We’ve got a bumper bank holiday weekend on our hands and a whole bunch of other stuff to enjoy from now until Sunday that won’t blow the bank.

From glitter day parties over at Common to an alt market nestled in the heart of Stockport – here’s our rundown of the best free things to do in Manchester this week…

Art Not Evidence: The misuse of rap in criminal trials | University Place | Wed 1 May | 5pm - 6.30pm

Swing by the University of Manchester this Wednesday for a lecture led by Keir Monteith KC about reviewing the increased criminalisation of rap music, including the use of lyrics and music videos as evidence against young people accused of serious crimes.

The talk will explore how this approach undermines the positive aspects of rap; denies its status as an art form; stifles creativity; restricts freedom of speech and perpetuates harmful racist stereotypes that create a risk of wrongful conviction.

University Place, Theatre A, 176 Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, Tel: 0161 306 6000
SUMMER IS BREWING | Common | Sat 4 May | 1pm - 11.30pm

Lap up the sunshine this Saturday with Common’s queer Summer is Brewing party filled with pizza, pints and plenty of sparkle.

Hosted by Queer Brewing, those who rock up will be treated to Girls Night Out DJs spinning on the decks from 2pm till late, a glitter station from House of Body Art and some games with plenty of prizes to be won.

And, if you fancied it, Nell’s pizza will be served till late with happy hour kicking off at 8pm.

The WAFT: Hutch + Residents | Stage and Radio | Sat 4 May | 10pm - 4am

If you’re after more weekend plans then look no further than Stage and Radio where you can catch The WAFT return for a bank holiday special following their sell-out show in March.

Attendees will be treated to a special guest appearance from HUTCH, who’ll be supported by the venue’s resident, HANZ, alongside further residents, SUF and CMD.

43 Port St, Manchester M1 2EQ
Stockport Alternative Market | The Guildhall | Sun 5 May | 11am - 4pm

Swing by the Stockport Alternative Market taking place this Sunday at the Masonic Guildhall.

There will be over 60 incredible traders to check out ranging from jewellers and artists to artisans and creatives — head down, have a peruse and enjoy a day out in one of Greater Manchester’s most flourishing spots.

169-171 Wellington Rd S, Stockport SK1 3UA, Tel: 0161 480 6531
The Roost | Fuel Café Bar | Sun 5 May | 7pm - 9pm

End the week down at Withington’s favourite neighbourhood café bar for The Roost.

Presented by The Milky Pigeons, Arran Kemp and Conor Mather will be hosting an evening of alternative comedy, showcasing some new sketches that they’ll be bringing to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this year.

They’ve got a cracking line-up of comedic acts throughout the night that you won’t want to miss.

448 Wilmslow Rd, Withington, Greater Manchester M20 3BW, Tel: 0161 448 9702
Mon 29 Apr - Sun 5 May
Words:
Rhiannon Ingle
Published on:
Mon 29 Apr 2024