October

Creative Tourist Last Updated 9 May 2023

There’s plenty of things to do this October in Manchester and the North as the galleries and auditoriums step up and start knocking out some of the year’s best work.

The culturally curious have plenty to investigate in the way of exhibitions, live theatre and music, and there’s lots for families too, with the Museum of Science and Industry’s Manchester Science Festival an annual highlight. And let’s not forget the first ever production at Factory International (well, outside of Manchester International Festival of course): Free Your Mind, a Matrix-themed performance directed by Danny Boyle.

This is also the time of year for light festivals, as well as plenty of events running up to Halloween, and then Bonfire Night.

Seasonal Guides

An illustration people shopping at The Hepworth Wakefield Festive Market

Christmas Shopping in the North

Back away from the high street and support some of Manchester’s best independent makers, sellers and curators this Christmas.

Christmas Theatre and Concerts

As the big day approaches, you can count on theatres and concert halls across the North to pull out all the festive stops.

New Year’s Eve in the North

From warehouse raves to live funk and soul, vegan street food to fancy dining, here’s our guide to New Year’s Eve in Manchester and the North.

Christmas Markets in the North

Makers, bakers and curators will be out in force this festive season as the North’s best Christmas Markets whirr into action.

Christmas in the North

If you’re looking for alternative or interesting things to do over Christmas in Manchester and the North, look no further.

Christmas food and drink

The holidays are coming so that means it’s time to eat, drink and be merry for Christmas 2025.

Cultural Calendar 2025

Our editors’ biannually updated list of some of the best-looking arts and cultural events in Manchester and the North in 2025.

Destinations

Spotlight on

Things to do in Blackpool

Fancy a festive day trip? Explore our guide to Blackpool and build yourself an itinerary featuring attractions, galleries, restaurants and more.

Take me there

Culture Guides

Theatre in the North

From contemporary dance to ballet classics, and cult rock ‘n’ roll musicals to new writing, our theatre guide spans the festive season and beyond.

Family things to do in the North

As we move into festive season, Manchester and the North is packed with fun events and activities for families, both indoors and outdoors.

A man is dressed as an Elf in a decorated department store.

Cinema in the North

Get ready for animated classics, Muppet mayhem and a whole host of New York movies -- it's Christmas time in the cinema.

Classical Music in the North

Read our latest highlights from the live classical music offer in Manchester and the North, taking in a number of the region's most cherished orchestral forces and venues.

Tours and Activities in the North

Munch away the Autumnal blues with this foodie orientated guide of Tours and Activities in Manchester and the North.

Literature Events in the North

Bookish goings-on are perfect for picking up presents for others and treats to get yourself through the cold, dark days ahead.

Food and Drink in the North

Take some autumnal eating-out tips from this month's guide to food and drink in Manchester and the North.

Walker & Bromwich, Love Cannon, 2006, lambda print Photo:

Exhibitions inthe North

Before the festive season completely takes over, we've rounded up some of the best exhibitions to see right now.