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29.06.2019 - 21.07.2019.

Top Five: Hot Tickets at Manchester International Festival.

01.07.2019 - 31.07.2019.

Must See Events at the Greater Manchester Fringe Festival.

31.05.2019 - 14.06.2019.

Win a stack of USA-style pancakes & drinks for two at Oak Street Café.

Fancy winning a scrumptious stack of pancakes and a drink for you and a mate at Northern Quarter’s cutest café? Then keep reading! Tucked away in the Manchester Craft and Design Centre, Oak Street Café is an independent eatery serving up inventive dishes for all diets and tastes, from hearty soups and toasties to delicious sweet treats. They make a great brew too, which goes very nicely with their USA Style Pancakes. Check out the full menu here - and don’t just take our word for it. We’ve got pancakes and drinks for two at Oak Street up for grabs in a new competition. Made with gluten-free ingredients, their tasty toppings include blueberry compote and Greek yoghurt or crispy smoked bacon and maple syrup. So, for your chance to kick-back with free food in the beautiful surroundings of this former Victorian fish market, just simply enter your details into the form below. Include your Twitter / Insta handle as we will announce the winners over social media. Entrants will be automatically subscribed to our mailing list. Competition closes on Friday 14 June at midnight. Oak Street Café, Manchester Craft and Design Centre, 17 Oak St, Manchester M4 5JD. Tel: 0161 839 7530, www.craftanddesign.com [gravityform id="1" title="false" description="false"]

13.06.2019 - 15.06.2019.

Win tickets: Olivier award-winning Rotterdam comes to Manchester Opera House.

Following a critically-acclaimed run in the West End, Jon Brittain's Rotterdam is coming to Manchester Opera House. The bittersweet comedy follows a young couple on New Year's Eve in Rotterdam, Alice has finally plucked up the courage to email her parents and tell them she's gay. But before she can hit send, her girlfriend Fiona reveals that he has always identified as a man and now wants to start living as one named Adrian. Covering topics such as gender, sexuality and being a long way from home writer Jon Brittain, co-creator of Margaret Thatcher Queen of Soho has created a vital piece of new theatre. To be in with a chance of winning a pair of tickets please fill in the competition form below. Last entries at midnight on Mon 10 Jun. [gravityform id="1" title="true" description="true"] Thu 13 - Sat 15 Jun, Manchester Opera House, 3 Quay Street, Manchester M3 3HP, Tel: 0844 871 3018, tickets from £10, 7.30pm, www.atgtickets.com

11.05.2019 - 12.05.2019.

Top 5: What to see & do at the OM Yoga Show in Manchester.

Love yoga, or simply interested in leading a more holistic life? The OM Yoga show, coming to EventCity this May, has it all; from world-class retailers, freebies and whole foods, to classes providing inspiration from leading teachers. Fancy something a bit more specialised? There are workshops taking place over the weekend focusing on mediation, how to avoid injury and much more as well as the chance to explore 100 stalls offering everything from yoga bags and mats to clothing, jewellery, superfoods and retreats. Fancy the idea of yoga teacher training but not sure you want to commit? There's an hour long session with Sun Power Yoga (Sat, 10.30am, £8). For yoga fans, teachers and those who have suffered injury - or are injury prone - there's an invaluable workshop about the most common yoga-related injuries, and how to avoid them (Sat 11 May, 3.15pm, £10). We also like the sound of the Hot Pod yoga sessions (various times & prices) which offer an otherworldly setting for your practice. On Sunday, advanced practitioner David Sye's mediation workshop (pictured) draws traditions from around the world to leave you feeling refreshed, destressed and armed with a planet's worth of ways to live more mindfully. (Sun 12 May, 1.20pm, £15). Under-16s visit free when accompanied by an adult. Book online in advance here to save 15% and explore the ticket packages on offer. We particularly like the look of the £12 ticket bundle which includes entry to the Manchester show (either day of the event), an OM Yoga tote bag and FOUR magazines (OM Yoga & Lifestyle - worth £4.99 alone - Vegan Life magazine, PlantBased magazine, Be Kind magazine) or the £39.99 ticket which includes a year subscription to OM Yoga magazine and a goodie bag worth £90. We're lucky enough to have 10 pairs of tickets on offer for the show - click here to enter - and see you there! Sat 11 & Sun 12 May, EventCity, Phoenix Way Off, Barton Dock Road, Manchester M41 7TB, one day entry £7.50, www.manchester.omyogashow.com A Manchester Wire partnership post.

10.05.2019.

Book now: £10 tickets to catch Northern Chamber Orchestra finale at Stoller Hall with Chloë Hanslip.

We're offering Manchester Wire readers £10 tickets to enjoy Northern Chamber Orchestra’s season finale as Orchestra in Association at The Stoller Hall, rounding off their International Women’s Day 2019 celebrations with violinist Chloë Hanslip. Entitled This Woman’s Work, this finale concert is directed by NCO Artist in Association Hanslip, playing first as part of the ensemble, and then stepping out to take on the role of soloist. Opening the concert, attendees can enjoy Hugo Wolf’s enchanting Italian Serenade, followed by the short but sweet Elegy by Grace Williams, generally regarded as Wales’ most notable female composer. Chloë then takes on JS Bach’s A-minor violin concerto, before continuing as soloist in the second half, playing Arvo Pärt’s atmospheric and virtuosic Fratres; a piece for violin, strings and single percussionist. Bringing the concert to its climax is Tchaikovsky’s popular Serenade for Strings in C major, Op. 48, an energetic piece that showcases the great Russian composer at the height of his powers. For those who miss out - or perhaps just need a second helping - the concert is repeated at Macclesfield’s Heritage Centre on Saturday 11 May (7.30pm), and Buxton’s St John’s Church on Sunday 12 May at 4pm. To book your tickets, simply use code HELLO for £10 tickets anywhere in the Hall via the link below. Fri 10 May, The Stoller Hall, Hunts Bank, Manchester, M3 1DA, Tel: 0333 130 0967, 7.30pm, £10, stollerhall.com

13.03.2019 - 19.03.2019.

Work with us: We're looking for an editor & sales person to launch our new-look site.

Manchester Wire is about to relaunch with a larger site, more features and a whole lot more potential. We're looking for paid team members to join us from mid-April onwards. We have part time positions available. One is leading the editorial team, the other is in sales. Please get in touch with info@ManchesterWire.co.uk with a covering letter and CV if you think that you fit the bill. Relevant experience, good contacts, excellent communication skills (in person, on the phone and on the page) and a can-do attitude are essential. Deadline: Tuesday 19 March 2019 at midnight. Any applications received sooner are welcome.

01.03.2019 - 19.03.2019.

Competition: Win bottomless brunch or Sunday lunch at The Bay Horse Tavern.

Thomas Street favourite the Bay Horse Tavern - perhaps the Northern Quarter's finest pub - is offering Manchester Wire readers the chance to win a bottomless brunch or Sunday lunch for two. The Bay Horse's Bottomless Brunch menu is usually £27.50 per person and includes one food option and bottomless drinks. Available between 11am and 2pm every Saturday and Sunday, the menu includes a gourmet selection of bacon, sausage and egg sandwiches, smoked salmon and scrambled eggs, a locally sourced full English - and more. To drink, choose from Prosecco, Bloody Mary, Irish coffee, Mimosas, house wine or selected bottled beer (terms and conditions apply - click here for more details). Moving onto the Sunday lunch options, food is served from 11am to 9pm. Choose from chicken or sirloin beef with all the trimmings for £15, or £28 for a two-person portion. The veggie choice is mushroom Wellington (also £15) and starters are a treat. There's a retro theme running through soup of the day (£4.50), quiche (£4), prawn cocktail (£7), black pudding with cider sauce (this one gets our vote, £5.50) and ham hock terrine with piccalilli (£5). To be in with a chance of winning this delicious prize, simply enter your details into the form below; don't worry, we'll contact you if you are the winner to find out which option you would like to enjoy on us. Competition closes at midnight on Tuesday 19 March and we'll announce the winner the next day on social media ONLY. Instagram / Twitter handle essential. All entrants will automatically be subscribed to our twice weekly mailing list. We don't share information with anyone else and you can unsubscribe at any time. The Bay Horse Tavern, 35-37 Thomas Street, Manchester, M4 1NA, Tel: 0161 669 5799, thebayhorsetavern.co.uk Click here for more food and drink events in Manchester. [gravityform id="1" title="false" description="false"]

cheese at The Creameries - @ Bacon on the Beech.

14.02.2019.

Book tickets: St Trifon's celebration of bread, wine & cheese at The Creameries' on Valentine's Day.

Ok so we didn't mention this in the title, but The Creameries are cancelling Valentine’s Day this year, favouring a different saint instead: St Trifon. The patron saint of gardeners and wine makers in Bulgaria, his feast day is celebrated on 14 February each year. On that day, bread is baked and folk raise a glass (or three) to encourage the growth of the vines at the start of Spring. What better excuse, then, for getting your besties round The Creameries’ communal tables to enjoy a feast of bread, wine, beer and cheese; the perfect foil to overpriced red stems and padded cards with twee poems. The limited, all inclusive tickets are worth £36.75 per person - and we’ve got four (worth a total of £147) up for grabs so you and three of your friends can enjoy the St Trifon’s Eve Celebration together. Soppy love songs? Scratch that. Over in Chorlton, it’s cheesey choices all the way. To be in with a chance of winning the chance to celebrate the love of wine and bread with your mates this Valentine's Day at The Creameries, simply enter your details into the form below and press 'send'. All entrants will be automatically subscribed to our twice weekly mailing list. We don't share your details with anyone else and you can unsubscribe at any time. Competition closes at midnight on Monday 11 February and the winner will be announced the following day. Thu 14 Feb, The Creameries, 406 Wilbraham Road, Chorlton, Manchester, M21 0SD, Tel: 0161 312 8328, 7pm, £36.75 per person, www.universe.com For more Valentine's ideas in Manchester, click here. Image: Bacon on the Beech A Manchester Wire partnership post. [gravityform id="1" title="false" description="false"]

08.02.2019.

Win: 10 family tickets to Circus Berlin at Manchester EventCity.

Circus Berlin are landing in EventCity this weekend for two weeks of thrills, wows and fun. Housed in the UK’s largest big top, the new show offers brilliant circus acts, music and entertainment from a team of international performers (read our preview here). We're lucky enough to have 10 family tickets (which allow entry to four people of any age) to Circus Berlin at the date and time of your choice. Simply enter your details into the form to be in with a chance of winning. We will select one winner a day over the coming eight days. Winners will be notified by Twitter and email. T&Cs: By entering the competition, you will automatically be subscribed to our mailing list. We don’t share your information with anyone else, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Winners will be asked to specify a preferred show date and time. Fri 8 – Sun 24 Feb, EventCity, Phoenix Way, Off Barton Dock Road, Manchester, M41 7TB, Tel: 0203 375 3970, times vary, £8 – £36, www.eventcity.co.uk [gravityform id="1" title="false" description="false"] A Manchester Wire partnership post.

07.12.2017 - 22.12.2017.

Win: A limited-edition Manchester Wire tote bag by Caroline Dowsett - or buy for £9.99.

Be the envy of your pals with this season's must-have accessory. Yes, it's the awesome Manchester Wire tote bag in heavy duty cotton, replete with an eye-catching yellow and blue motif by illustrator Caroline Dowsett. These sturdy sacks are available on Ebay right now - or, if you'd rather take a gamble, and see if you can 'bag' one for free, check out our socials for competitions. Twitter: Follow @mcrwire and tweet us and Caroline explaining why you are a winner. Instagram: Follow @mcrwire and like our Caroline Dowsett tote post. Facebook: Like our page, tag us and share our Caroline Dowsett tote post. Competitions close at midnight on Tuesday 18 December 2018.

21.12.2018.

Win: Japanese-inspired Sunday roast for two at Cottonopolis.

Cottonopolis bar and restaurant in Manchester's Northern Quarter specialises in Asian-inspired cocktails and dishes - and the Sunday roast menu (which launched in October 2018) is no different. Choose from roasted Wagyu beef rump, Kurobuta pork loin, Karaage fried chicken and a vegan shiitake mushroom, pumpkin and sesame puff. Salt and pepper roast potatoes, Asian-style greens, Yorkshire Puddings and gravy (except the chicken which comes with mash, chicken gravy and miso corn) are punchy side orders, and there's a special list of classic, rare and speciality wines by the glass to explore too. Roast dinner is served every Sunday from noon - and we've got a meal for two up for grabs. This competition has now ended. For more food and drink in Manchester click here. Cottonopolis, Newton Street, Manchester M1 2AE. Tel: 0161 236 5144, www.cottonopolis-nq.com

28.08.2018 - 01.11.2018.

Top 5: £5 lunches in Manchester's Northern Quarter.

While five-hour gourmet lunches may be a thing of the past, Manchester has kept up with the times, serving a diverse range of dishes for £5 every lunch time. Here we pick out our five favourite places to lunch in the Northern Quarter. 1. Chicken burgers at Yard and Coop Yard and Coop does just one thing but they do it well. Their buttermilk fried chicken goes from farm to table in 48 hours and at lunch time you can choose from a chickpea burger, three drumsticks or a BBQ pulled chicken burger for £5 (pic). 23-37 Edge Street, Manchester M4 1HW. Tel: 0161 710 2570, www.yardandcoop.com 2. Crazy Pedro’s two slices of pizza & a drink These pizzas are not for the unadventurous but somehow the combinations work. Choose 2 slices and a drink for £5 from a range of toppings including Fried Chicken and Waffle or Nacho Libre (a nacho pizza that's ridiculously addictive). 1 Short Street, Manchester, M4 1AA. Tel: 0161 359 3000, www.crazypedros.co.uk 3. Gourmet sandwiches with skinny fries at Rosylee Sandwiches are classic lunch fare but these ones from Rosylee are no £3 meal deal. For £5 you can choose from five different fillings ranging from a vegan carib-bean to their take on prawn cocktail. All come with skinny fries. 11 Stevenson Square, Manchester, M1 1DB. Tel: 0161 228 6629, www.rosylee.com 4. Deli-style lunch at The Blue Pig For a satisfying lunch, head for the new look Blue Pig. For £5 you can choose tortilla or quiche of the day (or marinated chicken thigh) and one of three salads. 69 High Street, Manchester M4 1FS. Tel: 0161 806 0794, www.thebluepigmcr.co.uk 5. Cane and Grain's rack of ribs or Mexican bean burger (ok, these are £6 but still a great deal) If you like ribs then Cane and Grain on Thomas Street is the place to go. Not quite a fiver but £6 gets you half a rack of baby back ribs as part of their lunch deal. Don’t eat meat? No problem, there’s a great Mexican bean burger served with fries or house salad. 49-51 Thomas Street, Manchester, M4 1NA. Tel: 0161 839 7033, www.caneandgrain.co.uk

03.09.2018 - 30.09.2018.

Top 10: Manchester food offers in September 2018.

The nights are going to get longer, the weather’s going to get a bit colder (probably), but there are plenty of venues to hide away from the outside including some Northern Quarter mainstays, a lot of unlimited booze, and some brand new openings. See below for our collection of the 10 best deals this September. 1. £6 Italian-inspired lunch and a drink at Veeno Every weekday, Manchester wine bar Veeno offer lunch with an alcoholic drink for just £6. With Italian inspired paninis and salads, the wine lovers say they aim to reclaim lunchtimes with options such as Italian tuna and fresh mozzarella to go with your beer or wine. Veeno, 14 Brazennose Street, Manchester M2 6LW. Tel: 0161 839 6742 www.theveenocompany.com 2. Half price at Don Giovanni’s Another Italian is reopening on September 10th, and the celebrate Don Giovanni’s refurb after their fire is offering 50% off all food when booked in advance. The deal runs through September and is available every day. Don Giovanni’s, Peter House, 1-2 Oxford Street, Manchester M1 5AN. Tel: 0161 228 2482 www.dongiovanni.uk.com 3. £5 cocktails at Trof - pictured Whilst most places reserve their drinks offers for slow weekdays, Trof are offering Saturday night drinkers their cocktail menu for just £5 each. With classic offerings as well as Trof specials, this is one of the cheapest places for a cocktail on a weekend in the Northern Quarter. If weekdays are more your thing, half price food on a Monday will have you sorted. Trof, 8 Thomas Street, Manchester M4 1EU. Tel: 0161 833 3197 www.trofnq.co.uk 4. Oktoberfest offers at Ply Whilst pizza is more of an Italian jam, Ply are getting into the German swing of things with a special menu for 10 days from Monday 24 September. With a Oktoberfest special pizza of bratwurst and caramelised onions, joined by a selection of German beers, the signs of European cooperation are alive and well. You can get two steins and a pizza for just £15. Ply, 26 Lever Street, Manchester M1 1DW. Tel: 0161 711 0401 www.plymcr.co.uk 5. £40 for 3 courses + unlimited wine at Wood We mention this every month, because it’s just too good not to go on about. Masterchef winner Simon Wood’s restaurant has been making a name for itself as offering fine dining for a while now. However, if the price tag is sometimes a bit steep you can treat yourself every Wednesday to three courses and unlimited wine for £40. They expect you to be sensible, but this is an offer to put a smile on anyone on a wet September Wednesday. Wood, Jack Rosenthal Street, Manchester M15 4RA. Tel: 0161 236 5211 www.woodmanchester.com 6. Unlimited wine at TNQ Another of Manchester’s unlimited wine offers comes in the shape of Northern Quarter stalwart, TNQ, who continue their unlimited wine and 3 courses on a Monday and Thursday (combines it with Wood, and that’s a week to be proud of). TNQ, 108 High Street, Manchester M4 1HQ. Tel: 0161 832 7115, www.tnq.co.uk 7. Mancunian roast at 1761 with complimentary wine 1761, on Booth Street, offers a Sunday roast where all the food is sourced from Greater Manchester. To go along with the low milage chicken, there’s a free bottle of wine with every two roasts ordered - meaning two of you can get fed and watered for under £30. You even get extra gravy if you want it. 1761 Manchester, 2 Booth Street, Manchester M2 4AT. Tel: 0161 714 0414, www.1761mcr.co.uk 8. £1 Pies at newly re-opened Pie & Ale in NQ The recently reopened Pie & Ale has taken no time in getting back to what it does best. If you like the first of the two items in the name, take a friend and one of the pies will be £1 with any full-priced pie order. Pie & Ale, Units 1 & 2 the Hive, 47 Lever Street, Manchester M1 1FN. Tel: 0161 228 1610, www.pieandalebar.co.uk 9. Free drinks at YES launch party Much anticipated venue, Yes, opens on Charles Street on Thursday 20 September and they are ready for a launch befitting the new gig venue. With DJs and acts over four floors on launch night, there will also be 5,000 free drinks. Thu 20 Sep, Yes, 38 Charles Street, Manchester M1 7DB. Tel: 0161 832 11112, @yes_mcr for more. 10. Unlimited boozy brunch at Bay Horse Tavern for £29.50 No food and drink deal offer is complete without an unlimited brunch offer and this month, we’re telling you to head to Bay Horse Tavern for one dish and unlimited booze for £29.50 on Saturday or Sunday. Sat & Sun, Bay Horse Tavern, 35-37 Thomas Street, Manchester M4 1NA. Tel: 0161 669 5799 www.thebayhorsetavern.co.uk

21.07.2018.

