manchester Food and Drink Awards. Yes, a visit here will leave you wanting for no more, and the only letters not covered on Saturday’s agenda are just the silly ones like X and Z.
Sat 26 Oct, Levenshulme Train Station Cat Park, 10am – 4pm, FREE entry www.facebook.com
Pop-up Drinks Emporium at Corn Exchange
We’ve already mentioned this one, but it’s just a little too good not to bring up again. The historic Corn Exchange houses a number of sad, empty lots, but this weekend it’s being brought back to life with various pop-up bars from the likes of RosyLee Tea Rooms, Vermillion Cinnabar, The Ducie Bridge, The Blue Pig and – like a phoenix rising from the ashes – former NQ fave Socio Rehab. Entry to the area is free, and the mall will be overhauled to create a ‘festival’ feel, with DJ stage and central seating area, meaning that even if you don’t opt for a drink the whole shebang is at least worth a look.
Thu 24 – Sun 27 Oct, Corn Exchange, Exchange Square, M4 3TR, Tel: 0161 834 8961, Fri: 5pm – 8pm, Sat – Sun: 12pm – 4pm, FREE entry, www.cornexchangemanchester.co.uk
Travel in Time at Oldham Town Centre
Doctor Who could probably be considered as one of Britain’s best national treasures. From Tom Baker’s trademark woolly scarves to the strange and surprising crushes that the central role slot often rouses among viewers, it’s gone from strength to strength. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the popular television programme, Oldham’s Town Centre is hosting a series of free events, including the Town Centre Time Lord Trail and a week-long exhibition at Tommyfield Market. Episodes of Doctor Who will also be screened at Oldham Small Cinema on the hour, every hour – perfect either for nostalgia or initiating those unfamiliar with the tantalising world of the tardis.
Sat 26 Oct – Sat 2 Nov, Oldham Town Centre, OL1, Various times, FREE, www.visitoldham.com
Wikipedia Editing Day at MadLab
Okay, hear us out, as this one’s not technically free, but we figured it sounded like a worthy wildcard. As part of Manchester Science Festival, Manchester Girl Geeks are holding an introduction to editing Wikipedia, aiming to shift the imbalance of female contributors to the popular website that so many people use on a daily basis. Helpers from Wikimedia UK will be on board to give advice to those looking to take the plunge in the world of Wiki editing, as well as to those who may have already dabbled. The session will cost just £3, but that includes lunch. So it’s basically free…
Sun 27 Oct, MadLab, 36-40 Edge Street, M4 1HN, £3, 11am – 5pm, www.manchestersciencefestival.com
- Words:
- Jess Hardiman
- Published on:
- Fri 25 Oct 2013
