Greater Manchester is buzzing with a diverse array of events this May 2025, offering something for everyone—from music and art enthusiasts to foodies and families. Here’s a curated selection of the most exciting happenings across the region:
🎨 Arts & Culture
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Stories – Brought to Life by National Gallery Unframed
📍MediaCityUK, Salford | 📅 Until 31 August
Experience a ground breaking immersive art exhibition featuring portraits of iconic UK figures like Emmeline Pankhurst and Amy Winehouse. Through archival footage, photography, animation, and original audio, this multi-sensory show redefines the traditional gallery visit. Northern Group -
L.S. Lowry’s ‘Going to the Match’ Exhibition
📍The Lowry, Salford | 📅 From 3 May
Celebrate The Lowry’s 25th anniversary with a free, immersive experience that delves into football, community, and culture—central themes in L.S. Lowry’s art and Salford’s heritage. Northern Group -
Come Fall In Love – The DDLJ Musical
📍Manchester Opera House | 📅 29 May – 21 June
A contemporary reimagining of the Bollywood classic “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” hits the stage, bringing the timeless romance of Raj and Simran to a new generation. @EconomicTimes
🎶 Music & Festivals
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Manchester Jazz Festival
📍Various Venues | 📅 16–25 May
Marking its 30th anniversary, this 10-day festival showcases contemporary, homegrown, and international jazz artists across Manchester, including the return of its popular piano trail. Visit Manchester -
Deansgate Mews Festival
📍Great Northern Warehouse | 📅 23–25 May
Enjoy a free, family-friendly outdoor celebration featuring food, drink, entertainment, and live music from over 40 artists across four stages. Northern Group -
ManiFest at The Oast House
📍Spinningfields | 📅 24–26 May
This free, three-day music festival fills The Oast House’s outdoor courtyard with live performances, refreshing drinks, and hearty food—perfect for the bank holiday weekend. Northern Group -
Manchester Forever Festival
📍Bowlers Exhibition Centre | 📅 25 May
Relive the golden eras of Manchester’s escorts, club and rave scenes with a nostalgic, one-day music festival featuring iconic dance and house tracks from the ’80s, ’90s, and early 2000s. Northern Group -
Celebrate LYF Afro Latin Dance Festival
📍Manchester | 📅 23–26 May
Immerse yourself in a weekend of Afro Latin rhythms, vibrant dances like Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba, and Zouk, with workshops and performances by international artists and DJs. Trip.com
🌸 Food, Flowers & Family Fun
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Manchester Flower Festival
📍Various City Centre Locations | 📅 23–25 May
The city’s streets bloom with floral displays and art installations celebrating Manchester and other great cities worldwide, accompanied by pop-up bars, live entertainment, workshops, and arts and crafts markets. Northern Group -
Heaton Park Food & Drink Festival
📍Heaton Park | 📅 25–26 May
Indulge in a celebration of artisan eats, craft drinks, and family fun with street food traders, chef demos, tasting sessions, live music, and entertainment for all ages. Northern Group -
Funfairs at Debdale and Wythenshawe Parks
📍Debdale Park & Wythenshawe Park | 📅 24 May – 1 June
Enjoy classic funfair attractions suitable for all ages, making it a perfect family outing during the half-term break. Manchester City Council
🏃♂️ Sports & Outdoor Activities
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Great Manchester Run
📍City Centre & Surroundings | 📅 26 May
Join or cheer on participants in one of the UK’s largest running events, featuring 10K and Half Marathon races through Manchester’s iconic streets, supported by live entertainment and enthusiastic crowds. Northern Group -
Zip World Manchester
📍Heaton Park | 📅 Until 31 August
Experience an aerial adventure with swings, climbs, bounces, and zip lines through the trees—fun for all ages with adult supervision required for children aged 3+. Manchester City Council+1Manchester City Council+1 -
Envirolution Festival
📍Platt Fields Park | 📅 31 May
A free, inclusive festival offering practical solutions to the climate emergency, supporting Manchester City Council’s net-zero goals, and featuring workshops, talks, and community activities. Manchester City Council
🎭 Theatre & Performance
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Mary Poppins
📍Palace Theatre | 📅 Throughout May
Cameron Mackintosh and Disney’s spectacular production of the classic, multi-award-winning musical “Mary Poppins” graces the stage as part of its UK and Ireland tour. ManchesterTheatres.com -
A Knight’s Tale The Musical
📍Manchester Opera House | 📅 4 May
Based on the 2001 film, this brand-new comedy musical makes its world premiere in Manchester before heading to the West End. ManchesterTheatres.com
Whether you’re a local or visiting, Greater Manchester offers a vibrant mix of events this May. From immersive art exhibitions and music festivals to family-friendly funfairs and outdoor adventures, there’s something to suit every interest. Don’t miss out on these exciting happenings!
