Kokoroko at New Century
London-based eight-piece Kokoroko bring their fusion of jazz and afrobeat to Manchester this November. Led by Sheila Maurice-Grey, the group lace together their influences and draw from the West African music they grew up with. Kokoroko play at New Century on Monday 25 November.
Circle of Madness screening and talk with The North Face athlete Markus Eder
Outdoors brand The North Face present a screening of feature documentary Circle of Madness at Cultplex, in which skier Markus Eder and snowboarder Victor de Le Rue return to the legendary spine walls of Haines, Alaska – the place where extreme free-riding movies were born. The awesome vistas will be followed by a talk from Eder about making the movie, presented in partnership with Manchester-outdoors icons Ellis Brigham. Proceeds from the event will go to Mandem Meetup.
Childish Gambino at AO Arena
A modern day polymath, there’s not much Donald Glover can’t do. Act, sing, write, direct, produce; the man is bewilideringly skilled. Now back on his music tip, after helming the superb Mr & Mrs Smith series for Amazon Studios, he’s reassuming his Childish Gambino alias and heading out on his first world tour in five years. Following a string of US dates, he will land in the UK for six dates in November, including a show in Manchester. Known for hits including Redbone and the searing This Is America, he will play at the AO Arena on Tuesday 26 November 2024.
The Great British Bake Off Finale Screening at Fairfield Social Club
On your marks, get set, bake. Fairfield Social Club invites you to a fun-filled screening of The Great British Bake Off, as the final episode airs. It is the perfect opportunity for Bake-Off fans to enjoy the trials, triumphs and tribulations of the final episode in the company of fellow fans, with hopefully no soggy bottoms in sight. The fun kicks off with a themed Happy Hour from 7-8pm, with buy-one-get-one-free cocktails inspired by Prue, Paul, Alison and Noel. Every ticket includes a freshly baked pastry from Half Dozen Other too.
Charli XCX at Co-op Live
Global superstar and all-round pop icon Charli XCX brings Brat winter to Manchester. Part of her biggest-ever headline tour, the singer-songwriter will dominate Co-op Live on Wednesday 27 November. Support will come from special guest Shygirl.
Mind To Mood Summit at Bonded Warehouse
A summit event aimed at tackling burnout in young professionals and entrepreneurs arrives in Manchester this week. The M2M Summit will be hosted by Mind To Mood, and aims to ‘bring together thought leaders, mental health experts, and independent professionals to provide practical strategies and valuable insights’.
Glow at RHS Garden Bridgewater
RHS Bridgewater in Worsley once again steps into the Christmas spirit with Glow, the gardens’ festive light trail. Create magical memories with stunning illuminations, rainbow lights and activities for the all of the family. Prepare to be dazzled by thousands of lights twinkling across the garden and magnificent trees, shrubs and water features in a breathtaking spectrum of light. Don’t miss the spectacular light shows, as talented performers create mind-blowing effects every night.
West Art Collective x Fruity Frenzy Present: MAKE YOUR MARK at Antwerp Mansion
West Art Collective and Fruit Frenzy present new exhibition MAKE YOUR MARK this November. The exhibition will celebrate the materiality of making a mark, highlighting the variety of techniques, media, and processes that artists use to create and communicate. From brush strokes and textures to conceptual or digital marks, the artwork will embody the power of personal expression.
Romy Gill Book Launch Dinner at Kala
Chef Romy Gill MBE celebrates the launch of her new book with a very special dinner at Gary Usher’s fabulous bistro Kala in Manchester. The chef, food writer and broadcaster will create a spectacular feast with recipes from the new book on Thursday 28 November 2024.
Where The Light Gets In pop-up at Altogether Otherwise
Altogether Otherwise – the multi-faceted ‘hobby house in Shudehill – raid the cellars of WTLGI to bring you their favourite natural wines from the continent. Oysters, wild birds and skewers cooked over wood. Weekend DJ takeovers from local labels and record shops. The takeover, intriguingly named Man Eating a Leg of Chicken, runs Thursday to Saturday, 21 November to 20 December 2024, from 5pm to late. Entry is free and you do not need to make a reservation.