Original, etched portraits: Notonyourskin Glass Engraving on Afflecks' 3rd Floor.

Technology has improved our lives vastly, from the miraculous benefits that make improvements to quality of life, to the more whimsical gains that make us feel like we're in a futuristic flick. However, technology isn't great for everything, as Notonyourskin Glass Engraving will likely agree with. Simon Knowles is a glass engraver who works with his hands and not with computers or lasers. As such, he's reverted back to craftsmanship associated with Victorian times. Intaglio engraving, commissioned portraits (humans and pets alike, including weddings) and personalised glasses are his specialism, but his style is unique - probably on a global level. He taught himself 15 years ago and uses a dentist tool to create hypnotically detailed tones and shades, those that work particularly well with his horror genre portraits. Creating his business after falling ill, it was an exhibition he did for the Amy Winehouse Foundation at Proud Galleries in London that was the catalyst that gave him confidence, leading him to create demand in an otherwise niche market. With a belief that glass work should be accessible to all, his creations are affordable and when they evoke heartfelt thanks from customers, are rewarding, too. Prices vary. Personalised glassware is available from £25 -£500, while portraits are £95 -£600; the image of Amy Winehouse, pictured, is £260. Check out the store's social media for more images - @notonyourskin and click here to enter an exclusive competition with prizes worth over £600 which we are running in association with Afflecks' 3rd floor. If you'd like an excuse to pop along to check out the goods on offer at notynyourskin, there's a free, 3rd floor party taking place on Saturday 21 July from 10am-6pm, with giveaways, discounts, goodie bags and more - as well as the chance to check out 15 independent retailers work in the heart of the city centre. Click here for more details. Notonyourskin Glass Engraving, 3rd Floor, Afflecks, 52 Church Street, Manchester M4 1PW. Tel: 07835 535 312, www.notonyourskin.co.uk A Manchester Wire partnership post.

10.07.2018.

Win: a customised guitar from Doodlebug on Afflecks 3rd Floor.

Have you ever seen something fascinating but a bit dangerous on YouTube, wanted to have a go, but thought better of it? Well, Doodlebug is your inner Evel Knievel. Watching a video of wood being electrocuted was the catalyst to what Doodlebug is today, creating affordable one-of-a-kind customised guitars that have the wrath of the elements searing through its bodywork. After returning from teaching English abroad he wanted to make a living off his passion for guitars, and heard through the grapevine that Affleck's Palace was a haven for independent traders. The decision was almost instant once he paid the creative hub a visit. He began customising guitars with licks of paint and driving nails into the body. Now, he uses microwave coils and watches electricity eat through the wood (and slightly less dangerously, a wood burning tool for more precise pieces). Given the nature of material used, results can vary - which makes these unique creations all the more individual and exciting. The guitar pictured is Wood Burn Fossil (£200), while other options include a lightening strike Telecaster (£175), and a lightening strike (£200). Check out the stores social media for more - Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Or pop along to a free party taking place on Afflecks 3rd Floor on Saturday 21 July from 10am-6pm, with giveaways, discounts, goodie bags and more – as well as the chance to check out 15 independent retailers including Stag and Raven art and lifestyle store and Egoiste Gallery. Click here for more details. Like to get your hands on a guitar such as the one pictured? Click here to enter our competition to win a £600 haul, packed with finds from the independent retailers on Afflecks 3rd Floor, including a unique, customised guitar from Doodlebug. Terms and conditions apply. Doodlebug, 3rd Floor, Afflecks Palace, 52 Church Street, Manchester M4 1PW Tel: 07422 542 581, www.afflecks.com A Manchester Wire partnership post.

02.07.2018 - 20.07.2018.

Win: £600 worth of goodies from the independent retailers on Afflecks 3rd Floor.

We’ve teamed up with the independent retailers on Afflecks 3rd Floor to offer a massive summer competition with more than £600 worth of goodies up for grabs. Afflecks 3rd floor is packed with everything from prints and engravings to customised guitars and original artworks. A treasure trove in the heart of the Northern Quarter, it's the perfect place to find a one-off gift, or something special for your home - and five of the floor's finest retailers have teamed up to offer a prize like no other. This haul includes all of the following:- £100 Lightning Strike Electric Blue guitar from Doodlebug £80 custom engraved Sailor Jerrys glass from notonyourskin glass engraving £10 each 2 x custom glass prints from notonyourskin glass engraving £100 Prince Art Set (framed print, notebook, mug and card) from Egoiste Gallery £42 framed This is Manchester art print from Stag and Raven - pictured £36 large Stag and Raven Mandala print £42 A3 Crystallise print from Stag and Raven £36 large Hedgerow Mandala Print from Stag and Raven £50 Stag and Raven gift voucher £100 various Lego sets from Star Wars Man To be in with a chance of winning, simply fill in our competition form below. By signing up, you will be automatically added to our mailing list so look out for the confirmation email to receive our regular newsletter round ups. Please note: by entering your email address will be shared with the stores taking part in this competition (Stag & Raven, Notonyourskin, Doodlebug and Egoiste Gallery). They will not share your email address with other organisations, but you may be subscribed to their mailing lists and receive marketing communications from them. Competition ends Thursday 2 August at midnight and the winner will be announced via social media and email on Friday 3 August. Afflecks 3rd Floor is open six days a week - see opening times below. If you'd like to pop in, there's also an open day and floor-wide party with discounts, free stuff and more on Saturday 21 July from 10am-6pm. Click here for more about the party. If you'd like to know more about the individual retailers, check out our profiles of Not on Your Skin and Stag and Raven - and look out for profiles of Egoiste and Doodblebug coming soon. Afflecks, 52 Church Street, M4 1PW, Mon-Fri 10.30am-6pm, Sat 10am-6pm, www.afflecks.com [gravityform id="1" title="false" description="false"] A Manchester Wire partnership post.

10.07.2018.

Free tickets: Meet Team GB ski star Menna Fitzpatrick & 1hr lift pass at Chill Factore.

Chill Factore is offering winter sports fans the chance to meet Team GB’s multiple-medal winning Paralympian, Menna Fitzpatrick. She's returning to her former training slope at Chill Factore on Tuesday 10 July to inspire the next generation. There are limited free-of-charge tickets available for this event - click here for more - and you can also enter our competition for the chance to secure four tickets for you and your friends. At the event, Menna will be sharing her get top tips, and there will be the chance to ask questions and hear Menna’s story before putting her advice into practice with a one-hour lift pass on the longest indoor real snow slope in the UK. The 20-year-old alpine skier, who won a total of four medals at the Pyeongchang Winter Olympic Games earlier this year, including a Bronze, two Silvers and a Gold in the Slalom event with her guide, Jennifer Kehoe, is visually impaired and has only 5% of her vision. She learned to ski from the age of 5 by following her dad down the slopes on family holidays. Since then, she’s become the first British skier to win the overall World Cup visually impaired title in Aspen in 2016. Menna is part of the Chill Factore's Sponsored Athlete Programme, an annual initiative which seeks to recognise the talents of young local athletes in winter sports. Menna was awarded a place on the programme in 2011; she went on to train for five years before to being selected for Team GB. For a chance to win four tickets to meet Menna, simply complete our entry online entry form below. By entering you will automatically be subscribed to our mailing list, keeping you in the loop about the best things happening in Manchester each week. We don't share your information with anyone else, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Deadline for entries: midnight on Sunday 8 July. The winner will be announced on Monday 9 July. Tue 10 Jul, Chill Factore, Trafford Quays Leisure Village, Trafford Way, Stretford, Manchester M41 7JA. Tel: 0161 749 2222, 10.30am-1.15pm, FREE, www.chillfactore.com [gravityform id="1" title="false" description="false"] Terms and Conditions – Menna Fitzpatrick Meet & Greet Winners 1. The prize includes complimentary tickets for up to 2 Adults and 2 children to attend the Menna Fitzpatrick meet and greet 2. Ticket includes one hour lift pass for all winners, who are required to meet minimum main slope standard in order to redeem the lift pass. 3. Offer must be redeemed on the date of the event – 10/07/18 4. Winners must arrive 30 minutes prior to the event start time to collect and change into their complimentary clothing, gloves and snow boot hire. 5. Chill Factore cannot accept liability for late arrivals and reserve the right to amend the prize package without prior notice. 6. Children under 10 years old must be accompanied by a participating adult. 7. Chill Factore management reserves the right to withdraw this promotion or cancel any booking that contravenes these terms at any time without any advanced warning or prior notification. 8. The prize is non-transferable. A Manchester Wire partnership post.

09.05.2018 - 30.06.2018.

Top 10: May food & drink offers inc. Hawksmoor, Comptoir Libanais & more.

With two extra days off for drinking and dining, this month can be tough on the wallet. We've selected the best restaurant deals to help you make the most of Manchester in May, with no need to fret about the cost. For light Monday dining, try Sakana's 50% off sushi and sashimi offer, or have an all-out feast with the Comptoir Libanais' Ramadan menu. The Beagle's Taco Tuesdays spices up midweek, while Hawksmoor's set menu runs the weekend long. Hawksmoor – Two course £25 Express Menu including all day Sunday If you want to try Hawksmoor without the hefty price-tag, book ahead and opt for the express menu option. Choose from rump steak (fillet for an extra fiver), house-cured salmon or ricotta and rye tart. The Yorkshire rhubarb pavlova is pudding perfection. Hawksmoor Manchester, 184-186 Deansgate, Manchester M3 3WB, Tel: 0161 836 6980, Mon-Sat, noon-3pm & 5-6.30pm, all day Sun, www.thehawksmoor.com Sakana – 50% off sushi & sashimi on Monday Sushi dinners are a treat we wish we could enjoy more often. And now, we can with Sakana's 'Sushi Monday' offer of 50% off sushi and sashimi all day. If that isn't enough of a steal already, it's 2 for 1 on cocktails between 2-6pm. Sakana, 23 Peter Street Manchester, M2 5QR. Tel: 0161 884 1292, Mon 2-11pm, www.sakanapan-asian.co.uk Marble - £6.50 Deli Slabs Marble Arch has a reputation as one of the best boozers in the city, but the food isn't half bad either. Besides their menu of British small plates, Marble run a Deli Slabs selection for £6.50. Options include a shredded cuban style Mojo pork or Moroccan spiced vegan meatballs slab, both served in rosemary focaccia with chips and salad. Marble Arch, 73 Rochdale Road, Manchester M4 4HY. Tel: 0161 8325914. Sun-Thu noon-11pm, Sat & Sun noon-midnight www.marblebeers.com Twenty Twenty Two - Happy Hour ft. £15 prosecco bottles The basement ping pong bar's generous Happy Hour runs from Monday to Friday, 4-7pm and includes £15 bottles of prosecco, £10 bottles of wine, £5 cocktails and beer for £2.80. Leave the ping pong prowess to the Olympians, we'll have another glass of fizz, thanks. Mon-Fri, Twenty Twenty Two, 20 Dale Street, M1 1EZ. Tel: 0161 237 9360, 4-7pm, www.twentytwentytwo.co.uk Rosso – £16.95 twp course lunch menu Favoured by Manchester's footballer-types, Rosso pitches itself as an 'upmarket Italian'. Swanky, it might be, but pricey? Not really. The lunch deal sits at £16.95 for two courses, and a bottle of wine (shared between two) is just £9.95. Choose from starters of purple potato ravioli with blue cheese and walnuts or pan seared cod cheek, and mains of braised pork belly, sirloin steak and roasted cauliflower. Rosso, 43 Spring Gardens, Manchester, M2 2BG. Tel: 0161 832 1400, Mon-Thu, noon-6pm. www.rossorestaurants.com Lunya - £9.95 lunchtime tapas The Barton Arcade deli and restaurant's midday Tapas deal makes for a perfect light lunch with two plates for £9.95 and three for £13.95. Traditional Catalan dishes on the menu include Albóndigas (meatballs in a garlic tomato sauce), seafood fideuà (noodle paella cooked with squid ink) and manchego cheese with quince jelly. Lunya, Barton Arcade, Deansgate, Manchester, M3 2BB, Tel: 0161 413 3317, Mon-Fri & Sun, noon-5pm only, www.lunya.co.uk The Beagle - £1.50 tacos on Tuesdays From the team behind Northern Quarter's Common and the Indy Man Beer Con, The Beagle in Chorlton is known for a good craft beer board, and a sun trap terrace. Liven up the start of the week with their Taco Tuesday deal, and catch tacos for £1.50 and Margaritas for a fiver. The Beagle, 456-458 Barlow Moor Road, Chorlton, Manchester, M21 0BQ. Tel: 0161 881 8596, Tue noon-10pm, www.beaglesabout.com Comptoir Libanais – five-course £24.95 Ramadan feasting menu Comptoir Libanais founder Tony Kitous has launched a Ramadan set menu of Middle-Eastern and North African dishes. Available from 6pm, the 5-course feasting menu starts with something light to break the fast - dates with honey yogurt - and a mezze selection including fattoush salad and beetroot labneh dip. Choose from mains of chicken and olive tagine, mixed grill kofta or aubergine moussaka. Tue 15 May - Thu 14 Jun, Comptoir Libanais, 18-19 The Avenue, Manchester, M3 3HF. Tel: 0161 672 3999 www.comptoirlibanais.com The Blue Pig - £25 sharing platter and wine for two It seemed like the end for The Blue Pig when it closed suddenly in January alongside sister bars Odd and Oddest. Happily, the Northern Quarter institution has been given a new lease of life from the team behind Walrus, Rosylee and Tusk. Head along one Monday to see what they've done with the place, and take advantage of their £25 charcuterie sharing platter and bottle of wine deal. The Blue Pig, 69 High Street, Manchester, M4 1FS. Tel: 0161 806 0794, Mon, noon-10pm, www.thebluepigmcr.co.uk The Pen & Pencil - 50% off food on Mondays You can't fault a 50% off food deal to make Monday more manageable. This month, The Pen & Pencil have just the remedy for your back-in-the-office blues, with half price food from their New York inspired menu (when booking in advance online). The Pen & Pencil, Fourways House, 57 Hilton Street, Manchester, M1 2EJ. Tel: 0161 660 3303, Mon, 10am-9pm, www.thepenandpencilnq.co.uk

29.03.2018 - 30.04.2018.

Top 10: April Food & Drink Offers ft. Seven Bro7hers, Alberts + more.

