CitySuites Blog
From unique things to do, to exclusive events at CitySuites, find the best Manchester has to offer on our blog.
May is arriving soon - and it's an especially exciting month as England's been blessed with an extra bank holiday with the King's Coronation on the 29th of May!
With all these events happening, it's understandable that families are already planning their well-deserved break. Three exhilarating bank holidays are expected in May, which means more options to spend time with the family.
As big fans of Manchester's landscape of events and experiences, we've decided to create a post that outlines the best things to do for families in the city this month.
May's Bank Holiday Dates
Expect the 1st, 8th and 29th of May off if you're living in the UK, meaning there are three 3-day weekends to experience.
If lucky, we could also be graced with some sunshine - but don't let a cloudy or rainy day ruin your plans. We think there are still lots to do indoors while you watch the serene rain pour down on the city.
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If you're taking your family with you, why not enhance your stay with CitySuites' two-bedroom or family apartments? Available in both CitySuites I and CitySuitesII
Events During May's Bank Holidays
We've selected the most unique and interesting events and experiences available during May's Bank Holidays this year.
1st May Bank Holiday Events For Families
The month starts strong with a bank holiday right off the bat! If you're in Manchester during the bank holiday weekend on the 1st of May, consider the following events.
Goldilocks & The Three Bears
30th April 2023 - 14:00 to 16:00
KD Theatre Productions and Harlow Playhouse are attending their brand new theatre production "Goldilocks and the Three Bears".
This hilarious, magnificent Pantomime style theatre showcases fun-filled theatrics, equipped with colourful characters from the original Goldilocks story, and an unforgettable performance that utilises circus and speciality acts.
KD Theatre Productions is known for its high-energy choreography, loveable cast and even an opportunity for the audience to meet the characters after their show. Book your tickets and experience the best that the theatre has to offer this May bank holiday!
Steaming Days at Bolton Steam Museum
30th April to 1st May 2023 - 10:00 to 16:00
This experience will have you look at restored stationary steam engines which, back in history, powered old cotton and woollen mills in Northern England. Take a trip back in time and witness some of the old machinery used in modern times back in the day.
The museum showcases unique engines that are one of their kind to survive anywhere in the world - with the oldest being 180 years old.
There are also activities for children to do, including an activity sheet and hot and cold drinks available at their Engine View Cafe. Entry is free, so book your tickets this bank holiday!
Greater Manchester Walking Festival
1st to 30th May 2023 - 09:00 to 18:00
Want a family-friendly way of exploring the city with your loved ones? Greater Manchester's Walking Festival is the best experience to look forward to.
Back for the fifth year in a row, the event welcomes roamers, marchers, strollers and other people looking to explore Manchester on foot - although, you can always opt for checking out Greater Manchester's best scenic walks or spots instead!
The festival offers 400 guided walks that explore Manchester's popular and hidden villages and towns. Take a look at Manchester's historic areas, or if you're a local, rediscover the story with the festival's themed walks. Join a walking group or check out the walking routes today.
1st May - 5th May Mid-Week Events
1st to 6th May 2023 - Varying times
Sucker Punch
Join Leon and Troy in "Sucker Punch", a play by leading British dramatist - Roy Williams.
The theatre follows Leon and Troy and their passion for boxing growing up. The tension soon builds when Leon and Becky (Charlie's daughter) hides an interesting secret in a ruthless world.
The show displays fantastic themes, exploring the life of being young and black in the 80s. Both an entertaining and educational play to watch - get your tickets today!
Michael Rosen's Unexpected Twist
2nd to 7th May 2023 - Varying times
Take part in the re-telling of Charles Dickens' classic story of Oliver Twist - displayed by world-renowned children's author, Michel Rosen. The play combines two stories in one neatly-packaged play, following Rosen's story and Oliver Twist's story that inspired it.
The premise goes like this: Shona and her class are studying the book, Oliver Twist - but the two characters are actually a reflection of each other. When she's given a new phone by an unusual character, she begins to suspect there's something unusual about the new boys she met.
The production offers a thrilling story by The Children's Theatre Partnership, with original music by rising R&B star Yaya Bey and BAC Beatbox Academy's Conrad Murray. Book your tickets for Unexpected Twist today.
Candlelight: Hans Zimmer's Best Works
5th May 2023 - 18:00 to 20:30
Take a trip to an atmospheric string concert accompanied by dazzling candlelights.
Candlelight: Hans Zimmer's Best Works, is a concert produced to bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations.
Experience the classics of Hans Zimmer in classical form, including Interstellar, Angels and Demons and Jack Sparrow. The concert is played by String Infusion, a string quartet whose experience validates the popularity of this upcoming event. Check their available tickets today.
8th May Bank Holiday Events
Alfie's First Fight
7th May 2023 - 10:30 to 14:00
A family-friendly feature, Alfie's First Fight is about an inspiring boy-hero and his experiences growing up with an amateur boxer father.
The play features intense boxing action, fun plot twists and a compelling narrative that's sure to pack a punch. It handles various themes - about love, loss, family, and desire, subjects that are often missed on boxing-related shows!
Learn more about this event or book your tickets before the bank holiday.
Top Secret: The Magic Of Science
6th May 2023 - 19:30
Take part in the mysterious, thrilling magic show in Oldham - The Magic Of Science: Top Secret!
Be amazed as you watch the mystery of magic become infused with the complexities of science. With non-stop, action-packed science experiments that mimic magic trick, Top Secret will capture the imagination.
