March in Manchester is shaping up to be a month to remember! With spring approaching, and celebrations of Easter, Mother’s Day & Paddy’s Day, the city is hosting a range of events and activities to keep us busy! Join us as we take a closer look at what’s happening this month…
Cirque Du Soleil @ AO Arena
Cirque du Soleil is returning to the UK for the first time in six years with its newly revisited high-energy and high-acrobatic production OVO, which is a colourful intrusion into a new day in the life of insects; a ‘non-stop riot of energy and movement’. Through show-stopping acrobatics highlighting the unique personalities and abilities of selected insect species, OVO explores the beauty of biodiversity in all its contrasts and vibrancy. Loved by children and adults alike, OVO’s return to the UK for its 2024 arena run will appeal to audiences of all ages once again, but this time with 3 new acts and characters to excite the crowds.
From Wednesday 27th – Sunday 31st March!
Tickets & more information: Cirque Du Soleil: OVO | AO Arena (ao-arena.com)
Manchester Film Festival @ The Odeon Great North
For its landmark 10th year, The Odeon North welcomes back the Manchester Film Festival! The program boasts a diverse array of Manchester, UK, and worldwide premieres, with some films having already garnered acclaim on the global film festival circuit. More than just a film showcase, the MFF serves as a vibrant cultural spotlight, highlighting the talents and creativity of independent filmmakers. Committed to artistic excellence, inclusivity, and innovation, the festival offers a rich program including shorts, features, premieres, Q&A sessions, red carpet glamour, and much more, making it Manchester's premier cinematic event of the year!
From Friday 15th - Sunday 24th March!
Tickets & more information available here: https://manchesterfilmfestival.com/
Patrick's Day Parade and Festival
The Irish World Heritage Centre is once again, organising The Manchester St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival! The festivities will kick off with The Manchester St. Patrick's Day Parade returns to the Irish World Heritage Centre this year! On Sunday, March 10th, 2024, the festivities will kick off once again with the parade departing from The Irish World Heritage Centre. The day promises a full slate of celebrations. This year's parade route will see participants leaving IWHC, turning left onto Queens Road, then left onto Cheetham Hill Road. From there, the parade will continue straight up to the AO Arena, passing Manchester Fort along the way, before looping back and heading back to the IWHC. Clocking in at roughly 2.5 miles long, last year's parade took about 2 hours to complete, ensuring plenty of time for a vibrant and lively spectacle for all to enjoy!
On Sunday 17th March!
Full route & more information: https://iwhc.com/manchester-st-patricks-day-parade-2024/
Queen B Bottomless Drag Brunch @ On Bar
Calling all Independent Women & Single Ladies! A new Beyonce-inspired daytime drag extravaganza is coming to On Bar! Featuring the sensational Cara Melle (from series 5 of RuPaul's Drag Race UK!) and a lineup of the finest drag artists from London and Manchester, this event promises to be a day to remember! Bottomless beverages, delicious food and hours of performances and music in celebration of the legend herself: Queen B.
On Saturday 23rd March!
Tickets & more information: https://feverup.com/m/92015
Manchester Open Exhibition @ HOME
Taking place every two years, the Open Exhibition is the biggest celebration of Greater Manchester’s creative talent and is on for the whole of March! The HOME Gallery walls will be filled with 480 artworks curated by submissions from local residents, selected by a panel consisting of art experts and community representatives. The Exhibition spans a range of artwork including paintings, prints, photography, sculpture, ceramics, digital and mixed media, video, audio and more. There will be a programme of events including free guided tours led by a variety of artists & experts offering a personalized perspective on the showcased works, as each host goes through their favourite pieces, often with a thematic focus close to their heart, ensuring that no two tours are ever the same.
Don't miss the chance to be part of this extraordinary celebration of art and community. Whether you're an avid art enthusiast or simply looking for an inspiring way to spend your day, the Open Exhibition at HOME Gallery promises an unforgettable experience that highlights the boundless creativity flourishing within Greater Manchester's vibrant cultural landscape.
Open NOW until the 28th April!
FREE Tickets & more information: https://homemcr.org/exhibition/manchester-open-2024/
National Trust’s Easter Egg Hunt @ Dunham Massey
Celebrate Easter at Dunham Massey with their Egg Hunt Trail! Designed for families, this adventure features ten activity stations highlighting the joys of spring. The route will take you through the medieval deer park, 400-year-old mill, and stunning gardens, discovering hidden treasures along the way. Every trail participant will be treated to a chocolate egg sourced from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms in the UK, adding an extra touch of indulgence to the outdoor escapade. With 300 acres to explore and a herd of fallow deer to admire, Dunham Massey offers the perfect Easter escape for all ages!
From Wednesday 20th March – Sunday 31st March, 10am-4pm!
Tickets & more information: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/cheshire-greater-manchester/dunham-massey/events/a87892a6-0a72-4b8e-9e74-c6b5f2650e89
International Women’s Day Networking Event @ Colony One Silk Street
Join us in celebrating International Women's Day with the fantastic Amy Lynch, Head of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Thoughtworks (Spain, Italy & UK). Amy has been working with technology teams for over a decade and is included on the Northern Power Women's Futures list and named as a Trans Ally at the 2023 Trans in the City awards. She is an adaptable leader and advocates for social justice and a more equitable future for all. This year's International Women’s Day theme, "Inspire Inclusion," guides our event, amplifying the celebration of women's achievements and the promotion of diversity. Amy will speak about the 10 things she had wished she'd known earlier in her life/career and provide some helpful tips! This event marks the launch of Colony's new networking series that will be held quarterly to bring Manchester's business & professional community together in our ever-growing network of workspace & events venues! Creating new opportunities and connections for attendees.
On Thursday 7th March at 6pm!
Tickets & more information: https://colonyco.work/intl-womens-day-keynote-and-networking-event
Makers Market @ Cutting Room Square, Ancoats
This Sunday, The Makers Market returns to Ancoats and as always, will be showcasing an array of our fantastic local independent traders. Expect artisanal food & drink, homewares and soft furnishings, accessories, prints, ceramics and much more. The Markets grace Cutting Room Square monthly and are also set up on different dates around various Manchester locations, so keep an eye out for other dates and locations! Don’t miss out on a wholesome Sunday out & the opportunity to treat yourself & support your local community!
On Sunday 7th March from 11am – 5pm!
Tickets & more information: https://colonyco.work/intl-womens-day-keynote-and-networking-event
We hope you all have a magical March and embrace lots of what Manchester has to offer! Whether you're a local resident or visiting our beloved city, immerse yourself in the diverse array of offerings & create lasting memories in one of the best cities in the world!