To say spring has sprung might be a stretch, but it is certainly brighter outside. We're celebrating the longer evenings with some midweek wining and dining, and have sleuthed around for 10 great food offers to take advantage of this April. From craft brew house Seven Bro7hers' beer and a burger deal, to Albatross and Arnold's small plates with wine offer. Deansgate Italian, Cibo, give you money off your bill from Monday to Friday, and Tampopo's reasonably priced express menu might be the perfect mid-week lunch break treat. Albatross & Arnold's wine and small plates Spinningfields' restaurant Albatross & Arnold opened its doors at the end of 2018 above Manchester's first urban golf club, The Range. As good as, or better than hitting a hole-in-one is their latest food offer of two small plates and a side from their menu, with a glass of wine for £17. Dishes include Lancashire blue cheese 'bon bons' and roasted pigeon breast. Offer runs Monday to Sunday 11am-11pm. Albatross & Arnold, Leftbank, Spinningfields, Manchester M3 3AN. Tel: 0161 325 4444. www.therange.uk.com Laundrette's 'Cocktail and Carbs' Tuesday Chorlton's laid-back diner launches a cocktails and carbs deal for April. Each Tuesday they have 5 different mac and cheeses on the go. Order a drink from their extensive menu of classic and house cocktails, and settle in for a midweek dinner of comfort food and a fancy tipple. The Laundrette, 32 Beech Rd, Manchester M21 9EL. Tel: 0161 881 5777 The Stonemasons Arms steak night The Stonemasons pub in Timperley reopened following a full refurbishment by the team behind The Dog and Partridge in Didsbury. Book in to see what they've done with the place, and try the Wednesday two steaks and a bottle of wine deal for £30 (so £15 per person). Choose rump or gammon, with sauces and sides, served with a bottle of Nero D'Avola Italian red. The Stonemasons Arms, 365 Stockport Rd, Timperley, Altrincham, WA15 7UR. Tel: 0161 980 3759 www.stonemasons.pub Cibo midweek discount The paint is barely even dry yet at Cibo (the new Naples-inspired restaurant that has replaced Per-Tutti on Deansgate) and they have caught our attention with some great midweek offers. Starting with 50% off on Monday, 40% off on Tuesday, 30% off on Wednesday - you get the picture. Cibo, 3-11 Liverpool Street, Manchester, M3 4NW. Tel: 0161 834 9741 www.cibo.uk.com The Deaf Institute's BOGOF mains Heading to a gig in The Deaf Institute's stunning roof space? Be sure to take advantage of their buy one get one free offer on all main dishes on the menu. So that's a burger, or a bowl of sweet potato Thai curry for £4. Can't argue with that. So called 'F'wednesdays' runs from 4pm until 10pm on Wednesdays. Deaf Institute, 135 Grosvenor Street, M1 7HE. Tel: 0161 276 9350 http://www.thedeafinstitute.co.uk Seven Bro7hers £10 beer and a burger deal Ancoats will soon be the place to go for fantastic food in Manchester, with the likes of Pollen and Trove moving out East. Seven Bro7hers were ahead of the game with their craft beer bar decked out in untreated wood. Catch their beer and a burger deal for £10 (a classic house burger and a pint of Seven Bro7hers beer). Runs daily. Seven Bro7hers Beerhouse, Ice Plant Building, 39 Blossom Street, Ancoats Manchester M4 6AJ. Tel: 0161 228 2404 www.sevenbro7hers.com Grafene's British Tapas The King Street restaurant's daily British Tapas offer gives you a chance try head chef Ben Mounsey's cooking, without shelling out a small fortune. All the dishes are drawn from Grafene's evening menu of British classics with a modern slant. Options include Rendered duck leg with herbs, beet piccalilli, or curried mussels, chapati and kaffir. This easter weekend Grafene are also treating us to a free surprise dessert. Offer available daily, midday until 3pm and 5pm-6.30pm. Choose 3 dishes for £17.50 (or 5 for £25). Grafene, 55 King Street, Manchester, M2 4 QL www.grafene.co.uk Artisan's Mugshot Monday Start the week as you mean to go on, with Artisan's offer of 40% off the food bill on Mondays. Meat and fish are the focus of the menu, with half or whole chicken, steak, pork belly and baked sea bass all featuring. The offer is only available when booking ahead, and does sell out so be sure to check in first. There's also a photo booth on site to capture that time you spent all the money you saved on food on extra cocktails instead. Artisan, The Avenue, 18-22 Bridge Street, Manchester M3 3BZ www.artisan.uk.com Tampopo express menu Fresh and colourful dishes from across South-East Asia are the order of the day at Tampopo. Their express lunch menu offers a varied selection for the same price as your supermarket selection. Mains start from £6.95 (spicy rebus noodle soup) whilst small plates of corn fritters or Gyoza dumplings are just £3.95. Available Monday to Friday until 5pm. Tampopo, 16 Albert Square, Manchester, M2 5PF (and various other locations). Tel: 0161 819 1966. www.tampopo.co.uk The Albert Square Chop House set lunch menu Arrange for a long lunch and head to Albert Square Chop House for their set lunch menu. 2 courses will set you back just £16 and three courses £19. One for the traditionalist, the menu consists of classics such as mussels and chips, bacon chop with mash and gravy, and lemon posset or rice pudding for dessert. Offer available Monday to Thursday midday-3pm. The Albert Square Chop House, 14 Albert Square, Manchester M2 5PF. Tel: 0161 834 3210. www.samschophouse.com.

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05.03.2018 - 31.03.2018.

Top 12: March food & drink offers inc. Wood, El Gato Negro & Volta.

Our March food offers include superb deals at Manchester’s favourite drinking and dining establishments. This month we have a 'buy one pie, get one pie for £1' deal at Pie & Ale, Bunny Jackson's 10p wings, a 3- dish lunch deal at El Gato Negro and pizza, a pint and a film for just £15.50 at Home. Read on for more great offers to see you through March on a budget. Bunny Jackson's 10p chicken wings on Wednesdays Yes, you read that right: the New Orleans-inspired Bourbon bar near HOME cinema runs a regular Wednesday offer of 10p wings. So, in case you were in doubt, that's one wing for 10p. Spend just £3 and you could challenge yourself to eat 30 wings, not that we would advise you to, of course. Bunny Jackson’s, First Street, Manchester, M15 4RA. Food served Mon-Sun 12-9pm. www.bunnyjacksons.co.uk Pie & Ale buy one, get one for £1 pies Buy one Pie, and get one pie for £1 at Pie & Ale all day on Mondays. Happy hour runs from 4pm to &pm Monday to Friday and includes pints of cider and beer for £3.20 and a bottle of house wine for £13. Pie & Ale, 1-2, The Hive, 47 Lever Street, Manchester, M1 1FN. Tel: 0161 228 1610. www.pieandale.com Pizza, drink & film for £15.50 at HOME For a midweek date night HOME have an all inclusive deal that sorts out your whole evening. For £15.50 have a choice of their stone-baked pizzas teamed with a glass of house wine or Dortmunder Vier, and a ticket to a film of our choice. Offer available Monday and Tuesday evenings only. HOME, 2 Tony Wilson Place, Manchester, M15 4FN. Tel: 0161 200 1500. www.homemcr.org. El Gato Negro £15 lunch offer (pictured) The King Street tapas joint has a lunch menu deal of 3 dishes from the menu for £15. Choose from the likes of chargrilled chicken thighs with lemon and garlic, salt cod croquetas and cuts of Serrano ham with celeriac remoulade. The offer is available from Tuesday to Friday between noon and 3pm. El Gato Negro, 52 King Street, Manchester, M2 4LY, Tel: 0161 694 8585, www.elgatonegrotapas.com Volta's £7.50 spread The award-winning West Didsbury restaurant has a £7.50 deal including a smoked feta and beetroot dip with hazelnut and dill served with flatbreads, baba ghanoush, chargrilled cauliflower with caraway and pomegranate and chargrilled chicken skewers with tahini and lemon oil. Perfect with a cocktail. The deal runs from Monday to Friday 12-6.30pm and Saturday from 12-3pm. Volta, 167 Burton Road, West Didsbury, M20 2LN, Tel: 0161 448 8887, www.voltafoodanddrink.co.uk 50% off pizza at PLY on Mondays Sign up for one of PLY's membership cards (just a quick form on their website) and receive a card which gives you 10% of everything Sunday-Thursday, and access to some great deals including 50% off pizzas on Mondays, pizza and a pint for £12 on Tuesdays and pizza and a Bloody Mary to sort out your hangover on Sunday. PLY, 26 Stevenson Square, M1 1DW, Tel: 0161 711 0401, www.plymcr.co.uk Eat at Wood for £22 Grace Dent's rave Guardian review of Wood has garnered more attention for Simon Wood's Manchester venture. Read our review here, and see what the fuss is about (without parting with too much cash) by booking in for their Theatre Menu deal. Enjoy 2 courses for £22.50, or 3 courses for £27.50, choosing from dishes such as a gurnard escabeche starter, a main of chicken with broccoli and Diane sauce and a Yorkshire rhubarb brulee for dessert. The menu is available between noon-2.15pm Tuesday to Saturday, 5-6.30pm Tuesday to Thursday and 5-6pm on Friday and Saturday. Wood, Jack Rosenthal Street, First Street, Manchester, M15 4RA. Tel: 0161 236 5211. www.woodmanchester.com Shoryu Ramen's £15 set lunch menu Shoryu's lunchtime offer will have you full and happy for just £15. Choose from a Shoryu Bao Bun filled with Chicken Karaage or Halloumi and mushrooms, and a main of Ganso Tonkotsu or white natural ramen. The offer is available from Monday to Friday. Shoryu Ramen, 1 Piccadilly Gardens, Manchester, M1 1RG. Tel: 020 3405 7550, opening times vary, www.shoryuramen.com 50% off food at Rosylee on Mondays Stevenson Square's Rosylee runs a regular Monday night deal of half price food for everyone each week. So that's slow braised beef for £7.50 or beer battered halloumi fish and chips for £5.50. On Mother's Day (Sun 11 Mar) Rosylee have lined up specials including Eggs Benedict with Bucks Fizz for £10. Rosylee, 11 Stevenson Square, Manchester, M1 1DB. Tel: 0161 228 6629. www.rosylee.com Happy hour with 2 cocktails for £10 at V-Rev The vegan diner has a tempting midweek deal on their house cocktails. Its 2 for £10 during happy hour between 3 and 7pm Monday to Thursday. V Rev, 20-26 Edge Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester, M4 1HN, www.vrevmcr.co.uk Coffee + pastry for £2.95 Carluccio's In the morning rush for the train, it's worth remembering that Carluccio's at Picadilly offer a coffee (any coffee) and a pastry for £2.95 – much cheaper than the other stations outlets. Carluccio's, First Floor, Piccadilly Station, Station Approach, Manchester www.carluccios.com. For more food and drink news in Manchester click here.

Rites by Company Chameleon. Photo by Joel Chester Fildes.

01.03.2018 - 02.03.2018.

Coming soon: Company Chameleon's decade of dance, 10, at The Lowry.

Get three shows for the price of one with new dance project 10, staged this March by Company Chameleon at The Lowry, marking a decade of dance for the Trafford-born troupe. Having originally met at Trafford Youth Dance Theatre in the mid-1990s, Chameleon co-founders Kevin Edward Turner and Anthony Missen went over the hills to train at the Northern School of Contemporary Dance, consequently travelling extensively and working with some of the world’s top dancers, before returning home and setting up their own company in 2007. Nominated for Best Independent Company at the National Dance Awards in 2015, critically acclaimed Chameleon tour widely in the UK and abroad, and perform over 50 indoor and outdoor performances every year, including the sold-out site-specific production Illuminate at Manchester Central Library just before Christmas. For even more for your moolah, part of this, Quest, will be performed by Chameleon Youth to preface the world premiere of 10, which itself is made up of three separate pieces. Opening is a retrospective, Rites, the first major work co-created by Turner and Missen 10 years ago and the one which launched Company Chameleon onto the dance scene. It’s a male duet that follows the journey from boyhood to manhood, and it nicely sets up the companion pieces, which also explore human and personal issues via engaging and athletic choreography. Imprint – about love, romance and relationships – is new from Kevin Edward Turner, while Anthony Missen’s latest solo, Trip, takes the audience into the dark arena of self-deception, and looks at the fine line between true and false identity. All together, 10 showcases Chameleon’s trademark style of creating socially-relevant dance theatre that is both powerful and original, inspiring and insightful, and promises to offer a true celebration of their 10 years together. Thu 1 & Fri 2 Mar, The Lowry, Pier 8, The Quays, Salford, M50 3AZ, Tel: 0843 208 6000, 8pm, £10.50 - £16.50, www.thelowry.com For more dance events taking place at the Lowry, read our guide here.

09.02.2018 - 25.02.2018.

Book tickets: Circus Extreme at Manchester Event City.

This February, Manchester’s Event City welcomes Circus Extreme, a two-hour romp through some of the world's finest daredevil stunts and gymnastics - and we have 10 pairs of tickets up for grabs. Branded 'The World’s Most Extreme Circus', Circus Extreme combines the classic circus fare – clowns, trapeze, dance - with hair-raising stunt-based theatrics. On the more traditional side of things there’s the now-legendary Henry the Prince of Clowns hosting the show throughout. There’s also Laserman, whose laser fingers turn Event City’s big top into a sci-fi wilderness. As for extremes, FMX (stunt-bike) riders with the G-force of a fighter pilot on the Globe of Death are sure to get the adrenaline pumping. There’s also the high-wire antics of Danguir Troupe, including the 'double wheel of death'. Led by Mustafa Danger, the Troupe have never performed in the UK before, so this is definitely not one to miss. And let’s be honest – when are you next going to witness a contortionist shooting a bow and arrow with her feet? Event City is the country’s second largest venue outside London, and Circus Extreme will take place in the venue’s Circus Big Top, the biggest in the UK. The show runs for 17 nights from Friday 9 February. We have 10 pairs of tickets to give away. To be in with a chance of winning, simply enter your details below. Deadline for entry is Wednesday 7 February at midnight. Winners will be notified the next day. [gravityform id="1" title="false" description="false" ajax="false"] Fri 9 Feb – Sun 25 Feb, EventCity, Phoenix Way, Manchester M17 8AS. Tel: 0203 3753970, times and prices vary, www.circusextreme.co.uk For more thrilling events in Manchester and the surrounding area, read our 'wildcard' guide.

09.02.2018 - 23.09.2018.

Food & drink news ft. Cantor's, Mowgli, Prosecco fest & more.

February's food news features more exciting openings for the south Manchester suburb of Chorlton with Cantor's Food Store, an Ottolenghi's inspired deli restaurant announced for early March. Head chef Adam Reid from The French at The Midland Hotel announces a collaboration with Kevin Tickle of the Michelin-starred Cumbrian restaurant at The Forest Side. Rudy's Pizza have a second shop, as do Mowgli and there are some one-off foodie events to get us through the cold February weekends. Opening soon: Cantor's Food Store in Chorlton It's an exciting time for Chorlton with the opening of Mary Ellen McTague's The Creameries, and the announcement this week that the leafy South Manchester suburb will be soon be home to a new deli restaurant. Inspired by Yotam Ottolenghi's successful London eateries, we expect flavours to draw from the mediterranean and the Middle East, relaxed dining and a decent shop with dishes pre-made to take away or eat in. Behind the venture is Eddy Cantor, local food enthusiast who has previously owned delis in London and worked as a private chef. Opening early March, 72-74 Manchester Road, Chorlton, Manchester M21 9PQ. Watch out for: Adam Reid and Kevin Tickle at The French Kevin Tickle at The French: Head chef at the Michelin-starred Forest Side country house hotel in Cumbria comes to the French for a collaboration with resident chef Adam Reid. Former 'chief forager' at L'enclume, Kevin Tickle is known for creating modern, seasonal dishes using ingredients on offer from the surrounding area. Keep an eye on The French's website for similar upcoming events. Wed 14 Mar, The French at the Midland Hotel, Peter Street, M60 2DS. the-french.co.uk Opening in 2018: Mowgli on Oxford Road Popular Indian street food restaurant Mowgli announces plans to expand to a second location on Oxford Road. The Indian restaurant chain's Corn Exchange branch has been a roaring success with both it's Indian home cooking and extensive cocktail menu proving to be a hit. Along with the opening of the new Hatch development, the city's eating options seem to be stealthily drifting out of the city livening up an area of the city that was once the domain of the greasy kebab shop. Opening Sep '18, exact location TBA. www.mowglistreetfood.com Last chance to book: Prosecco festival at Manchester Cathedral For fans of the fizz, a Prosecco festival is coming to Manchester Cathedral this February. The 'Sparkling Prosecco Event' feature over 20 different types of Prosecco, Champagne and bubbly-based cocktails. The spectacular cathedral setting will also play host to live DJs, food stalls and a craft ale bar. Fri 23 – Sat 24 Feb, Manchester Cathedral, Victoria Street, Manchester, M3 1SX. Tickets £9 - £22 www.eventbrite.co.uk In Short Opening soon: Rudy's Neapolitan Pizza 2nd shop The Ancoats based pizzeria have officially announced the imminent opening of their second branch on Peter Street, near parent company's other venture, Albert's Schloss. It's been on the cards for a while but with a date of mid-March for the opening, the rumours are finally being realised. Read our full story here. From mid-March, Peter Street, Manchester M2 5QR, @RudysPizzaMcr Deal of the week: Albert's Schloss If you are missing the January food bargains, there are still some savings to be made in February. Recently raved about by The Guardian's Jay Rayner, Albert's Schloss are offering 50% off food up until this Fri. Only available when booking online. Mon-Fri (up until Fri 9 Feb), Albert’s Schloss, 27 Peter Street, Manchester M2 5QR. albertsschloss.co.uk Last chance to book: The Cheese Fest The Cheese Fest is coming to Trafford Park's Bowler's Exhibition Centre with all the cheese-based fun you could hope for in one place. The BEC hosts the independent manufacturers, hot food stalls and beer and wine suppliers to help match the perfect wines and beers with you favourite stilton. One for the Turophile (cheese connoisseur) in your life. Sat 24 – Sun 25 Feb. Bowler's Exhibition Centre, Longbridge Road, Trafford Park, Stretford, Manchester M17 1SN.Tickets £3 - £5 www.eventbrite.co.uk Tap takeover: Magic Rock Brewery at The Beagle Magic Rock Brewery have just announced they will host a Tap takeover at the Beagle in Chorlton later this month. The Huddersfield based brewer will showcase the Brother Chucker, an IPA collaboration with Spanish based company, Basqueland Brewing. FREE, Fri 23 Feb, The Beagle, 456-458 Barlow Moor Road, Chorlton, Manchester M21 0BQ. www.beaglesabout.com For more food and drink events click here.

