Top 3: Manchester Science Festival 2016 inc. a sleep lab & how to win at gambling

Returning for its tenth year in October is the Manchester Science Festival. Produced by MSI (formerly MOSI), it aims to showcase recent scientific advancements in fun and accessible ways. More than 100 events populate the programme over eleven days, taking place at the Museum and other venues throughout the city. Our three favourite events are listed below:

The Chronarium Sleep Lab
One of the festival’s headline events, this is the UK premiere of ‘The Chronarium’ from the design company Loop.ph. It is a ‘public sleep laboratory’, which aims to transform the Arndale Centre into a haven for relaxation and wellbeing. People can lie back and rest in hanging swings, while an audio-visual experience helps reset their circadian rhythms for more harmonious sleep. Visitors should book on the day of their visit, at the venue.
Thu 20 Oct – Sun 30 Oct, Manchester Arndale, Market Street, Manchester M4 1AZ, 11am -8pm (Mon-Fri), FREE, www.manchestersciencefestival.com

The Science of Gambling with Guardian Live
This cabaret-style show, taking place at Manchester235 casino in the Great Northern, explores the different scientific aspects of gambling. It is part of the festival’s evening programme, and is presented in association with Guardian Live. Local mathematician Katie Steckles will crunch the numbers to look at the probability of winning different games. Niki Ray, a neuroscientist, will explain what goes on inside your head, and the reliability of luck. Revealing some secrets of success, including body language and bluffing, will be psychologist Paul Seager. Black-tie dress is optional, but encouraged. The event is 18+ and booking is required.
Sat 22 Oct, Manchester235 Casino, The Great Western, 2 Watson Street, Manchester, M3 4LP, 7-9pm, £12, www.manchestersciencefestival.com

Menus Made by Microbes: Street Food
No big event in Manchester would be complete without street food, so at the Runaway Brewery they will be serving some with a science-y bent. Many of the foods we enjoy owe their production to microorganisms, so Manchester Metropolitan University’s biologists have teamed up with street food events company Grub MCR to showcase this. Some of the city’s best food stalls will be presenting some biologically brewed-up treats.
Wed 26 Oct, The Runaway Brewery, 4 Millgate, Dantzic Street, Manchester, M4 4JW, 7.30-9.30pm, £20, www.manchestersciencefestival.com