Christmas Wreath Workshop at Seesaw
Get into the holiday spirit with a Christmas wreath workshop at Seesaw in Manchester city centre. Hosted by the lovely Stockport-based Floral Collective, guests are invited to join the session, have a drink and chat with fellow crafters. Sessions take place on 28 and 29 November 2024.
Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK Finale Viewing Party at Fairfield Social Club
Start your engines and get ready for the fiercest finale of the year as RuPaul’s Drag Race UK crowns the UK’s next drag superstar. Fairfield Social Club is bringing all the glamour, glitter and gags with a fabulous viewing party on Thursday 28 November, where you can watch the queens battle it out for the ultimate crown. The night will feature Drag Race-themed cocktails and delicious bar snacks to keep you fuelled for all the moments ahead. Every ticket includes a drink, so you can sip on something fabulous while you cheer for your favourite queen.
Designer Spotlight at The Yard Atelier
Launched February 2024 by industry experts Caroline Herz and Georgina Housley, The Yard Atelier is Manchester’s first non-profit fashion Atelier, dedicated to fostering local talent. With extensive backgrounds in fashion design and education, the founders bring a wealth of experience and a shared vision of creating a dynamic, collaborative workspace and incubator for emerging designers. Join all eleven resident designers for an evening of fashion, networking, and celebration, featuring shopping opportunities and music from a live DJ.
Christmas wreath making workshop at Leo & Roobs
Come get cosy for a wreath making workshop in the stylish surrounds of Leo & Roobs cafe, the perfect event to get you in the festive spirit. You will be guided by expert and award-winning florist David Wayman, who will guide you through creating your very best Christmas wreath. All equipment and wreaths are provided and a welcome drink upon arrival.
Fontaines D.C. at Aviva Studios
Grammy-nominated post-punk outfit Fontaines D.C. come to Manchester in support of their upcoming fourth album ROMANCE. The Dublin five-piece stop off at the Warehouse space at Aviva Studios on Friday 29 November.
COOK! with the Vegetarian Society: Build A Banh Mi
Learn how to make the ultimate Vietnamese street food with the Vegetarian Society. Enrol on their banh mi workshop to discover the secrets to creating one of the greatest sandwiches in existence, which pairs the disparate culinary traditions of Vietnam and France. This hands-on class is perfect for food enthusiasts who want to learn how to create a delicious plant-based version of the classic banh mi. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this workshop will guide you through the process of making this iconic dish from scratch.
Christmas Bordeaux Bonanza – A tasting of Cru Bourgeois Wines at The Maldron
Manchester Wine School host a wine tasting of the Cry Bourgeous Wines this festive season. The Crus Bourgeois are a family of châteaux located in eight famous red wine districts on what is known as the Left Bank of Bordeaux: Médoc, Haut-Médoc, Listrac-Médoc, Moulis-en-Médoc, Margaux, Pauillac, Saint-Julien, and Saint Estèphe. This is the part of Bordeaux where Cabernet Sauvignon performs at its best, although most of the wines also include Merlot, Cabernet Franc and occasionally other grapes. Guests can enjoy at least eight of the wines, including examples from Margaux, Listrac, Moulis and St Estèphe. There’ll also be some fine cheddar and charcuterie as accompaniment.
Deceptioncon Robot on display at People’s History Museum
Twelve months after it appeared on the picket line at Amazon’s BHX4 warehouse in Coventry the ‘Deceptioncon’ robot costume will go on display at People’s History Museum (PHM) in Manchester. It was created by members of the GMB union and was worn at a strike that took place on Black Friday in November 2023 to illustrate how Amazon workers felt that they were being treated like robots. Deceptioncon will go on display at the national museum of democracy from Friday 29 November 2024.