03.04.2018.

Book now: Canadian circus act Flip FabriQue's Catch Me at The Lowry.

Following in the fleet footsteps of fellow Canadians Cirque du Soleil is the contemporary circus troupe Flip FabriQue, bringing their latest show Catch Me (or Attrape-Moi, if you’d prefer it en français) to The Lowry for one date only. Telling the tale of friends reunited, the set is the cottage which the six used to share 10 years previously – and which becomes the backdrop to some jaw-dropping stunts. Props range from hula hoops and diabolos to the rather less expected deckchairs and oversized beach balls, and you can expect to enjoy highly skilled circus tricks, acrobatics, tumbling, aerial work – and a trampoline finale. Over from Quebec, and already tried and tested in London and Edinburgh, Flip FabriQue offer a dizzying spectacle that's perfect fun for all the family; awe-inspiring for kids, with the nouveau cirque edge appealing to adults. Hotfoot it over to the Quays – this is one to, er, attrape! Wed 3 Apr, The Lowry, Pier 8, The Quays, Salford, M50 3AZ, Tel: 0843 208 6000, 3pm & 7.30pm, £15, thelowry.com

Volta-fig-and-halloumi-credit-bacon-on-the-beech

01.01.2018 - 01.02.2018.

Top 10: January food & drink offers ft. Iberica, Volta, Tampopo & more.

What better way to spend January's long dark evenings than by exploring the city's best bars and restaurants without breaking the bank. And with so many great January offers popping up, it seems silly not to, right? We've rounded up the best of the bunch, with free wine at Randall & Aubin, a whole host of half price offers at The Font, Walrus, Trof, Tampopo and more. Plus a chance to grab some fantastic small plate deals at the likes of Cottonopolis and Volta. Clearly not the month to be watching the waistline, let that be February's problem instead. Albatross & Arnold - 50% off food and drink Spinningfield newbie Albatross & Arnold have just opened up above Manchester's urban golf club The Range. They have a generous deal going to celebrate, with half price plates during the day and half price drinks at night. Book online to take advantage. Albatross & Arnold, Leftbank, Spinningfields, Manchester M3 3AN. Tel: 0161 325 4444. www.therange.uk.com All Star Lanes - 50% off food Bowling strike after strike is bound to build up an appetite, and All Star Lanes have a 50% off deal that means you can order a tableful after all that strenuous activity. It's big American eating, with Whole Lobster, Buttermilk fried chicken and Hanger steak on the menu. Book online to get the deal. Great Northern Warehouse, 235 Deansgate, M3 4EN. Tel: 0161 871 3600 www.allstarlanes.co.uk Chilli Banana – 50% off food If you've had your fill of heavy wintery meat dishes over the Christmas period, from Sunday to Thursday popular northern Thai food chain Chilli Banana are offering a half price food menu. 105-107 Lapwing Lane, Didsbury, M20 6UR. Tel: 0161 434 4558. www.chillibanana.co.uk Cottonopolis - £15 for set menu Stylish Northern Quarter bar and restaurant Cottonopolis have a tempting set menu of small plates from their Japanese-inspired menu. For £15 you can try their Pork Hamaruki (spring rolls), Teiaki chicken wings, Tuna Nori tacos and more. Offer available for parties of two or more, booking is essential. Cottonopolis, 16 Newton Street, Manchester M1 2AE. Tel: 0161 236 5144. bookings@cottonopolis-nq.com. Font bars - 50% off food The Font are running a 50% off food offer throughout January at all three of their Manchester branches. So in case you were in doubt, that's a burger and fries for 3 quid. Their city centre branch is also topping off the deal with 25% off house cocktails all day. Offer available 11am-5pm or 2-5pm depending on which branch you visit. Font bars: Font New Wakefield, 7-9 New Wakefield Street, Manchester M1 5NP. Tel: 061 236 0944, offer available 2pm-5pm; Font Fallowfield 236-238 Wilmslow Road, Fallowfield, Manchester M14 6LE. Tel: 0161 248 4820, offer available 2pm-5pm; Font Chorlton 115-117 Manchester Road, Chorlton, M21 9PG. Tel: 0161 871 2022. www.thefontbar.wordpress.com Iberica - 50% off food For a midweek treat head to Iberica, and get eat for half the price, or eat twice as much as you normally would – your choice. Everything from the a la carte menu is 50% off from Monday to Thursday, but only if you book online. Offer available Mon-Thu. Iberica, The Avenue, Spinningfields, 3 Hardman Street, Manchester, M3 3HS. Tel: 0161 358 1350 www.ibericarestaurants.com PLY - 50% off pizza Pizzas at Ply are half price if you book a table quoting 'JAN50'. Each diner must buy a drink to get the deal, but I'm sure we can manage that. Offer available Mon-Sun. PLY, 26 Lever Street, Manchester M1 1DW. Tel: 0161 711 0401. www.plymcr.co.uk Randall & Aubin - free wine For some, January is a time of abstinence. Thankfully, not for us, as Manchester's only dedicated fish restaurant Randall & Aubin are offering a free carafe of wine to enjoy with lunch or dinner. Booking essential. Randall & Aubin, 64 Bridge Street, Manchester M3 3BN. Tel: 0161 711 1007. www.randallandaubin.com Rosylee - 50% off food Rosylee in the NQ will see you through these grey January days with another great 50% off deal. This one includes all their usual home comfort mains, meat from the grill and their Sunday roasts. Pre-book online or over the phone to get the deal. Rosylee, 11 Stevenson Square, Manchester, M1 1DB. Tel: 0161 228 6629. www.rosylee.com Tampopo - 30% off mains Love Asian-inspired ramen, stir fries and freshly spiced curries? Check out Tampopo's winter offer of 30% off mains such as 6hr slow cooked beef rendag with coconut, chilli, shallots, galangal and lemongrass. Served with roti and smashed cucumber. Various locations, Tampopo restaurants, www.tampopo.co.uk Tariff and Dale - 50% off food Another 50% off deal, so many, so little time. This one's at Tariff and Dale, the Northern Quarter bar serving seasonal classics. Applies to the mains, but not the grill. Offer available from 5pm, Mon – Fri. From 11 Jan, Tariff & Dale, 2 Tariff Street, Manchester M1 2FN. Tel: 0161 710 2233. www.tariffanddale.com The Albert Square Chop House, Sam's Chop House and Mr Thomas's Chop House - 50% off food and drink Manchester's three favourite chop houses are running a 50% off deal throughout January. So take your pick from the menu of hearty british favourites, like their Steamed Scottish Mussels and chips, or go straight for a half-price sirloin, medium rare, thank you. Book on their website to get the deal. Available al day, everyday, except Saturday evening. The Albert Square Chop House, 14 Albert Square, Manchester M2 5PF. Mr Thomas's Chop House, 52 Cross St, Manchester M2 7AR. Sam's Chop House, Back Pool Fold, Manchester M2 1HN. Tel: 0161 834 3210. www.samschophouse.com. The Bay Horse Tavern - 50% off food If you haven't been before, now might be a good time to check out the recently refurbished boozer, The Bay Horse Tavern as they are offering 50% off throughout January when booking in advance. A self-proclaimed 'modern take on a victorian pub', try some of their small plates such as their ox cheek on toast and wild mushrooms and goats cheese. The Bay Horse Tavern, 35-37 Thomas Street, Manchester, M4 1NA. Tel: 0161 669 5799. www.thebayhorsetavern.co.uk Trof - 50% off food NQ favourite Trof has kept it simple this January. Everything on the food menu is half price from Monday to Friday throughout January. Book in advance to get the discount. Nothing more complicated than that. Trof, 8 Thomas Street, Manchester, M4 1EU. Tel: 0161 833 3197. www.trofnq.co.uk Volta - £10 for 4 plates No such thing as the January blues at the Unabombers West Didsbury restaurant, with an offer that is better than half price. For £10 (rather than the usual £25) treat yourself to four of their most popular small plates such as Salt & Pepper Squid with Squid Ink Mayo, Parsley & Garlic, Chargrilled Cauliflower, Caraway & Pomegranate and more. Drinks are cheap too, with a bottle of wine for a tenner and Prosecco for £15. Definitely one to book ahead as spaces are limited. Offer available Mon-Fri 12am-7pm. Volta, 167 Burton Road, West Didsbury, M20 2LN, Tel: 0161 448 8887, www.voltafoodanddrink.co.uk Walrus & Tusk - 50% off food For those of us who haven't just started a clean eating regime, Walrus and Tusk are offering 50% off pizzas, burgers, toasties and loaded fries throughout January. With £5 Daquiris, make it a boozy one too. Book ahead to get the deal – it runs all the time – except Saturdays when you can catch it between 12-3pm. Offer available Mon-Sun, times vary. Walrus, 78-88 High Street, Manchester, M4 1ES. Tel: 0161 828 8700 www.walrusmanchester.com. Image: From Volta's small plates selection by Bacon on the Beech

05.12.2017 - 15.12.2017.

Japanese Christmas menu at Shoryu Ramen in Piccadilly Gardens.

Forget the mince pies and book yourself in for a festive treat with Shoryu Ramen's Christmas menu. The three-course, set menu is a steal at £20 per person. Choose from crispy marinated fried chicken karaage or the Shoryu or Hirata bao buns to start. Next up has to be a bowl of Shoryu's signature ramen; noodles in tonkotsu pork broth, simmered for 12 hours for maximum flavour, and topped with barbecued pork belly. Or go for the cleansing white natural ramen with miso, fried tofu, nori seaweed and bamboo. For afters, team matcha cheesecake with a specially created red berry and sparkling sake cocktail only available this Christmas, called 'the Ginza Snowflake' (£5). Fancy Prosecco on the side? It's only £20 a bottle, so why not treat yourself. To be in with a chance of winning three courses from Shoryu Ramen's Christmas menu for four people, simply follow the instructions. Enter your email address into the top righthand corner of our home page to sign up to our mailing list. Send an email to competitions [at] ManchesterWire [dot] co [dot] uk. Please write ‘Shoryu Ramen Competition’ in the subject line and include your name, age (over 18s only), and Twitter name. Competition closes at midnight on Friday 15 December. Winners will be notified via Twitter and email the following day. The Christmas feasting menu is available until Tuesday 2 January 2018. For more great places to eat in Manchester, and the latest restaurant reviews, click here. Until Tue 2 Jan 2018, Shoryu Ramen, 1 Piccadilly Gardens, Manchester, M1 1RG. Tel: 020 3405 7550, opening times vary, www.shoryuramen.com Terms and conditions - Competition closes at midnight on Friday 15 December 2017 - Winner will receive a Christmas feast (the three-course Christmas menu) for four people at Shoryu Ramen Manchester and the prize must be taken by close of business on Tuesday 2 January 2018. - Entrants must be over 18 to enter - Winners will be notified via email (and Twitter) within two working days of closing and will be required to respond within 48 hours or the prize will be offered to another entrant. A partnership post.

13.12.2017 - 30.04.2018.

Manchester food & drink news ft. V Rev, Manhatta bar, Feed General Store, Idle Hands & more.

This week in food news we have plenty of comings and goings with a new premises for Idle Hands (finally!), a New York style bar from restaurant group Arc Inspirations, and a seasonal kitchen and cafe for Heaton Chapel residents. Keep your pennies for presents with plenty of festive offers from The Font, a happy hour at Elnecot in Ancoats and a bottomless brunch at Chapel Street leading indie brunch bar, Another Heart to Feed plus V Rev has reopened. New bar: New York inspired bar 'Manhatta' from Banyan group on Deansgate Arc Inspirations, the restaurant group behind Banyan in the Corn exchange have announced plans for a New York inspired bar in Deansgate's Royal London House. The Grade II listed building (formerly Nevisport) is set to become the third branch of their 'Manhatta' brand, and the first outside Leeds. There's been something of a glut of big apple style bars opening in Manchester of late, so by now we know the drill. An emphasis on cocktails, subdued lighting and a hint of art deco in the décor perhaps? Opening 2018, Royal London House 196 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 3WF. www.arcinspirations.com Festive street food at Levy Night Market For those who havn't quite finished (or, ahem, started) their Christmas shopping, the Levenshulme night market might just be the answer. With local traders for last minute gifts, some great street food stalls and a flowing bar... why set foot on Market Street if you don't have to? We're eyeing up the Polish pierogo from Olo Kitchen and the Ottö-Men's mezze. See also Grub's final Christmas Food Fair on Friday 15 and Saturday 16 December at Fairfield Social Club. Fri 15 Dec 2017, behind Levenshulme train station, Stockport Road, Levenshulme, Manchester, M19 3AB, 4pm-9pm, FREE, www.levymarket.com New shop, kitchen and cafe: Feed General Store in Heaton Chapel Pitched as a local, organic general store with a kitchen and cafe, we can't wait to try some of their bakes. An oozing speculoos caramel brownie looks dreamy. Bread comes from Lovingly Artisan and their specials, soups and salads change daily. Open now, Feed General Store, 393 Manchester Road, Stockport SK4 5BY. times varyfeedgeneralstore.co.uk Idle Hands Coffee Shop to reopen in January 2018 Idle hands have announced that they will be moving to a new home in January 2018. The much-loved independent coffee company lost their premises in the summer, but will be back up and running in the Northern Quarter very soon. Watch this space. Opening Jan 2018, location TBA. IN SHORT V Rev Vegan Diner has reopened. The menu might sound meaty, but everything from the kitchen is vegan. V Rev Vegan Diner, 20-26 Edge Street, Manchester M4 1HN. Tel: 0161 8393883. times vary, www.vrevmcr.co.uk The Font advent calendar of offers: Check out Font's twitter feed for their daily advent calendar deal. So far we've been treated to a free glass of prosecco and a christmas cocktail. The Font, 7-9 New Wakefield Street, Manchester, M1 5NP. Tel: 0161 2360944. Opening times vary. Happy hour offers including £3 wine at Elnecot: The industrial Ancoats restaurant and bar has introduced some pretty enticing happy hour deals (5pm-7pm, Mon-Fri) with £3 wine and beers and £5 cocktails. Elnecot, 41 Blossom Street, Cutting Room Square, Manchester, M4 6AJ. Tel: 07496 152373, times vary, www.elnecot.com Sunday roast at Artisan for under £10: Choose from roast topside of beef, whole roast chicken or honey glazed ham, served as a whole joint for two to share. Comes with sides and promises of 'lots of gravy'. We're in. Artisan, The Avenue, 18-22 Bridge St, Manchester M3 3BZ. £9.95, times vary, www.artisan.uk.com Another Heart to Feed bottomless brunch: Sundays in December, and this is your chance to catch their last one. Starting with a mimosa or espresso martini on arrival, you will be treated to a full Aussie brunch, a mince pie, and of course...bottomless prosecco. Sun 17 Dec, Another Heart to Feed, 77-79 Chapel Street, Manchester, Salford, M3 5BZ. 2-4pm, £35, www.anotherhearttofeed.com For more food and drink openings and news click here.

05.12.2017.

Win tickets: Interactive ‘meet the brewer’ tour with Beer Adventures app.

Stone Brewing Berlin is teaming up with new app Beer Adventures to offer fellow adventurers a beer taster tour around the Northern Quarter. Founded by Greg Koch and Steve Wagner, Stone Brewing opened up in San Diego, California in 1996, with breweries in Richmond, Virginia and Berlin as well. The guided tasting will include insight into the San Diegan history as well as plenty of samples from the latest brews from Stone Berlin. Beginning at Port Street Beer House, the mini-tour will then journey to Bundobust and Beermoth bottle shop, with people invited to use the Beer Adventures app to make it an interactive experience with prizes up for grabs. Download the app beforehand here: www.beeradventuresapp.com. Tickets are £12 each and include all samples plus expert guidance. We have a pair of tickets to be won. Just send an email headed ‘Beer Adventures competition’ with your name, age and Twitter handle to competitions [at] manchesterwire [dot] co [dot] uk. This competition closes at midnight on Friday 1 December. Winners will be notified via Twitter and email the following day. Tue 5 Dec, Port Street Beer House, 39-41 Port Street, Manchester, M1 2EQ, , 7pm, £12, www.facebook.com

08.12.2017 - 30.12.2017.

