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Bank holidays are coming in May, and we're ready to give our list of the best events happening during this month.
With two long weekends in May, Manchester is packed with fantastic Bank Holiday events. Whether you're into live music, food, culture, or family fun, there’s plenty to enjoy.
Here are some top picks happening across both weekends. Be sure to book early and check local travel updates.
Read on to make the most of your May bank holiday in Manchester.
When Are The May Bank Holidays In 2025?
There are two Bank Holidays in May 2025:
Early May Bank Holiday: Monday, 5th May 2025
Spring Bank Holiday: Monday, 26th May 2025
These long weekends are the perfect opportunity to explore all that Manchester has to offer. From live music and street food to family-friendly activities and late-night parties.
May Bank Holiday Events (3rd–5th May 2025)
Taco Fest at GRUB
🗓 4th–5th May | 📍 GRUB, 50 Red Bank
Celebrate all things taco at GRUB’s well-loved street food hub. With traditional Mexican flavours and inventive fusion options, expect a colourful variety of tacos to sample. Enjoy a lively setting with DJs, craft drinks and vegetarian and vegan offerings.
Alabama 3
🗓 5th May | 📍 Manchester Academy
Alabama 3 bring their unique blend of country, blues and electronic music to Manchester. Known for the track "Woke Up This Morning" featured in The Sopranos, their live performances deliver raw energy and a distinctive sound.
Reggaeton Party Bank Holiday Special
🗓 4th–5th May | 📍 The Deaf Institute
Bring the rhythm of Latin America to your weekend with this Reggaeton Party special. Expect upbeat reggaeton tracks, live DJs and an energetic crowd dancing late into the evening.
Skipinnish
🗓 5th May | 📍 The Lowry, Salford Quays
Enjoy an evening of traditional Celtic music with one of Scotland’s finest folk bands. Skipinnish offers a blend of heartfelt lyrics, powerful melodies and lively rhythms that will transport you to the Highlands.
Lilyisthatyou
🗓 5th May | 📍 YES, 38 Charles Street
Catch Canadian alt-pop artist Lilyisthatyou at this intimate venue. Known for bold lyrics and catchy melodies, her live show delivers high-energy performances that showcase her rising star status.
Manchester Dance Congress
🗓 2nd–5th May | 📍 Billingtons, Oldham
Get moving with workshops in Latin, ballroom and freestyle styles. This popular dance congress features professional instructors, social events and show-stopping performances over four days.
Spring Bank Holiday Events (23rd–26th May 2025)
Tyler the Creator
🗓 26th–27th May | 📍 Co-op Live
One of music’s most creative performers, Tyler the Creator, brings his genre-blending set to Co-op Live. Expect bold visuals, engaging stagecraft and an unforgettable show.
Inhaler
🗓 26th May | 📍 O2 Apollo
Catch Irish rock band Inhaler, fronted by Elijah Hewson, live in Manchester. Their setlist includes high-energy tracks and emotional lyrics that have earned them an international fanbase.
CELEBRATE LYF Afro Latin Dance Festival
🗓 23rd–26th May | 📍 Britannia Sachas Hotel
A celebration of dance with Afro Latin roots, this festival features workshops, social dancing and vibrant themed events. Learn styles such as Salsa, Bachata and Kizomba in an inclusive, welcoming setting.
Venus Manchester (Bank Holiday Special)
🗓 25th–26th May | 📍 Joshua Brooks
Venus, one of the city's favourite club nights, returns with a Bank Holiday edition. Enjoy a blend of house and techno from top DJs and dance late into the night with Manchester’s loyal nightlife crowd.
Asian Dub Foundation
🗓 26th May | 📍 O2 Apollo
Known for their fusion of punk, dub and electronica with politically charged lyrics, Asian Dub Foundation promises a powerful and memorable live show.
Justin Moorhouse
🗓 25th–26th May | 📍 Octagon Theatre, Bolton
Enjoy a night of laughs with comedian Justin Moorhouse. His sharp Northern wit and relatable stories make for an evening of brilliant stand-up.
Raver Tots
🗓 26th May | 📍 Freight Island
Perfect for families, Raver Tots combines a festival atmosphere with a safe environment for children. Expect child-friendly music, bubbles, confetti and colourful entertainment.
May Bank Holiday Events in Manchester
The May Bank Holidays in Manchester highlight a variety of events to suit all tastes in 2025, promising enjoyable weeks and weekends throughout the month. Music, festivals, classes and museums are among the few things you can enjoy during May's bank holidays, and it doesn't stop there!
Beyond the month lies an endless list of fun events that's suited for everybody.
Whether you're looking to create a week-itinerary for your family's outing at summer, or you're simply planning a weekend in Manchester, the city's lineup of events will have something you're looking for.
CitySuites is a luxury aparthotel in the heart of Manchester. If you're looking for a unique stay in the city, we have apartments available, from luxury studios to lavish family rooms.
