May Day Makers Markets at People’s History Museum

If you’re looking for a Bank Holiday activity, you’re in luck – People’s History Museum is hosting its first ever May Day Makers Markets! Bring your friends and family to shop handmade goods, find unique gifts and take part in creative workshops.

The May Day Makers Markets are the perfect celebration of the occasion, with colourful springtime wares as well as a show of support for craft workers in the region. The event is taking place in the beautiful Edwardian Grade II listed Engine Hall, as well as in the museum’s public spaces, showcasing the best of maker talent in the North West. 

Jewellery fans will want to stop by the stall of The Magpie’s Daughter for vintage styles, including a series inspired by the PHM collection. Palm + Luna’s intricately beaded pieces in vivid colours are joyful and made with love, exactly how jewellery should be.

No makers market would be complete without ceramics: look out for raku-fired pieces from Nwrclayations, and the more contemporary textures of Blahadava Ceramics. 

In textile corner, we have mini banners with fun messages from Sophie Pattinson, perfectly placed amongst the museum’s incredible banner collection. Gingham Flamingo offers one-of-a-kind fabrics with bold patterns, while Tender Hook Studios keeps the art of handweaving very much alive by creating purses, small bags and cute woven collars. You can take it all home in a backpack from DeFelice & Co, Manchester-based bag makers whose ethos is all about quality, durability, timeless design and locally sourced materials.

Once you’re done shopping and browsing, join a workshop or two, but remember these are bookable in advance. 

On Saturday 3 May, graphic novelists the Rickard Sisters are holding a Comic Art Workshop (£25) where you can learn how to create a visual narrative from your own life (you can also catch their free Author Talk and Book Signing). If you’ve always wanted to try your hand at linocuts, illustrator and printmaker Halina Isherwood is running a May Day Lino Printing Workshop (£20) to get you started with this captivating technique.

On Sunday 4 May you can join artist Helen Mather to learn all about the traditional May Day ribbons and make a keyring (this workshop is family friendly and suitable for ages 5+, check the website for more information on ticket prices). To add even more cheer to an already delightful weekend, the Hallé Ancoats Community Choir are performing in the Engine Hall and you can even take part in a free and wonderfully uplifting Singing Workshop with the choir’s director (suitable for all ages).

For a break from the hustle and bustle, you might want to slip away and explore the galleries too – drop in gallery tours are taking place throughout the weekend and the Playful Protest Space is open for creative family activities.