Free things to do this weekend ft comedy, Xmas markets & Dr Who at 50

That precocious little John Lewis ad has crawled its way onto our screens, and this means that Christmas has begun to creep its way into our lives. To celebrate this, the C word features on this week’s roundup – but to avoid festivities becoming neither premature nor hysterical, we’ve also included some completely non-festive events (bah humbug!) that should be funny enough to make up for THAT advert.

Comedy Spectacular at People’s History Museum
As part of their POLLfest celebrations, a series of events and activities exploring the funny side of politics, the People’s History Museum is hosting a Comedy Spectacular event. First on the jam-packed itinerary is a Politics Show Off, an open mic where performers are given seven minutes to show what they’re made of before the buzzer goes off. Afterwards enjoy spontaneous comedy theatre from London-based improv act Do Not Adjust Your Stage (pictured), before the night concludes with comedian, comedy writer and columnist Gráinne Maguire and her One Hour All Night Election Special.
Sun 17 Nov, People’s History Museum, Left Bank, Spinningfields, M3 3ER, 4pm – 8pm, FREE (booking required), www.phm.org.uk

Manchester Christmas Markets
Finally it’s that time of year again, where we can ease ourselves into the festive season by eating, drinking and shopping at one of the many markets popping up around Manchester. They’re free to roam, but there’s also so much more to be gained in terms of freebies (and not just in terms of cheese samples). Keep eyes peeled for deals and offers from participating stalls and businesses, as well as launch parties this weekend. In particular, check out the grand opening of the Castlefield Victorian Christmas Markets, which will feature festive drinks, music, magicians and dancing.
Opens Fri 15 Nov, Various locations and opening times, FREE entry, www.manchester.gov.uk

Wet Feet Dr Who special
Back to comedy now with a one-off Wet Feet special, which is taking on a twist of tardis-like proportions. As part of the Who at 50 celebrations, Lass O’Gowrie plays host to the unique comedy night that lets new acts dip their feet into the industry with short 10 minute sets, while more established comedians are given a platform to test new material. The event will also feature an improvised set based on Dr Who suggestions made by the audience, which will no doubt make Who’s birthday bash take some pretty unexpected turns.
Sun 17 Nov, Lass O’Gowrie, 36 Charles Street, M1 7DB, 8.30pm – 10pm, FREE, www.wegottickets.com