Family show: Little Angel Theatre's Red Riding Hood and the Wolf at HOME Manchester.

Little Angel Theatre's new family show at HOME Manchester turns the story of Red Riding Hood on its head by taking the wolf's point of view. But rather than being the fierce and hungry wolf every child knows, the star of the show is actually a rather gentle kind of wolf, with a broken heart. The production company, Little Angel Theatre, will be familiar to those who saw Wow! Said the Owl at HOME last year. Theatre goers can expect more of the same, gentle fun this time around with a show punctuated by the inventive use of props, puppets and flights of fancy. Recommended for ages 6+, Red Riding Hood and the Wolf is around an hour long, with no interval. Star of the show is accomplished physical theatre performer and puppeteer, Charlotte Croft. We’re lucky enough to have a set of family tickets (two adults, two children) to give away to the performance of your choice (depending on what's available as a number of performances have sold out) and extra tickets for other children can be bought at a cost of £6.50 per ticket. To be in with a chance of winning, simply sign up to our mailing list in the top right hand corner of our homepage and send an email to competitions [at] manchesterwire [dot] co [dot] uk, with your name, age and Twitter handle. Competition closes at midnight on Thursday 14 December 2017. We will notify the winners by Twitter and email the following day. For more Christmas show ideas, read our guide to the city's best shows here. Fri 8 Dec - Sat 30 Dec, HOME, 2 Tony Wilson Place, Manchester M15 4FN. Tel: 0161 200 1500, times vary, £8.50 adult, £6.50 child, www.homemcr.org

26.10.2017 - 23.11.2017.

Thursday offer: 50% off burgers at Chorlton's Oddest bar.

Fill your belly for less than a fiver with Oddest’s Thursday burger special. The Chorlton bar is already a destination for those in the burger know - and now you can get 50% their hunky house specials every Thursday. Go old-school with the steak and bacon Odd classic, or get a kick from the jalapeno salsa-loaded crispy buttermilk chicken editon. Veggies have plenty to tuck into including a beetroot and bean extravaganza, and there's a fish fillet burger to get involved with too. Most come in at £4.75 or less on Thursdays; even the super-loaded Brooklyn Burger (pattie, salt beef, Swiss cheese, dill pickle, crispy smoked bacon, Brooklyn beer glaze and all the trimmings) is only a fiver. If that’s not turning your Thursday nights into the new weekend, there’s also an extra-long happy hour from 5pm until 9pm with 2-for-1 cocktails, £3 Amstel pints and £10 bottles of wine. And that's not all. On the first and third Thursdays of the month, Oddest hosts the Big Flam-Bingo Hootenanny, a disco-packed punk bingo night for £1 per play (with a shot of tequila). On the second and fourth Thursdays, tap your toes at the Oddest Open Mic Social. Enjoy the best in live acoustic music, with guest hosts and a free drinks for performers. Your weekend starts here. Every Thu, Oddest Bar, 414-416 Wilbraham Road, Chorlton, Manchester M21 0SD. Tel: 0161 860 7515. www.oddestbar.co.uk

05.10.2017 - 24.11.2017.

Offer: 2-4-1 theatre tickets at Waterside ft. Tayo Aluko & Chopping Chillies.

Enjoy theatre right on Manchester’s doorstop with this special offer for Manchester Wire readers. The Waterside Arts Centre is a buzzing, modern arts hub on the site of the old Sale Civic Theatre. Their programme bursts with comedy, theatre, music and film – and you now have a chance to sample the best of the Waterside with an exclusive Wire deal. Book for any of the shows listed here and use the code MCRWIRE on checkout to get 2-for-1 on tickets. Two (Thu 5 Oct, 7.30pm, £12, www.watersideartscentre.co.uk) sees two actors take on 14 characters as a working class town comes to life in a local boozer. The quick-change script is by renowned Farnworth playwright Jim Cartwright, whose classic play ‘Road’ was adapted for the BBC. Mary Pearson’s one-woman multimedia spectacular FoMO, Mofos (Fri 6 Oct, 7.30pm, £12, www.watersideartscentre.co.uk) takes us into the chaos of a digital world. This solo dance piece takes its cue from the movies Blow-Up and Mullholland Drive, and the songs of Robert Wyatt and John Lennon. The British empire comes under scrutiny in Just An Ordinary Lawyer (Wed 11 Oct, 7.30pm, £12, www.watersideartscentre.co.uk). Actor Tayo Aluko tells – and sings – the compelling tale of how Nigerian cricket fan Tunji Sowande rose through the ranks to become Britain’s first Black judge in 1978. The Value of Nothing (Thu 19 Oct, 7.30pm, £10, www.watersideartscentre.co.uk) is a press conference from hell. Kim Wiltshire’s script sees self-appointed people’s champ Vince Fine lead a government welfare scheme amid the many voices of people on benefits. An electric play brought by Laid Bare. Young people across the UK lent their voices to Zest Theatre and Half Moon’s What Once Was Ours (Mon 6 Nov, 7pm, £9, www.watersideartscentre.co.uk). This is an immersive standing show for young people about Katie and Callum (pictured) living disconnected lives against the background of Brexit. Meet a cobbler and a cook in hit Edinburgh Fringe show Chopping Chillies (Fri 24 Nov, 7.30pm, £12, www.watersideartscentre.co.uk). This poetic tale brings India to the heart of London, and features a post-show talk. It’s directed by Guy Masterson, producer of the Olivier Award winning ‘Morecambe’. Thu 5 Oct – Fri 24 Nov, Waterside Arts Centre, 1 Waterside Plaza, Sale, Greater Manchester M33 7ZF. Tel: 0161 912 5616, www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

28.10.2017.

Win tickets: Daniele Baldelli's Return to Cosmic club night at The Refuge.

The Refuge and Electric Chair are hosting a six-hour cosmic disco marathon with veteran producer Daniele Baldelli at the end of October. For one night only, Baldelli will recreate his legendary nights on the banks of Lake Garda, at which he pioneered the cosmic disco sound in the 1970s. Expect plenty of electronic sounds and surprises from the man who was beatmatching and creating his own edits years ahead of his contemporaries. There's a pre-show warm up in the bar from 3pm with tunes from James Holroyd and Bonar ‘PBR Streetgang’ Bradberry. We have a couple of packages of four tickets to give away to lucky Wire readers. Simply email competitions [at] manchesterwire [dot] co [dot] uk with your name, age and Twitter handle and we'll get back to you. Over 18s only. Sat 28 Oct, The Refuge, The Principal Hotel, Oxford Street, Manchester M60 7HA. Tel: 0161 233 5151, 10pm-4am, £15, www.ticketweb.uk

24.10.2017 - 29.10.2017.

Book family theatre tickets: Slava’s SnowShow at The Lowry.

International clowning sensation Slava will bring a blizzard of family entertainment to The Lowry in October. Slava's SnowShow has scooped awards for the most unique theatrical experience from Time Out, Olivier and Drama Desk. His fun-packed winter wonderland received worldwide acclaim, visiting 80 cities from Moscow to Madrid and Sao Paolo to Shanghai. Russian performance artist Slava Polunin, Artistic Director of the St Petersburg Circus, is the man behind the big red nose: he recently came to the UK to launch his illustrated memoir Alchemy of Snowness. This will be the ninth time this sell-out show has been performed in the UK. Want to treat your family? We have four tickets to give away to one lucky Wire reader. All you need to do is sign up to our mailing list in the top right hand corner of our home page, then send an email headed ‘SnowShow competition’ including your name, age and Twitter handle to competitions [at] manchesterwire [dot] co [dot] uk. This competition closes at midnight on Friday 20 October. Winners will be notified via Twitter and email the following day. This competition is now closed. Tue 24 – Sun 29 Oct, The Lowry, Pier 8, The Quays, Salford M50 3AZ. Tel: 0843 208 6000, 7pm, also Wed, Thu, Sat & Sun at 2pm, £13.50 – £41.50, www.thelowry.com

21.10.2017 - 29.10.2017.

Top 5: October 2017 half term ideas ft. Craft Centre & Ordsall Hall.

So it's half term again - and once again, there's loads to get your teeth into, from hands on workshops at the Craft Centre exploring the secrets of jewellery making, to a giant spiders web at MSI and fun happenings at Waterside Arts Centre. 1. Science and art drop ins at Craft & Design Centre There are free craft/science workshops at Manchester Craft & Design Centre this October half term as part of Manchester Science Festival. Explore chemicals, reactions and elements used by artists in the Science Studio alongside demonstrations and hands-on experiments. Read our preview. Mon 23 - Sat 28 Oct, Manchester Craft and Design Centre, 17 Oak Street, Manchester M4 5JD. Tel: 0161 832 4274, 2-5pm, free, drop in, no booking required, www.craftanddesign.com 2. Family theatre: The Lowry’s Family Arts Festival The Lowry’s annual Family Arts Festival takes in Slava's Snowshow, Michael Morpurgo's Why The Whales Came on the stage, and much more. We have a family ticket for Slava's Snowshow up for grabs - click here to enter. There are also free family events and activities taking place in The Lowry's devoted kids area, The Lookout. Check website for full listings. Sat 21 - Sun 29 Oct. The Lowry, Pier 8, The Quays, Salford M50 3AZ. Tel: 0843 208 6000, times and prices vary, www.familyfestival.org.uk 3. Spook fest: Halloween Grotto at Ordsall Hall Visit Tudor Manor House, Ordsall Hall, and enjoy Halloween activities to get you in the mood for trick or treating. Options include a 'The Magical Door Trail' (Mon 23 – Sun 29 Oct) workshops and drop ins exploring how to make a magic wand (and other things, Mon 23 – Tue 24 Oct). There's even a Halloween Grotto this year, which is home to the Ordsall Hall witch (Wed 25 – Thu 26 Oct). Mon 23 - Thu 26 Oct, 322 Ordsall Lane, Salford M5 3AN. Tel: 0161 872 0251, www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk 4. Kids cabaret: Duckie (Le Gateau Chocolat's Ugly Ducking - pic) at Contact This new piece of children's theatre explores themes of identity and belonging, as well as showcasing plenty of glamour and glitz with cabaret star, Le Gateau Chocolat, at the helm. This is the artist's acclaimed re-working of Hans Christian Anderson’s The Ugly Duckling. Tue 24 & Wed 25 Oct, Contact Theatre, Oxford Road, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6JA. Tel: 0161 274 0600, 2pm/7pm, prices vary (£5 under 10s), www.contactmcr.com 5. Autumn fun at Waterside & our guide to the best kids shows Waterside Arts Centre’s has a host of family friendly theatre shows, live music, workshops and drop ins taking place during half term. Stage shows include Micheal Morpurgo's King Arthur (Sat 21 Oct, 2pm) and What Became of the Red Shoes (Tue 24 Oct, 11.30am & 2.30pm). Read our 'top 4 kids shows' guide or just pop in and see what's going on. Ongoing, Waterside Arts Centre, 1 Waterside, Sale M33 7ZF. Tel: 0161 912 5616, www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

22.10.2017.

Win tickets & £25 voucher for Vintage Home Show at Victoria Baths.

Let your interior designer loose by winning free entry to this year’s Vintage Home Show at Victoria Baths. Read on to find out how to bag tickets to the ever-popular fair packed with retro furniture, lighting, textiles and more. Not only that, we’ll even give you £25 spending money. The Vintage Home Show is all about discovering classic mid-20th century brands such as G-Plan and Ercol, famous for their heritage sofas and sideboards. Expect functional finds like cushions and footstools alongside collectible homewares and inspiring artwork. This all takes place in Manchester's historic Victoria Baths, extending from the balcony right through to the Turkish baths. There’s even a cake shop. We have two early-bird entries worth £10 to give away to one Wire reader, which gets you in half an hour before regular ticket holders. This comes with a £25 voucher to spend at the show, which will be waiting for you when you arrive. All you need to do is sign up to our mailing list in the top right hand corner of our home page, then send an email headed ‘Vintage Home Show competition’ including your name, age and Twitter handle to competitions [at] manchesterwire [dot] co [dot] uk. This competition closes at midnight on Wednesday 18 October. Winners will be notified via Twitter and email the following day. Sun 22 Oct, Victoria Baths, Hathersage Road, Manchester M13 0FE. Tel: 07880 910361, 11am – 4pm (10.30am early-bird), £3-£5, www.vintagehomeshow.co.uk

Win tickets & prosecco: Clod Ensemble's Under Glass at The Lowry.

Performance collective Clod Ensemble are teaming up with Manchester Science Festival to bring a remarkable exhibition of live human specimens to The Lowry. Under Glass is somewhere between a museum exhibit, an installation, a theatre show and a medical lab, where you can walk among people trapped inside glass. Characters include a woman in a jam jar, restless sleepers in a Petri dish, and a shy person caught behind a glass panel. We are giving away a pair of tickets worth £31 - plus a very different kind of glass in the shape of a bottle of Prosecco. To enter, simply sign up to our mailing list in the top right hand corner of our home page, then send an email headed ‘Under Glass competition’ including your name, age and Twitter handle to competitions [at] manchesterwire [dot] co [dot] uk. Competition closes at midnight on Sunday 15 October. Winners will be notified via Twitter and email the following day. Read our preview & watch the trailer here. Wed 18 – Sat 21 Oct, The Lowry, Pier 8, The Quays, Salford M50 3AZ. Tel: 0843 208 6000, 6.30pm & 8pm (& Sat 3pm), £15.50, www.thelowry.com

28.09.2017 - 01.10.2017.

Win burgers, cocktails & more: Almost Famous re-opens in the Northern Quarter.

Manchester's original dirty burger bar, Almost Famous. reopens this Thursday (28 Sep) to amuse and possibly offend once more. Love it or loathe it, you can’t argue with the might of Almost Famous when it comes to burgers and their penchant for over the top deliciousness. As yet, the new look venue and menu is still under wraps but for those keen to be among the first to sample the fiesty patties they're hosting a FREE burger giveaway from noon on Thursday (as well as, allegedly, giving away Black Cards which entitle the holder to free burgers for a year...). The shiny new gaff then opens in the same place from 7pm that night. To be among the first to try the new look Almost Famous NQ, we've got a meal for two (any burger, any fries, any wings + a cocktail each) up for grabs. To be in with a chance of winning, simply sign up to our mailing list in the top right hand corner of our home page, then send an email headed ‘Almost Famous competition’ including your name, age and Twitter handle to competitions [at] manchesterwire [dot] co [dot] uk. Competition closes at midnight on Wednesday 27 September. Winners will be notified via Twitter and email the following day. Almost Famous, 100-102 High Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester M4 1HP. Tel: 0161 244 9422 www.almostfamousburgers.com

12.09.2017.

Win tickets & half price offer: Kieran Hodgson’s Maestro at The Stoller Hall.

A classical show with character brings something different to The Stoller Hall. Kieran Hodgson’s one-man show Maestro takes us from his Yorkshire childhood across the channel as he attempts, fiddle in hand, to pen a four-movement symphony. It’s a comedic story inspired by the grandiose works of Gustav Mahler that highlights the ever-so-human habit of trying things beyond our abilities. This is Hodgson’s second Edinburgh Comedy Award nominated show following Lance, his BBC Radio 4-adapted piece about disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong. The Times called ‘Maestro’ a “funny heartwarming show sends you out humming with happiness” – and it's well within your abilities to win tickets with Manchester Wire. We’re offering a lucky Wire reader the chance to win a pair of tickets for Maestro. To enter, simply sign up to our mailing list in the top right hand corner of our home page, then send an email headed Maestro competition including your full name, age and Twitter handle to competitions [at] manchesterwire [dot] co [dot] uk. Competition closes at midnight on Sunday 10 September - and winners will be notified via Twitter and email the following day. Manchester Wire readers can also get 50% off tickets for this show using the code 'Earworm' at the online check out, or when booking over the phone. Tue 12 Sep, The Stoller Hall, Hunts Bank, Manchester M3 1DA. Tel: 0333 130 0967 (Mon-Fri, 2-4pm), 7.30pm, £15, www.stollerhall.com

26.09.2017.

Win concert tickets: Tasmin Little & Piers Lane at Stoller Hall.

Acclaimed concerto soloist Tasmin Little is coming to Manchester – and you have a chance to win free tickets. Tasmin Little is a leading international violinist who began her career as a Young Musician of the Year string section finalist. She made her first solo appearance with Manchester’s Hallé Orchestra and now has a multi-award winning career spanning international concerto and recital performances, masterclasses, workshops and community outreach work. In her concert at Stoller Hall in September, she explores four Sonatas for violin dating from 1886 to the early part of the 20th century with Australian classical pianist and longstanding collaborator Piers Lane. A lucky Wire reader is in with a chance to win a pair of tickets for this Tasmin Little & Piers Lane concert. To enter, simply sign up to our mailing list in the top right hand corner of our home page, then send an email headed ‘Tasmin Little competition’ including your full name, age and Twitter handle to competitions [at] manchesterwire [dot] co [dot] uk. Competition closes at the end of Thursday 21 September, and the winner will be notified via email. Tue 26 Sep, The Stoller Hall, Hunts Bank, Manchester M3 1DA. Tel: 0333 130 0967 (Mon-Fri, 2-4pm), 7.30pm, £21 / £16, www.stollerhall.com

24.07.2017 - 29.08.2017.

