The weather’s getting colder, the days are getting darker and we’re getting closer and closer to the big day. With all the financial chaos that inevitably ensues in the run-up to Christmas, your wallet may be needing a bit of a break.

So, from art markets in Fallowfield to poetry slams at Factory International, we’ve rounded up some of the best free things to do in Manchester this week…

Smartphone Quiz | The Corner Boy | Wed 3 Dec | From 7pm

If you’re feeling quizzy this week, look no further than Northern Quarter’s The Corner Boy who are hosting their weekly free Smartphone Quiz.

Promising top tunes, cheap bevs and some proper good questions, this one is pretty much everything you could possibly ever want from a midweek quiz.

21 Hilton St, Manchester M1 1JJ
Studio Sale | Seven Limes Pottery | Fri 6 Dec & Sat 7 Dec | 5.30pm - 8pm / 10am - 4pm

If you’re after something more wholesome this weekend night then head to the new home of Seven Limes, one of Manchester’s oldest running pottery studios, where the team will be hosting an exhibition and ceramics market — the perfect spot to grab a mulled wine and scope out a unique gift for a loved one.

85 North Western Street, Ardwick, Manchester M12 6DY, Tel: 0744 386 0612
Piano Sessions: Isaac Horton | Band on the Wall | Sat 7 Dec | 1pm - 4pm

Swing by Band on the Wall to see a matinee performance by the versatile and expressive pianist, Isaac Horton.

Perfect for music lovers of all ages, sit back and relax in The Copper Bar with a cocktail or a coffee, and enjoy a mix of classical and modern favourites.

25 Swan St, Manchester M4 5JZ, Tel: 0161 834 1786
Winter Markets | Islington Mill | Sat 7 Dec | 12pm - 5pm

If you want something a little away from the hustle and bustle of Christmas markets in town, look no further than Islington Mill’s much-loved Winter Markets which kick off off this Saturday.

Spotlighting a huge array of makers and creators, attendees are invited to visit stalls and studios in Unit 4 and the ground floor courtyard which will have music, mulled wine and a whole lot of merriment.

James St, Salford M3 5HW, Tel: 0161 278 6404
Poetry Place | Factory International | Sat 7 Dec | 4pm - 6pm

Head to Factory International this Saturday for a poetry slam headlined by multi-award-winning British Jamaican-born Nigerian poet and performance artist, P.A.Bitez.

The event will see 10 expertly selected poets given three minutes to perform their most poignant and powerful poetry, with a chance to take home the Poetry Place Slam Title and a £100 cash prize.

Aviva Studios, Water St, Manchester M3 4JQ, Tel: 0333 322 8679
Platt Fields Art Market | Platt Fields Market Garden | Sun 8 Dec | 10am - 3pm

There’s nothing like some good fresh air to cure your Sunday morning hangover and Platt Fields art market is a great way to enjoy a nice dose of nature and make something of the day.

Whether you just walk about the scenic garden with a hot drink in hand, vibe out to the live music or even get a spot of Christmas shopping sorted while supporting local makers – this is shaping up to be a fab way to end the week.

Platt Fields Park, Platt Fields Market Garden, Fallowfield, Manchester M14 6LT, Tel: 07538 860488
Mon 2 Dec - Sun 8 Dec
Words:
Rhiannon Ingle
Published on:
Mon 2 Dec 2024