• Poetry Encounters: Claudia Masin

    Henry Watson Music Library

    A bilingual poetry reading and conversation exploring poetic craft, creative vision, and the nuances of poetry translation. The Instituto Cervantes in Manchester invites you to the second session of its “Poetry Encounters” programme, this time featuring a discussion between Argentinian poet Claudia Masin and author and academic Charlotte Shevchenko Knight. Poetry Encounters was created with the aim of promoting […]

  • Causing Trouble: A Queer Up North Panel Event

    Join Manchester Histories and Queer Up North for a panel discussion exploring what today’s queer cultural spaces can learn from Queer Up North, cultural activism and the radical past. Looking back at the festival in the context of the AIDS crisis, Section 28 and wider movements for LGBTQ+ rights, the conversation asks what should be […]

  • Talk: Schinkel in Manchester 1826-2026

    Performance Space

    An evening with staff of the Manchester School of Architecture celebrating the 1826 visit to  Manchester of the Prussian architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel which will include discussion of the making of architectural models of buildings in Manchester and Berlin, an exploration of the influence of his visit and an opportunity to play Schinkel Bingo. Free - […]

  • LEGO Club

    Lower Ground Floor

    Do you love Lego? So do we! Drop in, pick your favourite bricks and build anything that takes your fancy. From castles to spaceships, the possibilities are endless! No need to book in advance. First come first served. Suitable for ages 4 and above. Free – just drop in. Please make a donation to support […]

  • Fun Palaces

    Performance Space

    Get ready to celebrate Fun Palaces weekend at Central Library with a whole afternoon dedicated to the Mid-Autumn Festival, one of the most important festivals in the Chinese calendar! Join us for an afternoon of traditional Chinese music, interactive workshops and lantern-making with Manchester Confucius Institute, Chinese Music Classroom at Chetham’s School of Music and more. Programme: […]

  • Cancelled: Classical Concert with Joseph Myer + Cristo Harijan

    ** CANCELLED ** Due to unforeseen circumstances, this event has been cancelled. We apologise for any inconvenience caused. ****** Joseph Dawson and Cristo Harijan present: an afternoon of European Folk Suites Joseph Dawson and Cristo Harijan would like to welcome you to an afternoon of folk-inspired suites for cello and piano from some of Europe's […]

  • Civic Week Centenary 1926-2026

    Performance Space

    Celebrate the 100th anniversary of Manchester’s Civic Week with a spectacular showcase of the best of our city’s heritage as industrial powerhouse and modern icon of global communities! Discover the History of Civic Week 1926 - 2026  Archives Exhibition (Ground Floor) 125 years of Manchester Tramways exhibition - explore the history of Manchester's electric tramways […]

  • Play: The ReUnion

    Henry Watson Music Library

    The ReUnion is a powerful live performance celebrating the Cultural Heritage, Music and Memories of the cast consisting of women of African/Caribbean descent who are honoured to be 'Embracing Their Next Chapter' and incorporating their lived experiences. It explores identity, belonging, resilience and joy all whilst acknowledging the realities of racism in everyday life and […]

  • Talk English Circles

    Recurring
    Lower Ground Floor

    Come along to Talk English Circles at Manchester Central Library to practise speaking English and meet other people. Learn English, build skills and step into ESOL with this programme funded by Economic Activity Trailblazer and Manchester Adult Education. Open to all levels. Free - book your free place here or click 'Book Now' below Please […]

  • Vinyl DJ Workshop

    Henry Watson Music Library

    Take to the decks and learn to DJ this November! Come down to the Henry Watson Music Library for our latest relaxed, beginner‑friendly Vinyl DJ workshop.  Led by vinyl DJ and host Maimuna (DJ MuMu), this session is all about connection, creativity, and enjoying music together in a friendly, social setting. You’ll learn the basics of […]

  • Can’t Get You Out Of My Head: In Search of Kylie – Michael Cragg in conversation

    Performance Space

    Kylie Minogue is one of the world's most successful pop stars, and in his new book, Can't Get You Out of My Head, music journalist Michael Cragg takes us on a hugely entertaining journey from her early days on Ramsey Street to her current status as global icon. We're thrilled to be welcoming Michael to Manchester […]