Free things to do in Manchester this week ft. My Country + more

Playtime Summer Activities at The Whitworth
The schools are out for the holidays, and on Monday The Whitworth opens up its summer programme of events, presenting six weeks of family-friendly events and activities for little ones to get stuck into. For younger kids there’s indoor and outdoor sensory play, and for the elders there’s the museum’s own Minecraft server, featuring a blocky virtual replica of this fantastic Edwardian building (pictured). In addition to this, there’ll also be individual events running all through the summer – so be sure to check out their website for the latest updates.
Mon 23 Jul – Fri 31 Aug, The Whitworth, Oxford Road, Manchester, M15 6ER. www.whitworth.manchester.ac.uk

Free Jazz at Band on the Wall
Manchester Jazz Festival is well underway and iconic venue Band on the Wall is also getting in on the action. On Tuesday evening, they present a bill packed with up-and-coming jazz acts from the local area and beyond. London-based quintet Kinkajous are headlining the night, with support RNCM trained experimentalists Plume, jazz piano from Dean Stockdale and laid-back smooth soul courtesy of The Broken Orchestra. Entry is free, but booking ahead is essential.
Tue 24 Jul, Band on the Wall, 25 Swan Street, Manchester, M4 5JZ. 7.30pm – 11pm, www.facebook.com

My Country Photography Exhibition at St. James’ House
From Wednesday, St. James’ House in the city centre hosts this exhibition featuring the work of photographers from around the world. My Country asks its contributors to show how they view their country, giving many a rare opportunity to cast their home nation in a positive light and convey important social messages that are usually lost on Western audiences. The exhibition is organised by the Photographic Angle, a charity that promotes public education on the art and science of photography.
Wed 25 Jul – Sun 29 Jul, St. James’ House, 7 Charlotte Street, Manchester, M1 4DZ. 10am – 3pm, www.skiddle.com

Beach Hunks at 3MT
Sketch duo Beach Hunks bring their new show ‘Leg Day’ to Affleck’s Palace mini-theatre 3MT this Thursday evening. It’s a collection of brand new sketches they’re planning on bringing to the 2018 Edinburgh Fringe, so expect some rough edges as they fine-tune the jokes for the big festival. This is a pay-what-you-want show, so you’re encouraged to give generously.
Thu 26 Jul, 3MT, Afflecks Arcade, 35-39 Oldham Street, Manchester, M1 1JG. 7.30pm – 9pm, www.facebook.com