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Here's your monthly guide from The Union on free events in and around Manchester this May.
Where? - Starting at Band on the Wall, Swan Street
When? - 11:30 until 13:15 on Sunday 1 May
There’s a high chance that when you graduate from being a Manchester student and leave your accommodation, you’ll graduate to a being a fresh new face in the millennial suburb of Ancoats.
Ancoats wasn’t always the young, desirable place to be that it is now, though. It was once the cradle of the industrial revolution, and those lovely new apartment blocks were once some of the oldest working mills in the country.
If you’re interested, book a ticket online, and learn more about the area’s wealth of British culture. You’ll explore places such as the world’s first aircraft manufactory, the public hall where Newton Heath became Manchester United, and the old Daily Express Building.
Photo source: Benjamin Shaw
Where? - Greengate Square, Victoria Bridge Street, Salford
When? - 10:30 until 16:00 on Saturday 7 May
The Salford Vegan Market will be taking over Greengate Square in Salford for the very first time this May.
There’s not much that won’t be on offer at the stalls, including street food, artisan bakers, craft brewers, soapers, local artists and loads more.
If you’re vegan, or even if you’re not, and fancy bagging yourself a sustainable steal – get yourself involved. Tickets can be booked online in advance, too.
Where? - Starting at Salford Quays Metrolink Stop, Trafford Road
When? - 14:30 until 16:15 on Saturday 7 May
Like Ancoats, Salford Quays has also got a vast history, and wasn’t always the shiny, new mini city we know today.
The quays used to be home to the 4th largest port in the country and the docks once harboured worldwide ocean-liners.
If you like the sound of exploring our new city on the old canal, and switching from the hi-tech times we live in now, to the old, industrial days – book your ticket online.
Where? - Stage and Radio, Northern Quarter
When? - 18:30 until 23:00, starting on Thursday 5 May, then every Thursday
Get yourself over to Centre Stage every Thursday for an Open Mic Night, full of top-class entertainment.
Like always, you won’t be expected to get up and perform, unless you want to – and if you do you want to, there’ll be a free pint in it for you, as well.
All types of performers are welcome. So, get involved, or sit back and enjoy the show.
Tickets are free but should be booked online in advance.
Where? - Arc Centre, Hat Works, Wellington Road South, Stockport
When? - 10:30 until 12:30 on Thursday 19 May
We all know how important it is to take care of our mental health and wellbeing – and what better way to do this than doing something you enjoy or exploring a new hobby at the same time.
Whether you’re an expert, a budding photographer, or never taken a photo in your life, come along and learn about the wellbeing benefits and experiences of photography.
If you enjoy the sessions, they’ll be running monthly, with a new topic each time for you to explore and discuss whilst capturing your surroundings in the heart of Stockport.
Sessions are on for a group of 15 people at a time, and tickets must be booked in advance.
Photo source: Virojt Changyencham, Getty Images
As always, there's a whole lot going on at The Union. Check out the events listing and see what you fancy.