May

Creative Tourist Last Updated 9 May 2023

Summer is just around the corner, festivals are coming into view, and the warmer weather is getting everyone feeling a bit more inclined to get out there and explore what Manchester and the North’s has to offer by way of culture.

Happily there’s a whole lot. Spring Half Term and Spring Bank Holiday are always filled with great exhibitions, theatre shows and gigs, and the region’s many excellent restaurants are rolling out fresh new seasonal menus.

And if the increasing temperatures have got you feeling really brave, why not try some wild swimming? Or adventure activities? Or take it easier while exploring the North via the best of its Outdoor Art.

Seasonal Guides

Things to do over October half-term

Looking for things to do with the family over the May half-term holiday? We’ve got you covered.

Black History Month in Manchester and the North

Discover the North West’s best Black History Month events, including exhibitions, theatre and dance.

Light Festivals in the North

From enchanting lantern parades to epic LED installations, light festivals are a brilliant way celebrate the magic of the winter months.

Courses and Workshops in the North

Spanning an array of visual and textile arts, explore courses and workshops based in some of the North’s most distinctive locations.

Cultural Calendar 2024

Our editors’ biannually updated list of some of the best-looking arts and cultural events in Manchester and the North in 2024.

Wild Swimming in the North of England

The definitive guide to wild swimming in the North, taking in lakes, rivers and reservoirs across the region.

Outdoor Activities

Get out and about with our guide to interesting, unusual and distinctly cultural outdoor events and outdoor activities.

Destinations

Spotlight on

Black History Month in Manchester and the North

Discover the North West's best Black History Month events, including exhibitions, theatre and dance.

Take me there

Culture Guides

Family things to do in Manchester and the North

School may have started, but the arts and cultural fun hasn't stopped! From spooky theatre to arty parties, families are spoilt for choice.

Exhibitions in Manchester and the North

Autumn may just be the best season for new exhibitions - this month's guide has it all, from Turner Prize nominees to joyful ceramics.

A man and a woman look up, covered in blood.

Cinema in Manchester and the North

A host of Halloween horrors, London Film Festival in Manchester, plus silent movie masterpieces are amongst our highlights this month.

Theatre in Manchester and the North

Experimental performance, Halloween-themed cabaret and an eclectic selection of dance all take top spots in our new guide.

Classical Music in Manchester and the North

Read our latest highlights from the live classical music offer in Manchester and the North, taking in a number of the region's most cherished orchestral forces and venues.

Music in Manchester and the North

From DIY gigs to blockbuster multi-media events, we’ve covered the lot in our latest round-up of unmissable live music.

Tours and Activities in Manchester and the North

Seek out beauty in the mundane, or seek it out in the selections of the UK's best rising visual artists in this month's Tours and Activities guide.

Food and Drink in Manchester and the North

Take some eating-out tips from this month's guide to food and drink in Manchester and the North.