Book your tickets for this magical event, and watch as the show inspires and educates upcoming magicians and scientists in the audience. Let the show give you a fun and exciting way to spend your Friday!
9th May to 12th May Mid-week Events
The King And I
9th to 13th May 2023 - Varying times
The King and I is a multi-award-winning production on Broadway by Rodgers and Hammerstein. With one of the most memorable scores written (such as Shall We Dance and Whistle a Happy Tune), this Broadway is a standout hit for anyone coming to Manchester for theatre breaks.
If you want to know more about the theatre shows in Manchester, there are also great musicals to watch this year in the city!
Visit their page, and book The King And I today.
An Evening Of Magic (Richard Jones)
11th May 2023 - 19:30 to 21:30
This month is full of magic - almost literally.
An Evening Of Magic is being hosted by Richard Jones, one of the magicians to win Britain's Got Talent back in 2016. Richard Jones is known as the "military" illusionist, using expert knowledge of deception to create a unique experience that people often remember years after the show - even us, we're talking about Richard Jones after his Britain's Got Talent win!
Come get your tickets here and enjoy the show.
Andre Rieu
12th May 2023 - 19:30
Dutch violinist superstar Andre Rieu is set to play a performance this 12th of May.
Andre has brought the magic of classical music to an international level, with his recent successful tour back in 2022, it's obvious that his presence has built a large gathering.
The demand for his work has steadily increased and with good reason. Andre Rieu is not just entertainment, he's an exceptional must-see musician - so don't miss out on this event, it could be a while until Andre comes back to Manchester!
29th May Bank Holiday Events For Families
Bolton Comic Con 2023
27th May 2023 -10:00 to 16:00
Comic-Con is coming to Bolton! And it's a great chance to meet some of your favourite TV stars, take photos with pop culture's best props, and cosplay competitions.
Comic-Con is always a big hit when it comes to comics, comic art, animated series and pop culture movies (think Marvel and DC). Of course, it's more than just comics.
Comic-Con is also a great way to meet others who enjoy the same topic. You'll be met with cosplayers, merchants and enthusiasts who share the same excitement. It's a great family day out, so why not take a look at tickets this coming bank holiday?
Festival on the Fairway, Family Fun Day
28th May 2023 - 14:00 to 22:00
If you're thinking of outdoor events to book, then take a look at Festival on the Fairway.
We've talked about this in previous posts, but that should speak volumes on how in-demand this event is. Davyhulme Park Golf Club presents a bright festival for families this coming May bank holiday on the 28th.
The day is filled with great attractions - live music from local artists, great food and drinks, entertainment to suit all ages and stalls from local businesses to provide high-quality goods and products. If you like, bring a picnic blanket, chairs and table to get the full outdoor experience.
Lou Lou's Manchester Vintage Market
29th May 2023 - 10:00 to 16:00
Fashionistas and enthusiasts can get excited about Lou Lou's Manchester Vintage Market coming this 29th May.
This vintage fair has been a favourite since its last event - browse through various vintage wears: including accessories, clothing and jewellery. Expect beautifully-made products from the 1940s to 1980s which are sourced by independent traders.
If you're into fashion and its history, you can't go wrong with an event like this. Check out their ticket types and book yours today.
Other Events In May Families Can Look Forward To
15th to 21st May
Walkies at Bridgewater
15th May 2023 - 16:00 to 19:00
Fancy a walk with your dog? If you bring your dog to RHS Garden Bridgewater in mid-May, you can join a walking group and participate in a special walkies evening.
Enjoy a stroll around the gardens and allow you and your canine friend to fully experience the area from 4 pm to 7 pm. Bond with your dog, take in the view, and explore the horticultural delights of the season.
We all know dogs are family, so why not treat them to an exciting stroll with this event? Tickets must be booked in advanced, so get yours today.
The Spongebob Musical
16th to 20th May - Varying times
We all know and love Spongebob and his undersea friends. This coming May, Palace Theatre is hosting The Spongebob Musical - so join the whacky and loveable character under the sea and sing along in the brilliantly bright musical production at the Palace Theatre.
The musical will tell a fairly compelling, but fun narrative - like one episode in theatre form - that's sure to keep families entertained for the whole show. Not your style? Luckily Manchester has lots of things you can do with your children!
The show will also feature lots of fantastic scores, complete with energetic choreography that are both fun to watch and complement the songs. Get your tickets and witness the amazing show this coming May.
Phil Wang: Wang in There, Baby!
21st May 2023 - Varying times
Phil Wang is coming on the 21st of May to The Lowry!
The beloved comedian as seen on 8 out of 10 Cats and his critically-acclaimed Netflix special "Hot Off The Heels" is bringing a fantastic new stand-up show in May, with a tour nationwide already in place.
Watch as he talks about not-so-PG topics and other subjects happening in his life. Book your tickets today.
Manchester's Guitar Festival
19th to 21st May - Varying times
Interested in guitars? This year, the second Manchester Guitar Festival on the 19th and 21st of May, 2023.
The festival will have tonnes of events and happenings that cater to guitar fans - including concerts, workshops, masterclasses, and more.
Headline performances are expected to play at The Stoller Hall, with other performances that will inspire all guests visiting the festival. Opportunities to try out the world of Chetham's as part of the Chetham's Guitar Academy Day will also be in the festival!
Check out all headliners, and book your visit today.