Offer: 50% off at Junkyard Golf for students every Mon & Tue.

The good folk at Junkyard Golf Club are offering a staggering 50% off golfing on Mondays and Tuesdays for students. Have a crack at one of their two 9 hole mini golf courses, either a jaunt around a tropical paradise or a nostalgic trip to a small town night club from the 1990s, each with a cocktail in hand and a salt beef bagel from Eat New York Street Diner. It’s certainly better than forcing yourself to go to the gym. Booking essential. Every Mon and Tue, Junkyard Golf, Piccadilly Place, 6 Piccadilly, Manchester, M1 3BN. Mon-Wed 4pm-midnight, Thu 2pm – midnight, Fri & Sat noon-midnight, Sun noon-10pm, £7 per person, 50% off Mon & Tue with valid student ID, www.junkyardgolfclub.co.uk

23.08.2017.

Flash sale: 20% off Tasmin Little, Battleship Potemkin, Mcr Camerata & more at The Stoller Hall.

Manchester’s newest venue, The Stoller Hall, is running a 1000-minute flash sale from 7am on Wednesday 23 August. With 20% off almost all shows until 11.40pm, and bigger discounts to be announced throughout the day, the details will be announced on Twitter @stollerhall during the day - so give them a follow to make sure you're first in line. This Autumn's varied season includes leading international violinist Tasmin Little (Tue 26 Sep, tickets), pianist Stephen Hough (Wed 13 Dec, tickets), comedian Kieran Hodgson (Tue 12 Sep, tickets) and a screening of cult film classic, Battleship Potemkin with live musical accompaniment (Sun 8 Oct, tickets). Other highlights include performances by regional ensembles including Northern Chamber Orchestra, Manchester Camerata, Salford Choral Society and Chetham’s Symphony Orchestra. Wed 23 Aug, The Stoller Hall, Hunts Bank, Manchester M3 1DA. Tel: 0333 130 0967 (Mon-Fri, 2-4pm), times & prices vary, www.stollerhall.com A Manchester Wire partnership post.

03.08.2017 - 08.08.2017.

Book tickets: One Tribe Festival at Cholmondeley Castle ft. Move D & Juan Atkins.

Like the idea of a world class music festival in the grounds of a real life castle in Cheshire? Look no further than One Tribe, which takes over the Cholmondeley estate for five days in August 2017. The full line up is being announced at the start of March but acts confirmed so far include German DJ du jour Move D, Juan Atkins, Lone, Psychemagik, DJ Bone, Boddika, Slam, Marcus Intalex, DJ Hype, Calibre, Sonic Species, E-Clip and Gaudi. The six stages - including 24-hour venues - take in everything from world tribal to folk, jazz, funk, reggae, drum & bass, house, techno, psychedelic trance and more. This is the festival's second instalment organised by Manchester promoters Audio Farm who've hosted events at Sound Control, Islington Mill and Antwerp Mansion and Festival Number 6. Other attractions include a site-wide nightly live jam (just bring an instrument of your choice to join in) and circus workshops, arts and crafts as well as forest-based yoga, meditation, holistic and alternative therapy workshops and sessions. All profits from the 2000 capacity event will be used to fund The Green Paw Project - a charity that saves the lives of animals in low income countries around the world. To be in with a chance of winning two tickets to One Tribe at Cholmondeley Castle this summer simply sign up to our mailer in the top right hand corner of our homepage and email competitions [at] manchesterwire [dot] co [dot] uk with your name, age, telephone number and Twitter name with 'One Tribe Competition' in the email subject line. Over 18s only please. This competition has now ended. The 3 Aug - Tue 8 Aug, 2017, Cholmondeley Castle, Malpas SY14 8AH, full pass £95, www.onetribefestival.org https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x3pQlZjvWrg

21.07.2017 - 30.07.2017.

Win tickets: Mr Wilson's Second Liners & The Demon Barbers at Refract 17 at Waterside Arts Centre.

Refract:17 is almost upon us – and we have a bunch of tickets to give away. Waterside Arts’ summer celebration of all things unconventional has plenty for visitors of all ages, from improv comedy to flamenco music to storytelling in a giant bird’s nest. Six lucky Wire readers can get in for free to either Mr Wilson's Second Liners or The Demon Barbers XL – you choose! In a genre-defying club night, Mr Wilson's Second Liners (Thu 27 Jul, 8pm, £10) will encourage 24 hour party people to get on down to a mix of New Orleans brass and 1990s club classics. Support comes from theatrical rockers Felix Hagan & The Family, recently seen supporting Frank Turner, and HomoElectric’s award-winning DJ Jamie Bull. Expect the evening to be colourful, anarchic and full of glitter. Meanwhile, The Demon Barbers (Sun 30 Jul, 7.30pm, £17.50) is a must for fans of 21st century folk music. Following sell-out performances of their hip hop-inspired extravaganza ‘The Lock In’, the Barbers bring their XL night to Refract with a new repertoire and extra band members – including clog, sword and break dancers. Best Live Act at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards? This is not one to be missed. To be in with a chance of either two pairs of tickets to Mr Wilson's Second Liners or a pair of tickets to The Demon Barbers, simply email competitions [at] manchesterwire [dot] co [dot] uk with either ‘Mr Wilson Competition’ or ‘Demon Barbers Competition’ in the subject line, along with your name, age, Twitter name and phone number. Competition closes at midnight on Mon 24 July. The winner will be announced the following day. Over 18s only. Go to it! Fri 21 – Sun 30 Jul, Waterside Arts Centre, 1 Waterside Plaza, Sale M33 7ZF. Tel: 0161 912 5616, check website for prices and times, www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

07.07.2017 - 09.07.2017.

Book now: Bluedot Festival at Jodrell Bank ft. Alt-J, Orbital & the Pixies.

See Alt-J, Orbital and the Pixies for free by winning tickets for Bluedot. The three-day festival returns for a second time to the Jodrell Bank observatory, with a excellent music line-up alongside family-friendly science experiments and interactive shows. Other highlights inlcude Soulwax, Ezra Furman and The Boyfriends, and Mancunian synth-pop prodigy Shura. We’re giving away a pair of weekend passes, including camping, to one lucky reader. Remember: you’ll need ID to collect your tickets at the festival. To be in with a chance of winning, sign up to our mailing list in the top right hand corner of our site, then email competitions [at] manchesterwire [dot] co [dot] uk with your name, age, telephone number and Twitter name. Please write ‘Bluedot Competition‘ in the email subject line. Over 18s only. This competition closes at midnight on Monday 15 May 2017. Fri 7 - Sun 9 Jul 2017, Jodrell Bank, Macclesfield SK11 9DL. Tel: 01477 571 766, £59 - £159, www.discoverthebluedot.com

16.06.2017 - 17.06.2017.

2-4-1 tickets & win a pass: Holistic International Festival of Yoga at MediaCityUK.

With Holistic Manchester's International Festival of Yoga almost upon us, Manchester Wire has an enlightening offer. We have two weekend passes up for grabs for the two-day celebration of holistic living at MediaCityUK. The festival features yoga coaching, organic food stalls and live music – the highlight being the east / west fusion of Katie Wise & The Bhakti Explosion. Learn yoga techniques with 800 yogis on MediaCityUK’s waterside piazza, or enjoy chef demonstrations, laughter sessions and gong baths. Running alongside the three main stages – called Reunite, Rejoice and Reflect – are juice bars and vegan food stalls for that extra boost of energy. Wire readers can get 2-4-1 tickets right now using the code YOGIFRIEND via the Ticketline link. To be in with a chance of winning a pair of weekend passes worth £50 each, simply email competitions [at] manchesterwire [dot] co [dot] uk with 'Holistic Competition' in the subject line, alongside your name, age, Twitter name and phone number. Competition closes at midnight on Wednesday 14 June. The winner will be announced the following day. Over 18s only. Fri 16 Jun – Sat 17 Jun, MediaCityUK, The Greenhouse, 101-110 Broadway, Salford M50 2EQ. Tel: 0161 886 5300, Fri from 4pm, Sat from 9am, £10-£50, www.holisticmanchester.com

10.06.2017.

Ballet Cymru offer: 30% off A Midsummer Night's Dream at Waterside Arts Centre.

Love the ballet? Pick up discount tickets to Ballet Cymru's A Midsummer Night's Dream when the tour visits the Waterside Arts Centre in June. William Shakespeare’s comedic tale of lovers trapped in an enchanted forest is brought to life by young dancers from the award-winning Ballet Cymru. A lively score by Felix Mendelssohn, interpreted by artistic director Darius James, accompanies a colourful array of costumes and projections as they spin a tale of mistaken identity, mischief and the magic of a supernatural fairy kingdom. Ballet Cymru previously won a Theatre Critics of Wales medal for best large scale dance production for Romeo & Juliet, so these rising ballet stars come with style. A Midsummer Night's Dream, currently on a national tour, runs for one matinee and one evening performance only at the Waterside, so buy tickets now. Prices are normally £22 (£11 for under-16s) but call the box office on 0161 912 5616 and quote the code MCRMSND to get a special Manchester Wire price of just £17 for adult tickets and only £8 for under-16s. Sat 10 Jun, Waterside Arts Centre, 1 Waterside Plaza, Sale, M33 7ZF. Tel: 0161 912 5616, 2.30pm & 7.30pm, £22 (£11) – or £17 (£8) with our offer, www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

The Beagle Chorlton January food offer 2017

01.01.2017 - 31.01.2017.

January offer: 1/3 off food at The Beagle in Chorlton.

The Beagle's discounted menu - available to members for the whole of January 2017 - is the ideal place to refuel after a tumultuous 2016. Available to everyone who has signed up for a free membership card, the 1/3 off food offer includes the Maple Bacon burger or veggie Nacho Maximo for just £6 each. Quesadillas come in at just £3, as do two tacos including flavours like BBQ jack fruit and pork belly with pineapple. Sign up now via the link below and start 2017 like you mean to go on. Sun 1-Tue 31 Jan, The Beagle, 456-458 Barlow Moor Road, Chorlton, Manchester, M21 0BQ, Tel: 0161 881 8596, food served Tue-Thu: 4pm-10pm; Fri: 2pm-10pm; Sat-Sun: 10am-10pm, FREE membership, www.beaglesabout.com

01.01.2017 - 31.01.2017.

January offer: 1/3 off food at Common this month.

Northern Quarter favourite Common bar is offering a third off all food during January 2017. To enjoy this remarkable offer, simply sign up for a free membership card via the link below, and tuck into their acclaimed house burgers, tacos, burritos and more for less. Big on the brunches, eggs florentine and smashed avocado toast comes in at under a fiver - or go all out with a Stephen Fry Up full English and start the day like a winner. The deal joins Common's other outstanding membership offers of 10% off all beers and BOGOF burgers every Tuesday, so sign up below and tuck in. Sun 1 - Tue 31 Jan 2017, Common, 39-41 Edge Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester, M4 1HW, Tel: 0161 832 9245, food served Tue-Fri: 11am-3pm; Sat-Sun: 10am-3pm, FREE Membership, www.aplacecalledcommon.co.uk

31.12.2016 - 01.01.2017.

Exclusive offer: Room & party this New Year's Eve at The Refuge & Principal Hotel.

The Refuge by Volta is one of the city's success stories of 2016. The elegant restaurant and bar is the baby of DJ/restaurateurs Luke Cowdrey and Justin Crawford (Electric Elephant, Electrik bar, Volta) and it launched to universal acclaim in September. The Refuge's unique offer is small plates such as tender lamb, padron peppers, smoky feta and local beetroot, as well as fine wines and great cocktails in an really impressive Victorian-Gothic space. World-class DJs supply a funky soundtrack from the bar, and it's as much a place to meet for a drink as to celebrate or enjoy a casual meal with friends. The Refuge is celebrating New Year's Eve with a bash called Vogue as You Are, which includes cabaret, contemporary drag from the ChaCha Boudoir crew. The DJ line up takes in Krysko (WHP), DJ Paulette, Neil Diablo, Chris Massey, Dance Lady Dance and more. The party is totally sold out - but all is not lost as Manchester Wire has been offered five rooms for two, each with guaranteed entry to the party for £180 per room on New Year's Eve. The former Palace Hotel was re-branded earlier this year, and is now called the Principal Manchester. Mark Ronson and the Sunday Times Style Magazine hosted the relaunch party - and it was a deserving fan fare. So what better way to experience the new-look hotel and Volta at the Refuge than on the biggest night of the year? To book your room and party tickets simply click on the booking link below and enter the promo code VOGUENYE for a room and party tickets for two people sharing, with a 2pm check out on Sunday 1 January 2017. Sat 31 Dec 2016 - Sun 1 Jan 2017, The Refuge by Volta at The Principal Manchester, Oxford Street, Manchester M60 7HA. Tel: 0161 288 1111, £180 room overnight and party entry to Vogue As You Are for two people, www.phcompany.com

08.12.2016 - 24.12.2016.

Santa Stop Here: the UK's only Santa's Grotto on snow at the Chill Factore.

Nothing says Christmas like a visit to see Father Christmas – and Santa’s Grotto at Chill Factor^eis the only grotto in the UK on real snow. Open daily through December from 10am-7.30pm, slots are still available in the run up to Christmas – and there are various packages to choose from. Every visit includes the chance to explore the snow attractions at the North West’s premier leisure destination - under-4s can enjoy Mini Moose Land and over-4s (including adults) can have fun on The Snow Park. Simply arrive and get kitted out in snow gear (or bring your own) before meeting Santa. As you step in and feel the crunch of real snow, you’ll be greeted by the elves who will lead you to Santa’s home surrounded by festive trees and fairy lights. What lies within is obviously top secret, but the elves have done a great job of making the grotto look awesome. A visit to see Santa wouldn’t be complete without receiving a gift and there’s one available for each person that discovers the magic of Santa’s Grotto and grants their Christmas wishes to the man himself. There’s loads to see and do at Chill Factor^e before and after your visit to Santa too. From bars and ice cream parlours to climbing walls and specialist ski, outdoor and snowboarding shops (including local Manchester brand, Subvert) it's a proper, Alpine playground. The 'ski-slope' shaped landmark is the UK's longest indoor ski slope; so big, in fact, that Santa's elves at the Chill Factor^e have approached Trafford Council to propose installing a 180m x 30m Santa Stop sign on the roof to herald the arrival of Santa each year (see pic). Watch this space for more. Santa's Grotto, until Sat 24 Dec, Chill Factor^e, Trafford Quays Leisure Village, Trafford Way, Stretford, Manchester M41 7JA. Tel: 0161 749 2222 from £17 for one adult and one child, times vary, www.chillfactore.com. A Manchester Wire partnership post.

07.12.2016 - 18.12.2016.

Daily online Christmas deals from tattoo artwork & homeware store Stag & Raven.

In need of Christmas present inspiration? Look no further than tattoo artwork and homeware store, Stag & Raven in Afflecks - a shop which celebrates the art of tattoos, by commissioning original pieces and working with more then 50 acclaimed tattoo artists and creatives from the UK and beyond. Prices start from £10 and under - so we're talking about affordable and unique works of art here - plus this independent boutique is offering different online deals each day in the run up to Christmas. Special web offers include the chance to buy limited edition prints like this bold whale by Cameron Hay at Oldham's Kameeleon Tattoo (pictured), a free tote bag, 25% off A3 prints and free shipping. Click here for the full list and bag yourself a bargain. In the meantime, why not browse the Stag & Raven Instagram to whet your appetite? Daily deals online until Sun 18 Dec, Stag & Raven, Afflecks Palace, Manchester M4 1PW. Tel: 0161 745 9712. open, Mon-Fri 10.30am-6pm, Sat 10am-6pm and Sun 11am-5pm. www.stagandraven.com A Manchester Wire partnership post.

02.12.2016 - 15.12.2016.

Win: A night out at Beat Street w. street food, cocktails, music & more.

Bigger, better a whole lot more more tasty, the Great Northern's Beat Street has the city's finest street food vendors and cocktail experts packed under one roof. Live music, fire pits, blankets and heaters defeat the weather and there are loads of new indoor spaces to enjoy too. Tuck into the best in rum at tropical paradise The Captain's Retreat, or grab one of the finest slices in town from Freddie & Ava's wood-fired pizzas. Burgers come courtesy of Eat New York Street Diner, Big Grille Style (grilled cheese, obvs) is a must-try. In need of dessert? Look no further than the chocolate-bowl toting Black Milk Cereal Bar. There's something special coming up this weekend too, with Lucky Lucky Late Bar's new cocktail menu launch. Open until 2am on Fridays and Saturdays - and midnight on Sunday - the weekend is the perfect opportunity to sample their classics and house blends, with 50% off cocktails all weekend. Fancy trying Beat Street for free? Manchester Wire has teamed up with the organisers to offer one lucky reader a loyalty card packed with 10 servings of free drinks and/or food at any of Beat Street's bars or food stalls. Simply enter your email address into our mailing list on our homepage and then send an email to competitions [at] ManchesterWire dot co dot uk. Please write 'Beat Street Competition' in the subject line and include your name, age (over 18s only), and Twitter name. Competition closes at midnight on Thursday 15 December 2017. Beat Street Mcr, Deansgate Mews, Great Northern Warehouse, 235 Deansgate, Manchester M3 4EN. Tue-Thu & Sun 11am-midnight, Fri & Sat 11am-2am. www.beatstreetmcr.co.uk

18.11.2016 - 30.11.2016.

