Free things to do this week ft. History of Rum, Punk Bingo + more

New Open Mic at Kosmonaut (pictured)
Northern Quarter favourite Kosmonaut launch their new open mic night this Monday. The Tariff Street bar has long been host to offbeat DJ, quiz and comedy nights, so new the new night, named ‘Kos It’s Monday’ is a welcome addition. No acts confirmed at the time of writing – it is open mic after all – so you’ll just have to head down to find out who’s on, or even snag a spot for yourself.
Mon 4 Sep, Kosmonaut, 10 Tariff St, Manchester, M1 2FF. 8.30pm – 11.30pm, www.facebook.com

History of Rum Through Cocktails at Tusk
Another great Northern Quarter bar, Tusk on High Street is hosting this interesting free cocktail event on Tuesday as part of the Manchester Loves Cocktails festival. Learn about the history of rum as you take a tasting tour through a diverse menu of cocktails. It’s inspired by the work of pop history writer Wayne Curtis, who wrote ‘And a Bottle of Rum: A History of the New World in Ten Cocktails’, a book that covers American history – from the 18th Century colonial era to present day – through the medium of mixology. This event has similar lofty aims, and at a baser level it’s a cheap way to get turnt. Booking ahead through Skiddle is essential.
Tue 5 Sep, Tusk, 88 High Street, Manchester, M4 1ES. 6pm – 8pm, www.skiddle.com

Oink Punk Bingo at Blue Pig
Straight across the road from Tusk, on Wednesday you can catch another of the Blue Pig’s Oink Punk Bingo nights, this time presenting an all-vinyl special. It’s a twist on the classic game beloved by the blue-rinse brigade, with the same big prizes, and ball calls punctuated by classic rock and alternative songs from the 60s through to the noughties. As it’s an all-vinyl special, expect plenty of crate-digged gems from yesteryear. Whilst it’s technically not free-to-play, the £1 pay-in does also include a gratis shot of tequila.
Wed 6 Sep, Blue Pig, 69 High Street, Manchester, M4 1FS. 8pm – 11.30pm, www.eventbrite.co.uk

Music Showcase at Thirsty Scholar
Oxford Road archway bar the Thirsty Scholar is holding this free music showcase on Thursday night, with a packed bill of Northern artists. First up is young singer-songwriter Tom Branfoot: Hailing from Leeds, Branfoot will be playing stripped-down art rock. Local outfit Great Ghosts play dreampop straight from their Manchester bedrooms. Rounding off the bill is guitar popper Alex Orosa and country duo Two Guns For Hire, who sometimes bring an interpretive dancer on stage with them to act out their set list as they go.
Thu 7 Sep, Thirsty Scholar, 50 New Wakefield Street, Manchester, M1 5NP. 7pm – 10pm, www.facebook.com