Free things to do this weekend ft. Biological Hermeutics, Clownfest + more

Biological Hermeutics at Chetham’s Library
This Friday evening you can catch this unique discussion and exhibition of an old text, presented by artist Sarah Craske, along with Professor Charlotte Sleigh and Dr. Simon Park. The text in question is Metamorphoses, an epic poem by the Roman poet Ovid, and this particular copy is over 300 year’s old, but Craske, Sleigh and Park won’t be looking at words, instead focussing on something else found between the pages. Biological Hermeutics looks at the microbial life that can be found on the paper and in the bindings of old books, blending artistic and scientific disciplines to provide new perspectives on bibliography.
Fri 28 Jul, Chetham’s Library, Long Millgate, Manchester, M3 1SB. 6pm – 8pm, www.eventbrite.com

Gold Teeth Residency at Odd Bar
Deaf Institute hip-hop stalwarts Gold Teeth continue their weekly DJ residency at the Northern Quarter’s Odd Bar. Expect a Friday night filled with old-school rap, R’n’B, grime and garage. See our full preview for more information.
Fri 28 Jul, Odd Bar, 30-32 Thomas Street, Manchester, M4 1ER. Tel: 0161 833 0070, 8pm – late, www.oddbar.co.uk

Clownfest at Exchange Square
This very niche festival runs through Friday and Saturday at Exchange Square: If you think clowning is just about greasepaint-smeared children’s entertainers, then think again – as Clownfest aims to expand your horizons in comedy and physical performance, with performances from family-friendly and adults-only acts alike, including the world-renowned Red Bastard (pictured). The festival includes some outdoor shows at the square, whilst the others are hosted in the Omnitorium – a purpose-erected 100 seater big top. Although many of the shows are ticketed and will set you back a very reasonable £5 – £8, all the family shows are Pay What You Want, allowing for some very cheap laughs this weekend.
Fri 28 Jul – Sat 29 Jul, Exchange Square, Manchester, M3 1BD. 10.30am – 10pm, www.clownfestmcr.com

Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair at PLANT NOMA
You can get your craft on all through this weekend, with this fun, free festival in the NOMA district. In a pop-up studio at Sadler’s Yard you can catch three days of stalls from independent makers and craft suppliers, as well as workshops helping you through your own craft projects. Pottery, screen printing, jewellery-making and glass engraving are just some of the sessions you can take part in. Be warned though, advanced booking is required if you want to take part in any of the sessions.
Fri 28 Jul – Sun 30 Jul, PLANT NOMA, Redfern, Sadler’s Yard, Manchester, M60 0AB. 10am – 6pm, www.eventbrite.com