Win: Unlimited yoga for a month at Manchester's The Life Centre North.

Manchester Wire has teamed up with The Life Centre North to offer readers a month of free unlimited yoga. The Deansgate studios reopened under the auspices of London's acclaimed The Life Centre earlier this year, and there's a new and expanded programme of yoga classes, designed to fit around a busy schedule. There are daily early morning and coffee morning sessions, as well as lunchtime and evening classes - so no matter how packed life feels, there's still time for yoga. Choose from hot or room temperature yoga and sample a whole range of styles. The schedule includes dynamic jivamukti sessions. inward-looking yin yoga classes, hot yoga, candlelit yoga - and much more. To be in with a chance of winning, look out for our competition posts on social media; simply retweet and follow the Life Centre North on Twitter and/like the studio's Facebook page and share with your friends. Competition ends at midnight on Wednesday 30 November. We'll notify the winner via social media on Thursday 1 December. The Life Centre, Office A1, 253 Deansgate Mews, Manchester M3 4EN. Tel: 0161 834 6283, www.thelifecentrenorth.com A Manchester Wire partnership post.

06.10.2016 - 09.10.2016.

Win tickets to the opening night of IndyManBeerCon (IMBC) 2016.

Love beer, food and fun? Enter our competition to win two tickets to the grand opening night of the Independent Manchester Beer Convention 2016 (IMBC). This is your chance to drink the world's best beer in the aquatic/historic surrounds of Victoria Baths. The inimitable festival has made its name by serving up the very best craft and new wave beers from around the world. This year's event is bigger and better too, with rooms curated by names like Cloudwater and Wild Beer Co. Expect festival specials and one-off brews galore. IMBC is famous for serving the finest street food in the land - confirmed names include Bundobust's Indian delights and vegan creations from Mother May I - basically, it's a Manchester must-do. Our IMBC competition winner will secure two tickets to the opening night session (Thu 6 Oct, 5.30-11.30pm), with a selection of beer tokens thrown in for good measure. Beer fans will be thrilled to note that the Thursday/Friday brewery line up at IMBC is different to the Saturday/Sunday line-up, so if you've already got a ticket for later in the weekend, there's no reason not to pay the highlight of the drinking year a visit twice. To be in with a chance of winning this excellent prize, simply send an email to competitions [at] ManchesterWire [dot] co [dot] uk, with your name, aged, Twitter handle and phone number with 'IMBC competition' in the subject line. Entries must be received by midnight on Monday 12 September and winners will be announced on Tuesday 13 September. Thu 6-Sun 9 Oct, Victoria Baths, Hathersage Road, Manchester, M13 0FE, available sessions Thu 5.30-11.30pm & Sun: 1-7pm, £8.50, www.indymanbeercon.co.uk

02.08.2016 - 31.08.2016.

Half price drinks: Tampopo celebrate summer with 50% off.

As drinks deals go, you won't find a more refreshing offer than Tampopo's summer thirst quencher. Choose from three Manchester outlets where you'll find all drinks half price. That means beer below £2 (Tiger and Beer Lao for £1.98) and cocktails such as the Singapore Sling for as little as £3.48. Mocktails start at £1.50 - try the eye-opening tastebud tickler Ginger Mule for just £1.47 - and wine starts at £2.12 a glass, with soft drinks under £1. The pan-Asian restaurant chain started in Manchester before becoming a national phenomenon. Mancunians can choose from outlets in Albert Square, the Corn Exchange and Trafford Centre. Food on offer includes authentic dishes from Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, Singapore and more. All you need to do to get this deal is like or follow Tampopo on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter, and enjoy half-price drinks. Until Wed 31 Aug, Tampopo, Corn Exchange, Manchester, M4 3TR // 16 Albert Square, Manchester, M2 5PF // Trafford Centre, Manchester, M17 8EH, times vary, www.tampopo.co.uk

14.07.2016.

Win tickets: Paradise Lost (lies unopened beside me) at the Lowry.

Acclaimed dance-theatre show Paradise Lost (lies unopened beside me) is coming to the Lowry this week - and we've got two tickets to give away (including a pre- or post-show drink). The performance is based on John Milton's epic poem, Paradise Lost, which dates back to the 17th century. However this performance sees Ben Duke, artistic director of the Lost Dog theatre and dance company, transforming the famous text into a one-man show with a difference. Award-winning Duke plays all the characters in the performance himself, and the show has been nominated for a South Bank Sky Arts Award for Dance. Read our full preview here. To be in with a chance of winning two tickets to see Ben Duke in Paradise Lost (lies unopened beside me) at the Lowry - plus a pre- or post-show drink - simply send an email to competitions [at] ManchesterWire [dot] co [dot] uk with your name, age, phone number and the answer to the following question. Please write 'Paradise Lost competition' in the subject line. Competition closes at midnight on Tuesday 12 July, and winners will be contact on Wednesday 13 July. Paradise Lost (lies unopened beside me) is based on an epic 17th poem by:- a. John Milton b. Martina Cole c. Karl Marx Thu 14 Jul, The Lowry, Pier 8, The Quays, Salford, M50 3AZ. Tel: 0843 208 6000, 8pm, £14, www.thelowry.com

02.06.2016 - 05.06.2016.

This weekend: Ideal Home Show 2016 at EventCity Manchester.

Bursting with inspiration, awesome gadgets, TV personalities, room sets and fine food, the Ideal Home Show 2016 returns to EventCity Manchester this weekend. Over four days filled with top brands, industry experts and hundreds of products, there's something to brighten up every corner of the home. More than 300 exhibitors are located across seven show areas which take in themes like interiors, gardens and fashion with special offers and show exclusives part of the draw. Browse the Show Home, explore inspirational room sets and enjoy glass of bubbly in the restaurant and Champagne bar. The Ideal Super Theatre has a programme of talks and demonstrations from the likes of Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, Diarmuid Gavin, Gregg Wallace, Katie Piper, Suzi Perry and Martin Lewis. Thu 2 - Sun 5 Jun, EventCity, Phoenix Way, Manchester M41 7TB, Tel: 0844 209 7366, £12/£11, www.idealhomeshowmanchester.com A Manchester Wire partnership post

02.06.2016 - 05.06.2016.

Limited FREE ticket giveaway: Ideal Home Show 2016 at EventCity Manchester.

We’re giving away 500 free tickets to the Ideal Home Show 2016 at EventCity Manchester. Running from Thursday 2 to Sunday 5 June, the Ideal Home Show 2016 is full of inspiring ideas for the whole home, from kitchens and bathrooms to bedrooms, basements, fixtures and fittings and gardens. The four day spectacular includes leading brands, talks by industry experts and products to transform your home - not forgetting all the latest gadgets. This year's event is sponsored by Express Bi-folding Doors and offers both a proper day out and a unique shopping experience, with something for the whole family to enjoy. Look out for over 300 exhibitors across seven areas. Alongside show offers and exclusives, highlights include fully furnished room sets and show homes to explore, the Gregg Wallace restaurant, Champagne bar and a comprehensive programme of talks in the Ideal Super Theatre. Guests include George Clarke, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, Diarmuid Gavin, Gregg Wallace, Katie Piper, Suzi Perry and Martin Lewis - to name but a few. Free tickets to the Ideal Home Show 2016 are available on a first come first served basis. To book yours, visit www.idealhomeshowmanchester.com and quote MCRWIRE* *Offer closes at 23:59 on Thursday 26 May 2016. A maximum of 2 free adult tickets (weekdays and limited weekend) per household. Children 15 and under go FREE (maximum 1 child per adult ticket) please request these at the Box Office. Entry valid for the day requested between 2-5 June 2016. Tickets will be on a first-come first-serve basis and will be print at home tickets only. Tickets will be sent via email between 1-5 days after application. Tickets are non-transferable, non-assignable and there are no cash alternatives. All tickets will be scanned upon entry. Multiple applications will be refused entry onsite. Open to UK residents only. A Manchester Wire partnership post.

23.02.2016 - 29.02.2016.

Top 3: Manchester Food & Drink offers inc. Busaba Eathai, Sakana + Pho.

50% off fine dining at Sakana Manchester's central, pan-Asian restaurant is offering 50% off its Spring a la carte menu. To book, call and quote 'SPRING16'. As well as that, the restaurant is offering 50% off between 22 and 25 Feb for the first 100 people who call and book a table, quoting 'New Menu 16' offer. With all that organisation out of the way, you are free to enjoy their mainstream Japanese, Thai and Korean cooking. Offer 1 - Fri 26 and Sun 28 Feb, Offer 2 - Mon 22 to Thurs 25 Feb. Sakuna, 23 Peter Street Manchester, M2 5QR. Tel: 0161 884 1292, www.sakanapan-asian.co.uk Try Thai at Busaba for £12.95 Manchester Thai newcomer Busaba is offering a two-course 'taste of Thailand' meal, everyday after 4pm. A new London export (it was set up by one of the Wagamama original team), the deal includes a small dish such as Por-pia jay spring rolls, followed by a main, such as a laksa curry. Busaba, Unit 1 Printworks, Manchester M4 2BS. Tel: 0161 672 4640, www.busaba.com Two course lunch at Pho for £9.95 (pictured) Throughout February, Pho are offering a lunch special Monday to Friday, midday – 5pm. Tuck into two courses from the menu below for £9.95. With options that include summer rolls, sriacha chicken wings, and Vietnamese soup noodles, we'll be taking them up on the offer before the 29th. Pho, Unit 15, The Corn Exchange, 37 Hanging Ditch, Manchester, M4 3TR. Tel: 0161 464 9779, www.phocafe.co.uk

12.01.2016 - 31.01.2016.

Opening offers at Manchester's King Street Townhouse hotel inc. half-price food + discounted rooms.

A new hotel from Manchester's Eclectic Hotel group called King Street Townhouse has opened in the city centre. Other hotels in the group include Great John Street Hotel, Didsbury House Hotel and Eleven Didsbury Park. Features of note in the new hotel, which is described by the management as 'a baby grand hotel', include a soon-to-open infinity pool on the roof, luxurious bedrooms and the King Street Tavern serving British classics and drinks from noon until late. The Tavern includes a brasserie, bar and afternoon tea lounge. The hotel is offering 50% off food up to and including Thursday (14 Jan). For those who'd like to try the full experience, cut-price stays are available until 31 January 2016, with 25% off room prices. Now open: King Street Townhouse, 10 Booth Street, Manchester M2 4AW. Tel: 0161 667 0707, www.eclectichotels.co.uk

12.01.2016 - 30.01.2016.

Manchester food & drink news ft. AA Rosettes, Michael O'Hare, Ella Woodward + more.

This week's food update for Manchester includes a bottomless brunch at Mad Men themed bar The Pen and Pencil and the news that chef-patron of Leeds' Michelin-starred Man Behind the Curtain, Michael O'Hare is taking on a key food role at GG Hospitality, which includes Hotel Football. Meanwhile, Manchester House has been awarded four AA Rosettes and healthy eating guru, Ella Woodward, is coming to the Lowry. Pen and Pencil launches bottomless brunch Never quite satisfied by brunch? Not any more as The Pen and Pencil bring you there incredible bottomless brunch. Held between on the last Saturday of every month these are a real opportunity to gorge yourself for just £30. Eggs Florentine, Benedict, grilled cheese sandwiches, pancake stacks, corned beef hash, steak and eggs are all on offer and the best bit is you don’t even have to choose. The drinks are just as free-flowing and include classic cocktails like Bloody Marys and Mimosas, beer or even Prosecco. But beware, it’s first come, first served unless you book in advance. With this trend already a hit down in London, other places in Manchester will no doubt be hot on their heels. Sat 30 Jan, The Pen and Pencil, Fourways House, 57 Hilton Street, Manchester, M1 2EJ. Tel: 0161 660 3303, 10am-2pm, £30, to book email info@thepenandpencilnq.co.uk Michael O'Hare takes on creative director role at Hotel Football and GG Hospitality Manchester is in for a treat after Michelin-starred maverick Michael O’Hare was appointed Creative Director of GG Hospitality, taking over the reins of the catering side of Gary Neville and Ryan Giggs owned Hotel Football. The charismatic chef will maintain control of his restaurant, The Man Behind The Curtain in Leeds but will also take charge at Cafe Football, the upcoming Stock hotel on Norfolk Street and another potential venue within the £200m St Michael's redevelopment of Bootle Street Police Station. O’Hare's cooking is nothing but bold: expect a shake up at Football towers as former creative director, Michael Wignall, moves on to Gidleigh Park. Hotel Football, 99 Sir Matt Busby Way, Stretford, Manchester, M16 0SZ. Tel: 0161 751 0430, hotelfootball.com Ella Woodward comes to the Lowry Health food blogger Ella Woodward will be hitting Salford to discuss and sign copies of her second book, Deliciously Ella Every Day. The new book promotes the vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free diet she believes helped her recover from postural tachycardia syndrome and is the follow-up to Deliciously Ella, which became the fastest-selling debut cookbook of all time last year. The new book focuses on using natural ingredients, rather than deprivation, to nurture your body and embrace a positive, healthy way of life. Tue 26 Jan, Pier 8 Restaurant, The Lowry, Pier 8, The Quays, Salford M50 3AZ. Tel: 0161 876 2121, 7pm, £20 (includes a copy of the book), to book email piereight@thelowry.com Manchester House (pictured) wins 4 AA Rosettes, joining the French's rating Living Venture's contemporary British restaurant, Manchester House under the guidance of head chef Aiden Byrne has won another AA Rosette at an award ceremony on Monday 11 January 2016, bringing the total awarded to Manchester House by the AA Restaurant Guide up to four. The French at the Midland already holds this award, while other new winners in the four rosette category include The Black Swan at Oldstead in Yorkshire and the Five Fields in London. Another restaurant that we particularly rate, the fearless Northern European bistro, Lake Road Kitchen in Ambleside, with chef-patron James Cross at the helm has been awarded 3 AA Rosettes. Manchester House, Tower 12, 18-22 Bridge Street, Manchester M3 3BZ. Tel:0161 835 2557, www.manchesterhouse.uk.com

19.01.2016 - 31.01.2016.

Top 3: Manchester food offers ft TNQ, Splendid & Abel Heywood.

We’re over halfway through a cold and rainy Manchester January now, so just in case it’s starting to get you down, these great bargain offers could be just what the doctor ordered to banish those blues. Read our other January discount round ups, including 50% off food at Mr Thomas's Chophouse, Podium, Cane and Grain, the Dockyard for £5 pies and half price pizza at PLY - click here and here for details. Half-price food at TNQ Restaurant And Bar (pictured) 50% off food at TNQ Restaurant And Bar in January. To enjoy this fantastic offer all you need to do is book a table (excludes Sat / Sun & Burns Night) and complete a voucher, easy!. TNQ Restaurant And Bar, 108 High Street, Manchester, M4 1HQ. Tel: 0161 832, tnq.co.uk 50% off food at Splendid Kitchen Splendid Kitchen are offering 50% off food for online bookings throughout January. With some of the best burgers in town it seems silly not to take them up on the offer… Splendid Kitchen, Unit C, St James Square, John Dalton Street, Manchester, M2 6WH. Tel: 0161 833 1016, splendidkitchen.co.uk Abel Heywood's 50% off food offer Recently refurbished Northern Quarter hangout Abel Heywood are also getting in on the old 50% off in January act. So if it’s wholesome, hearty fare and a good pint you’re after on these dark days this relaxed boutique hotel/pub is the one for you. Abel Heywood, 38 Turner Street, Manchester, M4 1DZ. Tel: 0161 819 1441, abelheywood.co.uk

25.11.2015 - 04.12.2015.

Win: A day pass to the new look Virgin Active Salford Quays health club & spa.

Feeling great now looks even better with the newly renovated Virgin Active Salford Quays health club and spa, overlooking the historic waterfront. Thanks to a huge £4.5m club investment, the gym floor, fitness studios and pool have all been transformed. Now, as well as the state of the art swimming complex including steam room and sauna alongside studios and fitness equipment, there's a new fitness zone called the GRID. This high-intensity training room is where Virgin Active run classes such as GRID Strong, and GRID Active, with a focus on getting visible, long-term results, fast. Other classes include dynamic ashtanga yoga, a new and distinctly uplifting class called Pulse powered by Clubbercise (a cross between a night out and a fitnesss class - could you ask for more?) and many others. The fitness studios are huge, light-filled spaces that have recently featured on Strictly Come Dancing. The result is a more healthy, active you. Fancy trying it out for size? We've got two day passes to Virgin Active Salford Quays up for grabs. To be in with a chance of winning, simply email competitions [at] ManchesterWire [dot] co [dot] uk, with the answer to the following question. Please include your name, age, phone number and Twitter handle. The competition closes on Friday 4 December at midnight. Virgin Active Salford Quays new, high intensity fitness space is called:- a. The Grid b. Ben Nevis c. The Force Virgin Active Health Club and Spa, Unit F31, Lowry Outlet Mall, Lowry Outlet, Salford Quays M50 3AH. Tel: 0161 876 6111, www.virginactive.co.uk A Manchester Wire partnership post.

