If you’re searching for what’s on in Manchester this April, the city is packed with events across music, culture, food and family-friendly experiences. As the weather improves and the Easter holidays arrive, Manchester city centre, Salford and Greater Manchester all have a wide range of things to do across the city.
For those living in Manchester or considering a move to the city, April is one of the best times to explore everything on offer. From late-night venues and live music to exhibitions and outdoor events, many of these experiences are located just minutes from some of Manchester’s most popular residential areas, making it easy to enjoy the city’s lifestyle year-round.
Love International x The Loft: Palms Trax & Dave Harvey
Friday 3rd April 2026
The Loft MCR
Kicking off the month, this event is set to be one of the standout nightlife events in Manchester this April. Love International, one of Europe’s most respected electronic music festivals, brings its signature sound from the Croatian coast to Manchester’s underground scene. Hosted at The Loft MCR, the night features Palms Trax and Dave Harvey, two DJs known for their ability to blend house, disco and electronic music into seamless, dancefloor-focused sets.
For those living in Manchester city centre or nearby areas such as Ancoats and the Northern Quarter, events like this highlight the strength of the city’s nightlife offering. With globally recognised artists regularly performing in intimate venues, Manchester continues to attract music lovers looking for high-quality, late-night experiences right on their doorstep.
The Mystery of Banksy – A Genius Mind
Throughout April
Depot Mayfield
As one of the biggest art exhibitions in Manchester this April, The Mystery of Banksy arrives at Depot Mayfield as part of its global tour. This immersive exhibition features over 200 recreated works, alongside large-scale installations, photography and sculptures that explore some of Banksy’s most recognisable pieces. Visitors can expect to see interpretations of iconic works such as Girl With Balloon and Devolved Parliament, as well as fully transformed environments designed to bring the artist’s world to life.
Located close to Manchester Piccadilly, Depot Mayfield has quickly become one of the city’s key cultural venues, hosting large-scale events and exhibitions throughout the year. For residents living in central Manchester, it offers easy access to major cultural experiences without needing to travel far, reinforcing the appeal of city centre living.
Bubble Planet: An Immersive Experience
Throughout April
Depot Mayfield
Also taking place at Depot Mayfield, Bubble Planet is one of the most unique family-friendly events in Manchester this April. Designed as a fully immersive and interactive experience, the attraction invites visitors to step into a surreal world built around bubbles, light and imagination. With a mix of physical installations, sensory rooms and virtual reality elements, it offers something different from traditional exhibitions.
This type of experience is particularly popular during the Easter holidays, providing an engaging indoor activity for families, couples and groups. Its central Manchester location makes it easily accessible from across the city, adding to the growing number of attractions that make Manchester an appealing place to live for both young professionals and families.
Happy Mondays
Saturday 11th April 2026
O2 Victoria Warehouse Manchester
Manchester’s music heritage takes centre stage this April as Happy Mondays return for a series of live shows, making this one of the most anticipated live music events in Manchester in April 2026. Taking place at O2 Victoria Warehouse, the performances celebrate the band’s iconic album Pills ’n’ Thrills and Bellyaches, which played a defining role in the Madchester era. Fans can expect to hear classic tracks such as Step On, Kinky Afro and 24 Hour Party People, alongside other well-known hits.
Live music continues to be a major part of Manchester’s identity, with venues across the city regularly hosting both established and emerging artists. For those living in Manchester, access to events like this is a key part of the lifestyle, contributing to the city’s reputation as one of the UK’s leading music destinations.
Easter Makers Markets
Sunday 5th April
Ancoats & MediaCity
The Easter Makers Markets provide a relaxed and community-focused day out. Taking place across two popular neighbourhoods, the markets bring together independent traders, artisan food vendors, street food stalls and local creatives, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the day.
Events like this highlight the strong sense of community across Manchester’s neighbourhoods, particularly in areas such as Ancoats, which has become one of the city’s most desirable places to live. With a mix of independent businesses, green spaces and regular local events, it offers a lifestyle that continues to attract both residents and visitors alike.
Museum of Illusions Easter Egg Hunt
3rd – 19th April
Museum of Illusions Manchester
If you’re searching for Easter activities in Manchester for families, the Museum of Illusions is hosting a themed egg hunt alongside its popular interactive exhibits. Visitors can explore the museum while taking part in a building-wide hunt, with prizes available for those who complete it. Seasonal decorations and a dedicated Easter-themed creative space add to the experience, making it particularly appealing for younger visitors.
Located in the heart of Manchester, the Museum of Illusions is already known for its engaging, hands-on exhibits that challenge perception and encourage interaction. Events like this make it an even more attractive option during school holidays, especially for families looking for indoor activities in the city centre.
Easter Fun at Reddish Vale Farm
28th March – 6th April
Reddish Vale Farm
For a more traditional day out, Reddish Vale Farm offers one of the most popular Easter events near Manchester in April 2026. The farm’s annual Easter Egg Hunt returns with a range of challenges tailored to different age groups, ensuring that every child who takes part receives an Easter egg, with the added excitement of a hidden golden egg prize.
Alongside the Easter activities, visitors can enjoy everything the farm has to offer, including animal encounters, tractor rides and outdoor play areas. Located just outside Manchester, it provides a convenient escape from the city while still being easily accessible, making it a popular choice for families during the Easter break.
Manchester Duck Race
Friday 3rd April
Salford Quays
Taking place at Salford Quays, the Manchester Duck Race is a well-established family event in Manchester during Easter and a great option for Good Friday. The event centres around the duck race itself, where visitors can sponsor a duck and watch it race along the water for the chance to win prizes.
Beyond the race, the event features a range of activities including food stalls, fairground rides and live entertainment, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the day. Its location at Salford Quays, one of Greater Manchester’s most popular waterfront destinations, makes it an ideal setting for a day out, particularly for those living in or around the city.
Manchester Anime & Gaming Con
10th – 12th April
Sugden Sports Centre
One of the UK’s largest anime and gaming events in Manchester, this convention returns to the Sugden Sports Centre for a three-day event packed with activity. Bringing together fans of anime, gaming, comics and cosplay, the event features appearances from voice actors, live performances, competitions and interactive workshops.
Visitors can explore gaming zones featuring both the latest releases and retro classics, take part in tournaments and enjoy a wide range of entertainment throughout the weekend. With its central location, the event is easily accessible and highlights the diversity of events taking place across Manchester, catering to a wide range of interests and communities.
Russell Howard: Don’t Tell the Algorithm
3rd – 5th April 2026
Opera House Manchester
For those looking for comedy shows in Manchester this April, Russell Howard returns to the Opera House with his latest stand-up tour. Known for his energetic style and ability to blend humour with social commentary, Howard’s performances continue to attract audiences across the UK and beyond.
This tour focuses on creating a more immersive live experience, encouraging audiences to disconnect from distractions and engage fully with the performance. With its central location, the Opera House remains one of Manchester’s key venues for live entertainment, offering residents easy access to major touring acts and cultural events throughout the year.
With such a wide variety of events in Manchester in April 2026, the city continues to offer something for everyone, whether you’re interested in music, culture, food or family-friendly activities. For those living in Manchester, this accessibility to events and experiences is a key part of what makes the city such a desirable place to call home.