Free things to do in Manchester this week FT Common, Contact Theatre and more

Head to one of Stockport’s coolest bars, Ōdiobā, this Wednesday for an oh-so-wholesome jazz and chess night – perfect for thinkers and drinkers alike.

Sip on something smooth while live jazz tunes soundtrack the evening and challenge your pals, or strangers, to a casual game or two.

Calling all wordsmiths, Contact Theatre is hosting a mid-week poetry workshop this Thursday.

This super laid-back session is all about offering up a cosy and chill space you can let your thoughts flow without pressure, making it ideal for first-timers or seasoned poets looking to find their rhythm again.

Hosted by Blether Presents, this monthly workshop is a free drop-in to try new performance ideas out that may have otherwise been locked away in a notebook on the shelf covered in dust.

With the help of Director Giulia Grillo, you’ll be able to get feedback on a script, monologue, movement or music performance and find the confidence to perform in public in this cracking peer-to-peer support session.

Head to The Pollen Club for the exciting new launch of Stride & Slay Gay Run Club, giving attendees a 6km fun pace run around Manchester to your favourite anthems.

And with a social to finish featuring music from the DJ decks in the garden of The Pollen Club with refreshments and coffees from PKB – what better way to start your Saturday morning?

Northern Quarter’s ever-buzzing Common is set to host a free street party with a line-up of curated by JOY SOCIAL this Saturday.

You can look forward to a feel-good mix of Disco, Boogie, House and UK garage, with tunes from RichieNS & Aural-B of Nite School and Savannahh rolling from day to night.

This April, Swan Street boozer and home of the Detroit-style focaccia pizza, Ramona, will be turning four, and they’re going BIG for the special occasion.

For the Bank Holiday this Sunday, North West’s Anarchy Studios will be putting on a lively party featuring TVs, aliens, and a room full of people having a good old time.

In fact, this whole week, Ramona has got something cool going on, so be sure to keep them on your radar.