Free things to do in Manchester this week ft. Chinese New Year + more

Chinese New Year Workshops at The Whitworth
It’s Chinese New Year this week, and to ring in the Year of the Pig The Whitworth is hosting a full afternoon of performances and workshops. Performances include the famed Northern Lion dance, hat-throwing dances and recitals on the SuoNa – a kind of traditional Chinese horn. In-between the performances, you’ll also get the chance to take part in a number of workshops, including paper folding and sewing. No need to book ahead, this is a drop-in event.
Mon 4 Feb, The Whitworth, Oxford Road, Manchester, M15 6ER, 11am – 4pm, www.facebook.com

Annual Pankhurst Lecture at Whitworth Hall
The University of Manchester’s School of Law hosts the annual Pankhurst lecture at Whitworth Hall this Wednesday evening, which will this year be delivered by Dame Anne Owers, the former Chief Inspector of Prisons. Dame Owers will be reflecting on a lifetime of Human Rights advocacy and justice reform, as well as her work with prisons and the IPCC. This annual lecture was set up to commemorate the achievements of Christabel Pankhurst – a lesser-known Pankhurst, but a former graduate of Manchester University and an important legal scholar in the fight for women’s suffrage.
Wed 6 Feb, Whitworth Hall, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, 5pm – 7pm, www.eventbrite.co.uk

Barking Tales at Zombie Shack
Comedian Harriet Dyer brings her regular night of laughs, storytelling and mental health advocacy back to tiki cocktail bar Zombie Shack. Joining Dyer onstage this month is Manchester comedian Tony Burgess – perhaps best known for his role in the Johnny Vegas stoner sitcom Idea – and Canadian comic Katherine Ferns, who’ll both be performing a mix of confessional storytelling and straight-up stand-up. Whilst this event is free to attend, donations to local mental health charities will be solicited on the night and you’re encouraged to give generously.
Wed 6 Feb, Zombie Shack, 50 New Wakefield Street, Manchester, M1 5NP, 7pm – 10.15pm, www.facebook.com

Chinese New Year Celebrations
You can start the weekend early – and Chinese New Year late – with these city-wide celebrations starting on Thursday, with performances (including another Lion dance, pictured), street food and an art installation in St. Ann’s Square. See our full preview for more details.
Thu 7 Feb – Sun 10 Feb, Various locations throughout the city centre, event times vary, www.visitmanchester.com