Finally, the first bank holiday of 2015 has rolled around! Great news for those who can lark around for four days; bad news for us as we try and work out how you’ll be entertained for double the usual weekend innings. But the BEST news is that we’ve done it, and we’ve done a pretty neat job. You’re welcome.
Guerrilla Eats
This one-off Thursday special launches the Easter weekend with a gastro bang. Along with off-the-hook Chinese scran from Mei Mei’s Street Cart and eccentric ice cream choices from Ginger’s Comfort Emporium, you’ll also be able to get your fill from Fat Annie’s, Nasi Lemak and Barnhouse Bistro. There’s even a special Bangers and Bacon chef’s table with guest chef Robert Owen Brown – but that one’s not free, so… as you were.
Thu 2 Apr, The Wonder Inn, 29 Shudehill, M4 2AF, 5pm – late, FREE, www.facebook.com
Crossroads at Oddest
Crossroads is Oddest’s new acoustic night, hosted by three-piece alternative indie band and Manc favourites Some Kind of Illness. Its debut outing welcomes to the stage a hefty line up of Rachel Ferguson, John Lowndes, Mark Corrin, Imogen Hoyle, Jonty Brindley and more, along with a special appearance from the hosts themselves. And if you just can’t get enough, Oddest is hosting a whole weekend of free Easter festivities – read our full preview here.
Thu 2 Apr, Oddest, 414-416 Wilbraham Road, M21 0SD, 7.30 – 10.30pm, FREE, www.oddestbar.co.uk
Popup Bikes Jumble Sale
As it’s the first Saturday of the month, Popup Bikes’ jumble sale is also kicking off this weekend. Housed in the lovely setting of Manchester’s original cycle cafe, it’s a haven for vintage bikes, used and cheap modern bikes, old bike parts, rare bike parts, bike-related paraphernalia and people chatting about bikey-type stuff. And with no charge for vendors or visitors, it’s a freebie hit for all concerned.
Sat 4 Apr, Arch 5, Corporation Street, M4 4DG, 11am – 4pm, FREE, www.facecbook.com
Spinfest (pictured)
Spinfest returns to the Oast House courtyard, transforming Spinningfields into a huge celebration of city living and homegrown talent. With sponsors Bulleit bourbon and Red Stripe on board to plow you with cocktails and beers, along with a whole bunch of great local live bands, this one looks set to tick all the boxes whether the sun decides to make an appearance or not.
Sun 5 Apr, The Oast House, The Avenue, Spinningfields, 12pm – late, FREE, www.theoasthouse.co.uk
Vintage Swing Festival
Step back in time to the good old days, as The Printworks hosts its 12th annual Vintage Swing Festival. Think live music from four-piece 50s inspired band The Revolutionaires, jive dancing demos from Krazy Karen and Gypsy John from The Cinque Port Lindy Hoppers, along with market stalls selling vintage clothing and crafts. And on top of all that, a display of seriously handsome vintage vehicles including a Ford Zephyr and a 1949 Chevrolet pick-up truck.
Sun 5 Apr, The Printworks, 27 Withy Grove, M4 2BS, 12pm – 4pm, Free, www.theprintworks.com
Eighty Six at The Beagle
The Beagle recently renovated its terrace space, encapsulating it in versatile floor-to-ceiling windows that can either protect you from the volatile springtime weather or be thrown open should the sun come out to play. Luckily, then, all eventualities are seen to as the Eighty Six DJs make their way back to the Chorlton pub for another beautiful bank holiday Sunday soundtrack, this time with special guest and all-round nice guy Duncan Sime (Red Deer Club).
Sun 5 Apr, The Beagle, 456-458 Barlow Moor Road, Chorlton, M21 0BQ, 4pm – late, FREE, www.facebook.com
Know of any good freebies coming up? Email jess at manchesterwire dot co dot uk with the deets.
- Words:
- Jess Hardiman
- Published on:
- Wed 1 Apr 2015