Sipsmith’s Gin Tasting Masterclass
In the luxury surroundings of Harvey Nichols, and guided by Sipsmith’s expert team, discover the fascinating origins of gin and taste history in a glass as you sample a variety of gins, including Sipsmith’s new Origin 1639. You’ll also learn the art of gin distillation, gain insider tips on creating the perfect gin cocktail, and leave with an enhanced appreciation for the skill and dedication that goes into every bottle. Secure your place now for an evening of gin exploration, where heritage meets innovation at Harvey Nichols. Tickets are £20 per person, and are fully redeemable on Sipsmith purchases on the night, and include entry to the event, a variety of gin tastings and light nibbles.
Mas O Menos honours Johanna Mathe
Mas O Menos, the renowned Manchester-based record label, is set to pay tribute to the late Johanna Mathe with a special party on November 29th at The Goods In, Prestwich. The event will feature a lineup of 11 underground greats – Tom Boogizm, Metrodome, Levi Love, Joey T, Mako MCR, Subz, Kaskie, Compass, Playback Groove, Archaic and Stallone – celebrating the life and legacy of Johanna, who was a source of inspiration for the label and its founder, her son, Levi Love.
The Night Before 1st Birthday at YES
Celebrating a year of parties at spots from Islington Mill to Salford stalwart The Eagle Inn, The Night Before will be heading for the rave den at YES, taking over the sweatbox basement for a night of party-orientated eclectica. Selectors on the night will include residents Joey T, Cosmik and Tom Swallow, with a guest appearance from the one, and as far as we’re aware only, Ruf Dug of Wet Play and more recently Rainy Heart notoriety. Deep, subterranean vibes.
XXL at The Warehouse Project
The flagship XXL event returns to Manchester for another edition of the largest indoor techno experience in the UK. Presented by Teletech and The Warehouse Project, XXL takes place at Depot Mayfield on Saturday 30 November.
Bound Art Book Fair at The Whitworth
Bound Art Book Fair returns to The Whitworth on Saturday 30 November and Sunday 1 December 2024. The fair will feature dozens of local and international publishers, artist presses and collectives, as well as a free public programme of talks, workshops and parties.
Wine & Cheese Party at Ancoats Deli
This Ancoats gem has proved one of our favourite openings of the year, with top produce, top drinks and general top vibes. In general. If you’ve not discovered them yet, here’s your chance. They’re throwing one of their wine and cheese parties, with great bevs from Yapp, Top Cuvee and Modest Merchant and top tier cheese from some of their excellent suppliers from the UK and Europe. Grab a selection from their wine list for just £5 a glass, and a plate of cheese also for £5. It’s a grown-up and classy way to spend a Saturday evening, but they do have martinis, so there’s the opportunity for the wheels to come off.
Festive Winter Fair at Victoria Baths
Victoria Baths will host a festive winter fair welcoming shoppers to browse over 50 stalls of independent makers on Sunday 1 December 2024. The fair encapsulates the very best traditions of Christmas shopping, and the historic building will be decked out to look its seasonal best. Browse a wide range of Christmas gift ideas from Manchester’s finest makers, crafters and creators whilst listening to a soundtrack of Christmas carols. There will also be mulled wine and mince pies on offer – the perfect way to start the festivities.
Rare Finds Market at Altogether Otherwise
The Rare Finds Market will be popping up at Altogether Otherwise with a unique collection of stalls including second-hand traders, hobbyists and artists selling homeware, quality clothing, handmade pieces and loads more for the holidays. Head down to the ‘hobby house’ in Manchester city centre from 11am on Sunday 1 December and nail that Christmas pressie list.
Marigold Christmas Market at Track Brewing Co.
Marigold Market returns for a day of Christmas shopping and sipping with some of Manchester’s most exciting small brands. With local businesses spanning: fashion, accessories, home, jewellery, flowers, kidswear and more. Expect to see some of your faves such as: Thanks A Bunch, Marbu, ROOP, Evie Joynes, , Blóma, The Floral Collective, Be Diddy and Sandwith Studio. Track will of course be serving up their famous pints and Blossom Coffee will be there to keep you caffeinated whilst you get your Christmas shopping done. It’s even dog friendly. Secure a ticket to stay up to date with all info about the market and guarantee entry. You’re also welcome to walk in on the day, so bring all your friends! £1 entry on the door will be donated to Manchester Central Foodbank (cash and card accepted).