November is a thrifty month if you’re saving up for Christmas but that doesn’t mean you have to hibernate. We’ve gathered together a bunch of free things to do in Manchester taking in everything from flamenco dancing to festive markets to parties with free beer. YES, indeed. For some of these events you’ll need to register in advance – click the More Info buttons for full details.
Get a closer look at Supermedium with this curator-led tour. The exhibition features work by Kelan Andrews and Petra Szemán, alongside items from the legendary Manchester animation studio Cosgrove Hall Films Archive (where Danger Mouse and Postman Pat were made, amongst other kids TV classics).
Every Saturday night, Band on the Wall’s Copper Bar hosts a vibrant, free celebration of global sounds and feel-good energy. Expect a lively mix of Afrobeat, Reggae, Funk, Soul, Latin and Jazz, powered by a live band to keep the dance floor alive ‘til late. From crowd favourites to deep cuts, it’s all about the music that makes you move.
If you want to shop for considered gifts from Manchester artists this Christmas, head to the Craft & Design Centre’s festive season launch. Visitors can enjoy a glass of mulled wine, festive music, creative activities and delicious food and drink from Fred’s Café, all while exploring the centre’s collection of independent studios.
Get ahead with your Christmas shopping at this independent makers’ market in the People’s History Museum’s atmospheric Edwardian Engine Hall. Browse original artwork, handmade crafts and unusual gifts, while enjoying food, drink and live music. Entry is free, so you can have a good browse without feeling obliged to buy.
Celebrate the history of Manchester’s iconic Nia Centre and the communities of Hulme, Moss Side and Rusholme at this special evening of archival film screenings. Organised by Art-chivists CIC, with support from North West Film Archive, Manchester Metropolitan University and the British Film Institute, the event brings together historic footage, film introductions and contributions from people connected with the space.
This festive celebration of black-owned businesses, African and Caribbean culture, creativity and food brings more than 40 businesses and creatives to The Whitworth. Expect independent makers, original gifts and lots of inspiration for Christmas shopping.
Iconic DJ and producer Conducta is taking over YES Manchester for a night of music, games and free drinks hosted by Latin lager brand Desperados. It’s part of a series of Lotería events from Desperados in partnership with Manchester artist, Stanley Chow.
Ever fancied learning to flamenco dance? This free introductory session is suitable for complete beginners. It’s followed by a workshop for contemporary dancers, a Q&A session with the dancers, and a relaxed session combining flamenco clapping and audience participation. The afternoon ends with a performance from Julio Ruiz, and a Fin de Fiesta from all the artists.
The Sunday Letter Project is a global letter-writing initiative that invites people to take a free pledge to write one handwritten letter every Sunday to their friends, loved ones, strangers or themselves. Find out more about it, and write your own handwritten letters alongside others at this free event. It’s part of the bookshop’s month-long Connection Counts programme of free community events.
- Words:
- Sarah Tierney
- Published on:
- Mon 9 Nov 2026
Hear firsthand what it was like to wake up in Kyiv on the day Russia invaded. Manchester-based Ukrainian journalist Maria Romanenko and her partner Jez Myers give an eye-opening (and incredibly gripping) account of their experience in the frantic hours and days after the first explosions. Don’t miss this chance to hear an insider’s perspective on the invasion, delivered with honesty and dark humour.