What’s on in Manchester this Spring.

With the days getting longer and weather getting warmer, Spring is fast approaching. Not only do you have our 2023 Degree Shows to look forward to, there’s plenty happening in and around the city – from music, film, food and art, there’s something for everyone to get involved with. Here’s just some of our top recommendations:

MANFF

Back for its ninth year, the Manchester International Film Festival (MANIFF) returns to the Odeon Great Northern, from the 10 to 19 March. 

Over the 10 day festival you can watch dozens of films, shorts and documentaries, as well as get involved with Q&A sessions with the cast and crew. Featuring films such as Blazing Neon, Chevalier, and the critically acclaimed Rye Lane, MANIFF is a must if you’re a fan of cinema and want to see emerging talent on the big screen. 

To buy an event pass, head to the official website. Or alternatively, head to the MANIFF calendar page and buy individual tickets for films / sessions that take your fancy.

Manchester Punk Festival

MPF is taking over the city across the Easter weekend; 7-9 April. They’re hosting over 140 acts across seven iconic venues in the city, including Gorilla, The Bread Shed and Sandbar.

We want to provide an environment where people want to watch bands they’ve never heard of alongside bands they love, and an environment for bands to play in front of their best friends and complete strangers.

MPF

The wonderful Sarah; first year BSc (Hons) Live Audio Engineering and Music Production student, is headily involved in the organisation of the event. Get your tickets here to show your support.

Manchester Museum reopening

After closing in 2021 to undertake a £15 million refurbishment, at long last the Manchester Museum finally reopened this February.  With a suite of new exhibits (alongside many returning well-loved attractions too), it’s no surprise that the opening weekend was a huge success, surpassing 50,000 visitors. 

Only a short walk from Spirit, why not head over the road before class to see what all the fuss is about. Although admission is free, the museum recommends booking tickets online in advance to ensure you get to see some of the more popular attractions. Head over to their website to find out more.

Andy Burnham’s ‘Artist of the Month’

Back in January, Andy Burnham announced a new initiative to help put a spotlight on Manchester’s up-and-coming artists. At the end of each month, during his weekly ‘Hot Seat phone-in’ interview session at BBC Radio Manchester, Andy Burnham will announce his ‘Artist of the Month’, and proceed to play one of their tracks to close out the show. 

This incredible opportunity is available to anyone aged 16 and over that is based in Greater Manchester, and who has music available to be shared online or on a streaming service. To find out more and to apply to be featured, click here. 

Hamilton tickets go on sale ahead of next Autumn

The West End smash hit musical, Hamilton, is coming to Manchester for a whopping 15 weeks at the Palace Theatre next Autumn – and tickets go on sale this month! General sale opens to the public on Monday 13th March, so head to the ATG tickets website here to grab yours.

Zouk’s Ramadan Buffet returns from 22 March

Returning on 22 March, Zouk’s famous Ramadan Buffet offers the perfect opportunity to celebrate Iftar with friends, family and the Manchester community. With a mouth-watering spread; from fruit chaat, Vegetable Samosas and Seekh Kebab to start, to Tarka Dall, Chicken Sindhi Biryani and a Leg Lamb Raan carvery, this is one big feast!

The buffet is £25 per adult and £12.50 per child, with advance booking highly recommended. Secure a table here.

Spirit Studios Degree Show

And finally, if you haven’t already secured your tickets for the end of year Degree Shows, make sure to do so soon. Three nights to celebrate our final years… what’s not to love?