From mid-week fitness classes at Whitworth Locke to comedy nights at The Deansgate, here’s our rundown of the best free things to do in Manchester during Twixmas…

letsRUN Manchester: Thursdays for the Girls | Bondi Bowls | Thu 31 Jan - 6pm - 7pm

If you’re up for it this week, swing by Bondi Bowls for a free, social run hosted by letsRUN Manchester’s all-female team.

The ladies-only 7k run is a great way to meet other like-minded gals in the community while also keeping fit and healthy!

57 Chorlton Street, Manchester M1 3FY
BoxFlow - Beginner | Whitworth Locke | Thu 31 Jan | 7.30pm - 8.30pm

Spend your last day of 2025 bringing in some good habits for the New Year over at Whitworth Locke’s free BoxFlow class for beginners.

At the session, you can learn boxing fundamentals during a 45-minute, high-intensity session that combines padwork and drills with strength exercises.

The class finishes by dimming the lights and moving to the mats for a 10-minute guided breathwork practice, bringing balance, calm and connection.

74 Princess Street, Manchester M1 6JD, Tel: 0161 823 0530
Stockport Outdoor Market | Market Hall | Sat 3 Jan | 9am - 4pm

If you fancy a mooch this weekend, look no further than Stockport’s Outdoor Market featuring butchers, bakers, candlestick makers and much more.

Not only does the market have an amazing Victorian Market Hall, which is home to over 30 independent businesses, it’s also surrounded by eateries, heritage sites and artisans.

Market Place, Stockport SK1 1ES, Tel: 0161 474 2500
LIGHTS DOWN LOW with Kuila | Red Light | Sat 3 Jan | 10pm - 2am

Keep the party going over at Red Light with the sounds of Kuila. This selector knows how to soundtrack a bouncing party, and she’ll be doing just that for an all-night-long four-hour set.

The energy is high, and the dancing doesn’t stop so prepare all your house and disco favourites condensed into one unforgettable night.

4-2 Little David St, Manchester M1 3GL
Sunday Comedy Open Mic | The Deansgate | Sun 4 Jan | From 7pm

Finish the week with a big dose of laughter where you can sit back and watch brand new, new-ish, and experienced comedians take to the stage.

This open mic night sees comedians try out new material or work on refining their routines, and, if you’re brave enough or fancy trying stand-up for the first time, you’re welcome to give it a go!

321 Deansgate, Manchester M3 4LQ, Tel: 0161 388 8956
Mon 29 Dec - Sun 4 Jan
Words:
Rhiannon Ingle
Published on:
Mon 29 Dec 2025