Things to do in Manchester this weekend from Cirque du Soleil to the Night Market

Learn to Play ‘22

Various locations, 8-9 October

If you’ve always wanted to learn how to play an instrument but never had the opportunity, or maybe if you haven’t figured out which instrument is right for you, charity Music for All is holding their flagship Learn to Play event this weekend in Manchester.

As part of the initiative, you can head over to the C.Bechstein Centre (Northern Quarter), PMT (Salford) or Forsyth Brothers Music Department store (Deansgate) for a free 10-15 minute music lesson. There are also tutorials on their YouTube channel.

More information can be found on the Music For All website.

The Night Market

Victoria Baths, 7 October

Over 100 independent businesses – including artists, jewellers, bakers – will be selling their wares at Victoria Baths this Friday night and the Night Market. Taking place between 6 pm and 11pm, there will also be food, bars and music to keep you entertained all night in between browsing the stalls.

Tickets cost £6, but there are also student and multiple purchase discounts available. Night Owl tickets for entry after 9pm are available for £4. A full list of ticket prices and more information about the event can be found on the Victoria Baths website.

Lucy & Yak Imperfects Sale

The People’s History Museum, 8-9 October

Socially and environmentally conscious clothing brand Lucy & Yak are coming to Manchester this weekend for a pop-up sale. They will be selling items with minor defects at discounted prices. Known for their signature dungarees, the Brighton-based brand will be bringing samples, as well their classic designs and new releases with imperfections.

They will be at The People’s History Museum on Saturday 8 October 12-5pm, and Sunday 10am-5pm.

Roundabout in Irlam 2022

Prince’s Park, Irlam, 6-9 October

The Paines Plough theatre company, in partnership with the Lowry, are bringing their pop-up, plug-in theatre to Irlam for a four-day program of theatre, comedy, music and workshops. There’s all sorts going on – from an audience with BBC Radio Manchester’s Mike Sweeney to a relaxing sound bath, from family art sessions to beatboxing masterclasses.

A lot of the events are free, but some are ticketed, so check the Roundabout website for more details.

Cirque du Soleil – Corteo

AO Arena, 5-9 October

The world-famous Cirque du Soleil is in Manchester with their latest show Corteo. This show tells the story of clown Mauro, as he watches his own carnival-like funeral procession. Expect swinging from chandeliers, a live marionette, aerial stunts and a giant clown playing golf. There are both matinee and evening performances. Tickets are priced around £55, depending on which day you go, what time you go and which seats you select. They can be purchased via Ticketmaster.

English National Ballet: Swan Lake

Palace Theatre, 5-8 October

The English National Ballet will be performing Derek Deane’s version of the timeless ballet Swan Lake. Danced to the music of Tchaikovsky, the ballet tells the tale of Prince Siegfried and Swan Queen Odette as they battle the Rothbart.

There are both matinee and evening performances. Tickets can be bought on the Palace Theatre box office website and start at £13.00.