02.10.2015 - 11.10.2015.

Win a meal for 4 at Pho restaurant in Manchester Corn Exchange.

Manchester's got a spicy new arrival, in the shape of Vietnamese street food experts, Pho. Not to be confused with other Mcr restaurants with similar names, this outfit started life in the big smoke, before opening in the new Corn Exchange food hall. House special is a (very) slow-cooked beef broth, packed with beef brisket and egg yolk and mushrooms, while other thrills include Bò lá lốt (beef wrapped in betal leaves, served with rice vermicelli sheets & nuoc cham) and Gỏi xoài Spicy (green mango salad topped with pork, dried shrimp and peanuts). Summer rolls, a kind of Vietnamese wrap, are another must as is the house mojito made with rice wine, and Asian lager beers that put everyone in a holiday frame of mind. Jude Law and Anne Hathaway are fans, and we're lucky enough to have a meal for four up for grabs. To be in with a chance of winning this spicy feast for you and all your friends at Pho, simply email competitions at ManchesterWire dot co dot uk with the answer to the following question. Please include 'Pho competition' in the subject line, and include your name, age, Twitter handle and phone number. Competition ends at midnight on Sunday 11 October 2015. How is 'Pho' is pronounced in Vietnam? a. Yo b. Fuh c. Fun Pho, Unit 15, The Corn Exchange, 37 Hanging Ditch, Manchester, M4 3TR. Tel: 0161 464 9779, www.phocafe.co.uk

22.09.2015.

Win a hot yoga pass to Manchester Yoga Lounge in the Great Northern.

Have you tried hot yoga yet? Here at Manchester Wire we enjoy nothing more than pulling poses in 38 degree heat - so we've teamed up with Manchester's Yoga Lounge to offer a 10 day introductory free pass. The winner receives unlimited access to the Yoga Lounge's programme of hot yoga classes over 10 consecutive days. The classes include 60 minute sessions, candlelit yoga, and classes with music taught by the studio's resident teachers. The Yoga Lounge is located above Evuna restaurant in the Great Northern Warehouse and includes personal training studios, showers and getting ready areas, and a friendly and relaxed clientele. Fitness fans might be interested to know that Yoga Lounge is also hosting an open day on Saturday (19 Sep) from 12.30-3.30pm. Free sessions on offer include hot yoga, 15 minute sports massage and posture assessment, juice tasters and health food advice from Hale's Succo. Sessions should be booked in advance (see info below). To be in with a chance of winning a 10 day introductory pass to Yoga Lounge's hot yoga programme, simply email competitions [at] manchesterwire [dot] co [dot] uk with 'Yoga Competition' in the subject bar and include the answer to the following question. Entries must be received by Tuesday 22 September at midnight. Entrants must not have taken up the Yoga Lounge's 10 days introductory offer before and should be over 18. Please include your name, age, phone number and Twitter handle. Which of the following is a real yoga pose? A. Angry Squirrel B. Downward Dog C. Knitted Giraffe Yoga Lounge, Office A1, The Great Northern Development, 253 Deansgate, Manchester M3 4EN. Tel: 0161 834 6283, www.theyogalounge.co.uk. To book taster sessions at the open day email info@yogalounge.co.uk.

02.09.2015 - 23.09.2015.

Eating out offer: 50% off food at Oddest on Wednesdays.

Chorlton's Oddest bar are serving up a great deal this autumn, whereby hungry diners can get 50% off their food all day every Wednesday. Don't let September get you down, and treat yourself to a pocket-friendly meal. Choose from breakfasts, mains, sides and sharing boards. Locally sourced and sustainable ingredients, including meat from Chorlton's own Frost butchers, sustainable fish and free range eggs are used, meaning that you get top quality, ethical grub that doesn't break the bank. Mains include Boston Fish & Chips (£4.25 - all prices listed with discount included) and Hallou-mi Hallou-you halloumi and veggie kebabs (£4.25), or go for broke with one of their house burgers (all £4.25). Options include cheese burger, Cajun grilled beef burger with blue stilton and a Cheshire pork and chorizo burger. Veggie don't miss out thanks to options such as spicy Moroccan or goats cheese and field mushroom burgers (both £3.75). Musical accompaniment comes courtesy of Subterranean Sound System DJs who bring the noise until 23 Sep, when Oddest welcomes back the Quizimodo quiz team. 50% off food on Wed 2, 9, 16 & 23 Sep, Oddest, 414-416 Wilbraham Road, Manchester, M21 0SD. www.oddestbar.co.uk

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Good stuff: Matchday Experiences at Hotel Football.

The biggest news of the summer Premier League transfer window is the 2015-16 Matchday Experience Packages at Hotel Football. This new arrival on Manchester's hotel and dining scene is the brainchild of former players, including Paul Scholes, Gary Neville and Ryan Giggs. But its not just on the football pitch that the team behind the AA 4-star hotel excel, with the hotel securing acclaim across the board. One of the hotel's strengths is the restaurant and bar where visitors can tuck into informal and relaxed dishes alongside craft beers, and fine wines in a fun and friendly setting. The Hotel overlooks Old Trafford football stadium - basically, it would be difficult to be closer to the action. Catering is overseen by two Michelin star chef, Michael Wignall and Brendan Fyldes. Building on the foundations of great food and hospitality, the hotel is now serving Match Day packages that will appeal to everyone - even those who live around the corner! Packages can be tailored to guests’ needs, but the main three options are as follows. 1. Heaven is a roof-top BBQ. The most family-focused Match Day package is called Heaven and allows access to the hotel's football-pitch style roof, complete with retractable roof, for three hours before the game. The price includes a BBQ meal with sides and the chance to take a selfie or two with former players. Ideal for those with children, there's a kids activity zone up here too, as well as unrivalled views of the stadium to get everyone in the mood. (£40 adult, £20 child). 2. Lounge-style fun with friends The Players Lounge package includes a gourmet buffet meal and a player appearance as well as complimentary pre-match drinks, quizzes and prizes. There are great views of the stadium from this indoor lounge which is ideal for birthday parties (of all ages) and team outings. (£40 adult, £20 child) 3. Four-course gourmet experience in the Stadium Suite Simply the best, this package includes pre and post-match dining, free drinks and the chance to meet one of the hotel's celebrity owners. There's a four course menu, inspired by two Michelin star chef Michael Wignall and Group Executive Head Chef Brendan Fyldes and loads more. An unforgettable day out for your clients, family or partner. (£145 adult, £75 child). Whether you'd like to treat your staff, arrange a trip with your colleagues, invite your Sunday league team out for a social or bring the family, with Hotel Football's Match Day experiences it looks like the ideal way to add a bit of extra magic to your day, before kick off and after the final whistle. Hotel Football, 99 Sir Matt Busby Way, Manchester, M16 0SZ. Tel: 0161 751 0430, matchday package prices start at £40 per adult and £20 per child, www.hotelfootball.com NB: Player and celebrity appearances subject to availability.

Sunshine in a glass: Odd's all-new summer cocktail menu.

Odd's recently launched new cocktail menu serves up a taste of summer - no matter what the weather. All the old favourites are still on the list including Perfect Passion, Spiced Pear and Long Beach Iced Tea. But there are a wealth of new ones to try too. Those who love their gin will love Tarragin, a light and elegant summer drink including fresh kiwi, tarragon and lime. Pinky Promise is another summer saviour including mescal, martini, pineapple, agave and lime, while Chuck Berry will transport you straight to steamy Kentucky, with bourbon, orange liqueur, assorted berries and a kick of mint. Rum lovers will enjoy Wray of the Dead (pictured, including Wray & Nephew and Havana rums) Happy hour cocktails (selected drinks only) cost £5 and £6 and are available on Thursdays (7-11pm) and Fridays (5-9pm). Check out the new cocktail menu in full. From Mon 25 May, Odd bar, 30-32 Thomas Street, Manchester M4 1ER. Tel: 0161 833 0070, Happy Hours Thu 7-11pm, Fri 5-9pm, FREE entry, www.oddbar.co.uk A Manchester Wire x Odd partnership post.

22.05.2015 - 25.05.2015.

Chorlton Arts Festival Weekender ft Young Knives & The Travelling Band.

Chorlton Arts Festival (Thu 14 - Mon 25 May) returns with more than 100 events in tow - and we've got a pair of tickets to its centre-piece, the music-focused Chorlton Weekender (Fri 22- Mon 25 May) up for grabs. The three headline acts of the Weekender are O'Hooley and Tidow, The Travelling Band and Young Knives (pictured). Your Weekender wristband gets you into all three shows. Tickets are required for the main live events, but there are a number of freebies that you can get involved with if that rocks your boat. A couple of our favourites are Remix: Manchester Reworked (Fri 22 May, St Werburgh's Church, 7.30pm, free) which sees works by composers John Casken and Peter Maxwell-Davies performed alongside new commissions inspired by their works. There's also a showcase by the acclaimed Ordsall Acapella Singers (Sun 24 May, St Ninian's Church, 7pm, free). To be in with a chance of winning two tickets to the Chorlton Arts Festival Chorlton Weekender simply email competitions at ManchesterWire dot co dot uk with your name, age, Twitter handle, phone number. Please write 'Chorlton Weekender Competition' in the subject line. Competition closes at midnight on Wednesday (13 May). This competition is now closed. Chorlton Arts Festival Weekender, Fri 22 - Mon 25 May, various venues, times and prices, www.chorltonartsfestival.com

11.05.2015 - 15.05.2015.

Celebrate new menu with 50% off steak at The Blue Pig.

Manchester's favourite Northern Quarter bistro, The Blue Pig, has launched a brand new menu this week. To celebrate they are running special offer whereby everyone claim 50% off steaks from Monday (11 May) until NEXT Friday (15 May). Steaks include hanger steak, sirloin on the bone, T-bone, flat rump and wild boar. Sides include skin-on fries, flat field mushroom, grilled tomato, pickled, ale-battered onion rings and smoked garlic butter or peppercorn sauce. Many of the Blue Pig's burgers are still available such as New York Deli Burger plus new additions like the Dirty Pig (pork burger, smoked bacon, fried egg and roast tomato chutney). There's lashings of choice for veggies too including a decadent take on the classic 'tricolour' salad with deep fried buffalo mozzarella, chilli slow-roasted tomatoes, avocado and lime pesto. Other mains include the Pig Dog, fish and chips and fried buttermilk chicken. A new addition to the sharing board menu is called 'Happy As A Pig In...' and comes with crispy fried pork balls, ginger and chilli crackling, pork dripping bread, black pudding scotch egg and bacon jam. Sweet treats include Choffles (where waffles meet churros) and there are lashings of craft beers, fine wines, cocktails and more to enjoy. The new menu is sourced from suppliers like WH Frost butchers in Chorlton, fish is sustainable, vegetables are seasonal - plus portions are famously generous. The 50% off offer, however, is all about steak. The Blue Pig, 69 High Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester M4 1FS. Tel: 0161 832 0630 www.thebluepigmcr.co.uk Follow the Blue Pig on Twitter here: @thebluepigmcr A Manchester Wire x Blue Pig partnership post.

27.04.2015 - 05.05.2015.

Win a free three-hour house clean with Hassle.com.

Cleaning your house too much hassle? Take the pain out of keeping things spick and span with cleaning experts, Hassle.com. The company started in London and has just expanded its network of vetted, mobile house cleaners to Manchester. All you have to do is visit their website and see if your postcode is within the range of the Hassle.com service. You then pay online - and a clean house is yours for the loving with a week. For those nervous about dipping their toe into the cleaning market, fear not. The company have completed over 15,000 hours of cleaning as well as creating hundreds of jobs in under a year. To date, they've got around 7000 subscribers in Manchester. Like the sound of giving it a go? Why not enter our competition to win a three-hour one-off house clean. To be in with a chance of winning, simple email competitions at manchesterwire dot co dot uk (in the usual format). Please write 'Hassle.com cleaning competition' in the subject line and include your name, age, Twitter handle and answer to the following question by midnight on Tuesday 5 May 2015. The best answer will win a free three-hour house clean. Alternatively, book now at hassle.com Q: How would you spend your free three hours in Manchester? A few points to note: - The winner must be within an area that is serviceable by Hassle.com in the UK - The winner must be over 18 - The prize is non-transferrable and no cash alternative will be given - The clean will be a 3-hour one-off clean - The prize must be redeemed by 31 August 2015 A Manchester Wire x Hassle.com partnership post.

05.05.2015.

Win live jazz tickets: The Rebirth + DJ Andrea Trout at Band on the Wall.

Band on the Wall continue their strong habit of selecting some of the finest touring live bands across jazz, funk and soul by welcoming The Rebirth for a show on Tuesday 5 May. The Los Angeles septet released their single, ‘This is Coming To?’, ahead of a quasi-concept album aiming to piece together the very human sensation of wishing to return to viewing the world through childlike eyes. Brought into fruition with some help from the Indiegogo crowd funding platform, Being Thru the Eyes of a Child is a collection of songs smoothly blending funky guitar strokes with the beguiling vocals of Baskerville Jones. Their grooves have gyrated hips globally at festivals from Big Chill to South Africa’s Cape Town Jazz Festival, so don’t resists the temptation to boogie. Deep house, disco, funk and soul specialist DJ Andrea Trout will be on the ones and twos. We have a pair of tickets for Tuesday (5 May) up for grabs. To be in with a chance of winning, simply email competitions at ManchesterWire dot co dot uk, with your name, age, Twitter handle, and the answer to the following question. The deadline for entry is Monday 4 May 2015, at midnight. At which South African city’s jazz festival have The Rebirth performed? 1. Cape Town Jazz Festival 2. Durban Disco 3. The Bloemfontein Boogie Tue 5 May, Band on the Wall, 25 Swan Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester M4 5JZ. Tel: 0161 834 1786, 7.30pm, £15, www.bandonthewall.org

01.05.2015.

Win two tickets to dubstep legends Sherwood & Pinch at Band on the Wall.

With a three-day weekend up ahead, Band on the Wall has prepared a stellar headlining show for kaleidoscopic dub duo Sherwood & Pinch. Their debut LP as a collaborating pair, Late Night Endless, released in February, offers a taste of the bewitching beats and smoky bassline throbs you can expect to hear shimmering through the legendary music venue’s main room. The two-year long project has melded the musical powers of two seasoned veterans of the dub genre. Adrian Sherwood found his feet producing tunes for the On-U Sound collective in the 1980s soon becoming prolific and rubbing shoulders with everyone from The Clash to PiL, while remixing a range of recordings by everyone from Air to Nine Inch Nails. Combining with Tectonic label founder Pinch has heralded mind expanding results, splicing elements of drum and bass as well as trip hop and dubstep. And with vocals sampled by the likes of Daddy Freddy, Congo Natty, Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, Prince Far I and Andy Fairley, Sherwood & Pinch’s floor-filling limb looseners have a substantial supporting cast. We have a pair of tickets for Friday (1 May) up for grabs. To be in with a chance of winning, simply email competitions at ManchesterWire dot co dot uk, with your name, age, Twitter handle, and the answer to the following question. The deadline for entry is Friday 1 May at 10am. The winner will be announced at lunchtime. What is the name of Sherwood & Pinch’s 2015 debut LP? 1. Late Night Endless 2. Early Morning Forever 3. Mid Afternoon Often Fri 1 May, Band on the Wall, 25 Swan Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester M4 5JZ. Tel: 0161 834 1786, 9pm, £10. www.bandonthewall.org

01.05.2015 - 04.05.2015.

Oddest bar's Chorlton Bank Holiday round up w So Flute's Danuka.

Chorlton's Oddest bar has it going on this May Bank Holiday weekend. There is so much stuff happening that we've had to issue a day by day break down, just to give you a chance to digest what's coming your way. On Friday (1 May), there's 50% off food when you order an alcoholic drink or a bottle of Fentimans all day, plus 50% off the new cocktail menu between 5 and 7pm. From 9pm till 1.30am, So Flute's Danuka gets behind the decks. See our full preview here. But in short, if you like the world-wide eclecticism of Gilles Peterson, you'll love this (9pm-1.30am). There's more dancing to be had on Saturday (2 May) with the funk-powered legend, Jimmy Nolan, playing his resident DJ set (9pm- 1.30am, free entry & late bar), while Sunday (3 May) keeps the vibe popping off. Stu from hiphop collective Taste The Diff'rence will make your Bank Holiday head spin with his exceptional selections. Expect the best hiphop across the board with one of Manchester's top DJs (9pm-1.30am, free). For those in recovery or who simply have been saving themselves for the big day of rest, Monday (4 May) has the perfect cure in the shape of a Vinyl Appreciation All-Dayer (3pm-9pm, free) where you get to be the DJ - with a bit of guidance from the residents. Fri 1 - Mon 4 May, Oddest Bar, 414-416 Wilbraham Road, Chorlton, Manchester, M21 0SD. Tel: 0161 860 7515, times and prices vary, www.oddestbar.co.uk