Things to do with the kids in Manchester when it's raining this school holidays summer 2023

The summer holidays are here and it feels, well, nothing like summer.

So far the school holidays have been nothing but a washout, with little chance of families being able to head outdoors.

But never fear, as there are plenty of indoor activities to keep the kids happy and stop you all getting a good soaking.

Some of them are free too, which is music to the ears of parents wondering how they'll get through the holidays without winning the Lottery.

To make sure you're always up-to date with events, you can sign up to our Manchester Family newsletter for ideas throughout the summer.

There are loads of free workshops taking place at Aviva Studios, the home of Factory International, this summer.

The super-popular Yayoi Kusama: You, Me and the Balloons exhibition is running until August 28, with lots of free family fun alongside the ticketed event.

Sessions are drop-in so no booking is required and activities including everything from dressing up and creative writing, to craft making and sensory toys. You can see the full guide to Endless Summer here.

The opening of Yayoi Kusama's exhibition marked the start of Manchester International Festival, which has now come to a close.

Standard Tickets can be purchased online and cost from £7.50 per person.

Aviva Studios, Water Street, Manchester, M3 4JQ

A much-anticipated 'exhibition experience' based around the hit CBBC show Operation Ouch! has arrived in Manchester this summer.

Billed as the venue's 'most outrageous adventure yet', it investigates some of the body’s funniest functions with a voyage through the digestive system, guided via video messages and illustrations from the show's presenters Dr Chris, Dr Xand and Dr Ronx.

Titled Operation Ouch! Food, Poo and You, it's the