Things to do in Manchester this weekend: from Science Museum to Blues Kitchen

Bowie’s Birthday: An Orchestral Celebration

The Blues Kitchen, Manchester

A celebration on what would be the British music icon’s 76^th birthday will be taking place at Manchester’s Blues Kitchen on Sunday 8 January. Featuring a performance from The Untold Orchestra to capture the sounds of Bowie’s discography, tickets start at £16.50. Whether you’re a big fan of Bowie or not, the live music mixed with the atmosphere of the Blues Kitchen makes this a worthwhile endeavour. Ticket info is on their website here.

The Science and Industry Museum

Manchester

The museum is trying to keep family days out affordable with plenty of free or cheap activities this month. On Saturday 7 January and Sunday 8, shadowgraph extraordinaire Drew Colby will be performing his renowned Hand Shadow show, using the magic of light to share this ancient art, plus there is a new science show led by museum experts explaining the Northern Lights. Visitors can also discover a decade of the BBC in Manchester through the BBC 100 temporary display.

The Louise De-Cocodia Book Fair and Cultural Festival

Manchester Metropolitan University

This book fair and cultural festival taking place on Saturday 7 January from 10am hopes to introduce children and young adults to a wide range of literature they may have never come across before. Alongside this is a writing project that encourages visitors to imagine themselves as future authors. The event itself is free to make it more accessible to people and you can register at Eventbrite here.

The Halle – Viennese New Year

The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester

A traditional concert to help usher in the new year consisting of Viennese waltzes, polkas, marches and operettas. This year’s edition is set to be performed under the baton of conductor Stephen Bell with guest soprano Rebecca Bottone. Tickets start at £15 and the event is on 7 January from 3pm.

The Manchester Music Walkabout – Tour

The Bridgewater Hall

Starting at 1pm on Saturday 7 January, this tour aims to shed light on Manchester’s rich musical history. From Oasis to New Order this tour has something for everyone, whether you’re a self-proclaimed music lover or just someone who likes to casually listen. Newer bands will also be included to give exposure to those coming up in the scene from the area. Tickets start at £16.76 from Eventbrite.