Free things to do this bank holiday weekend ft. The Gravy, Whit Walks + more

The Gravy Magazine Launch at Fuel Café Bar
The Gravy is a new photographic magazine backed by Castlefield Gallery and featuring some of the best in up-and-coming photographic talent. To celebrate the launch of their first issue they’re having a little party at vegetarian café bar Fuel in Withington this Friday. Local DJs will be on throughout the night, and copies of the Spring edition of the magazine will be available to purchase, alongside a range of prints.
Fri 27 May, Fuel Café Bar, 448 Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M20 3BW. 7.30pm – 10pm, www.facebook.com

Festival Oldham (pictured)
If you head over to Oldham this Saturday, you should be able to catch this all day family friendly festival, which runs annually at various venues around the town centre, and celebrates the fusion of art and science. This year’s festival boasts a Bonkers Balloon Show, art workshops, and live appearances from Punk Science and the Two Man One Man Band. One particular highlight is a hands on experience with Mad Science, where little scientists can have the chance to make magic mud and operate a foam factory. This is some great, messy fun for the weekend!
Sat 28 May, Oldham Town Centre and Gallery Oldham, Greaves Street, Oldham, OL1 1AL. Tel: 0161 770 3070, 11am – 4pm, www.oldham.gov.uk 

Horse and Jockey Market
You may have missed it, but we’re currently in the middle of the  Chorlton Arts Festival, with its packed programme of events. Many of them cost, but there’s a selection of events that won’t set you back a penny. One such event is this afternoon market on Chorlton Green, where a range of local producers and crafters will be displaying their wares. Otherwise, be sure to check the full listings on the festival site, as there’s plenty to catch this bank holiday.
Sat 28 May, Horse & Jockey, The Green, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Manchester, M21 9HS. 11am – 5pm, www.chorltonartsfestival.com

King Street Festival
Running all through this bank holiday weekend is this free festival on King Street. With plenty of celebrated local restaurants and bars – including Grill on the Alley – providing an al fresco dining experience. Definitely the best place to pick up a bite or a cocktail this weekend, with a selection of live performances to boot. See our full preview for further details.
Sat 28 – Sun 30 May, King Street and surrounding area, Manchester, Opening times vary, www.kingstreetfestival.com

Zine Club at Manchester Craft & Design Centre
The first Zine Club will be taking place this Saturday afternoon at Manchester Craft & Design Centre, just off Edge Street. It’s a space for people to discuss, appreciate and even work on zines, and it’s aimed at newbies and veterans alike. It’s organised by the kids from Salford Zine Library, so you’ll definitely be in capable hands.
Sat 28 May, Manchester Craft & Design Centre, 17 Oak Street, Manchester, M4 5JD. 2pm – 5pm, www.facebook.com

Didsbury Makers’ Market
The Makers’ Market returns to Didsbury again this weekend, with another offering of vintage clothing, artisan treats and crafts. Highlights include flowers and garden essentials from Hillside Herbs and pansy-topped cakes from baker Jemma Egley. Check out our full preview for more information.
Sun 29 May, Didsbury Makers Market, Withington Community Hospital, Nell Lane (just off Burton Road), West Didsbury, Manchester, M20 2LR, 11am – 4pm, www.themakersmarket.co.uk

Manchester Whit Walks
The Whit Walk is a typical Whit Monday tradition, where people are encouraged to get out walking in streets and forego alcohol and other vices. Whilst Whit Monday was technically last week, the Whit Walk has been rescheduled to take place on the bank holiday Monday. The walkers will be marching from Manchester Cathedral in the morning, along Deansgate and then on to Albert Square for a short Christian Service. It’s a great way to participate in a Spring tradition, and as its not actually Whit Monday, you don’t have to feel guilty about going for a pint afterwards.
Mon 30 May, Manchester Cathedral, Victoria Street, Manchester, M3 1SX, 10am, www.manchestercathedral.org