Things to do in Manchester over the May bank holiday weekend

Though it’s only a few weeks since we enjoyed a four-day Easter break, we’re already approaching our next extended break. The first of May’s two bank holidays takes place on Monday, 6 May and there’s a number of events and activities taking place to mark the occasion.

Some will want to use the extra day off work to get in an extra lie-in, but others will want to make the most of the free time, and fortunately, there’s plenty going on across Greater Manchester this coming weekend, from train rides and Southern-inspired barbeques to live gigs and flower trails.

If you’ve not quite made your mind up on how to make the most of the three-day weekend or are in need of a bit of inspiration, below you’ll find a quick guide to what’s on across the region this weekend.

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Amongst the busy roster of events and live shows taking place across the city-region is the return of Keane as part of a special 20th anniversary show, a music festival dedicated to 90s tribute bands, and a family-friendly festival dedicated to all things diggers.

As always, we recommend you double-check all listings and event details with the organisers before making the trip just in case things change.

A sweeping state-of-the-nation play that embraces huge political and economic ideas in a magnificent gritty social drama continues at The Royal Exchange this week. Lynn Nottage’s 2017 Pulitzer-Prize winning drama, directed by Jade Lewis is already being tipped to become an ‘American Classic’, and what better way to spend the Saturday of a three-day weekend than immersed in some drama.

Nottage’s stunning writing pits best friends Tracey and Cynthia against one another as social and