Comedy festivals, chicken wings and creative weekends

September: the season of change. The kids are heading back to school, the BBQ is going away for another year and you’re probably starting to dig out the big coat. So, what’s on in Manchester this September? From Manchester’s biggest comedy festival taking over Castlefield Bowl to intimate literary evenings, there’s something for everyone. 

Here’s our hand-picked guide to what’s on in Manchester this September.

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Join Jay Rayner for a greedy evening of literary conversation Jay Rayner

Jay Rayner – Nights Out At Home – LIVE

HOME

4 September 

Join Jay Rayner as he celebrates 25 years as The Observer’s award-winning restaurant critic with the publication of Nights Out At Home. With a star-studded virtual Q&A and the chance for you to ask your own questions, it’s the perfect evening for foodies.


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Throw some (mug-sized) shapes with Merseyway Workshop Merseyway Workshop

Four-Week Pottery Throwing Course

Merseyway Workshop

4 September

Always wanted your Ghost moment? For anyone too young to understand that reference, Merseyway Workshop have you covered. From learning to throw mugs to plates, you’ll be crafting hand-thrown dinnerware faster than you can say “Unchained Melody”. 


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Laughterama is back for 2024 Credit: Laughterama

Laughterama Comedy Festival

Castlefield Bowl 

4-8 September

Laughterama is back and this year’s line-up is looking to be the best one yet. Expect hilarious sets from Jon Richardson, Stewart Lee, Taskmaster star Phil Wang and task-champion Dara Ó Briain. Plus BAFTA nominee Simon Amstell. Oh, and we’d recommend that you skip the pre-show meal and instead opt for one of the street traders who will be taking over the venue. 



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Flat Days Society Credit: Unsplash

Flat Days Society - Surf Skate Club

Altogether Otherwise

5 September (+ every Thursday at 6 pm)

If you haven’t heard of surf skating, it’s basically a skateboard that gives you a bit more flexibility for street skating. Interested in learning more? Hobby House Altogether Otherwise has got you covered. Every Thursday they’re hosting a surf skate club for everyone from seasoned skaters to newbies. The best part? You don’t even need to bring your own board. 


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Join Coleen Nolan in Manchester for a live Q&A Credit: Loose Women

Coleen Nolan - Q&A - LIVE

The Rex Cinema

6 September

Loose Women fan? Join agony aunt, ex-popstar and broadcaster Coleen Nolan at Wilmslow’s heritage cinema, The Rex. Coleen will be answering your questions and discussing her brand-new book about loss, A Hand To Hold.


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Manchester United Legends are going head-to-head with Celtic Legends Copyright: imago/Colorsport Eric Cantona & Liam Miller compete

Manchester United Legends and Celtic Legends

Old Trafford 

7 September  

Following their last smash-hit match, Manchester United Legends are lacing up their boots and going head-to-head with Celtic Legends. Ex-United captain Bryan Robson will be serving as manager and Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt are playing. Plus all the proceeds go directly to the Manchester United Foundation, helping young people across Greater Manchester and beyond.



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Get It Hot at Gorilla Credit: Chappell Roan

Unofficial Chappell Roan Pink Pony Club Afterparty

Gorilla 

13 September 

While Chapell Roan’s Manchester gig has been sold out for months you can still Get It Hot at Gorilla. They’ll be playing her most iconic tunes and hosting a Chappell lip-sync competition. It’s a Femininomenon! 



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Join legendary DJ, Josh Wink for a late-night party Exhibition

Ex Oh! Presents Josh Wink

Exhibition

14 September 

Legendary DJ, Josh Wink, will be launching the first of Exhibition's regular DJ events. Join Josh, Eddie Leader (Hudd Traxx) and IVES as they deliver some serious tunes. Hosted at intimate late-night bar, Exhibition, get closer to the music with Ex Oh!


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Salt. Lime. Shot with Copita Mezcal and Tequila Festival Copita Mezcal and Tequila Festival

Copita Mezcal and Tequila Festival

Manchester Cathedral

14 September 

Salt. Lime. Shot. Following a sell-out event in Glasgow, the Copita Mezcal and Tequila Festival is coming to Manchester. With guided tastings and masterclasses led by industry experts and a team of expert bartenders on hand to stir up a selection of cocktails, it’s the perfect place to experience a taste of Mexico, without leaving the M60.


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Join the Portico Kitchen for a super-secret supper club The Portico Kitchen Secret Supper Club

The Portico Kitchen Secret Supper Club

The Portico

19 September 

Join the Portico Kitchen for a hyper-limited run of dinner services with their Secret Supper Club. Hosting only twelve diners, you’ll be served two courses prepared in-house and one small course featuring snacks, appetisers, confections, or desserts produced by the local eateries.


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To quote Taylor herself, Don’t threaten me with a good time. SWIFTOGEDDON

SWIFTOGEDDON

Escape to Freight Island

20 September

Throw on your friendship bracelets, dust off your Eras Tour outfit and get ready to sob your way through All Too Well (10 Minute Version). SWIFTOGEDDON is a Swiftie fan-run night of deep cuts, extended mixes, fan favourites and all the hits. To quote Taylor herself; Don’t threaten me with a good time. 


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Dig into Wing Fest Manchester Wing Festival

Manchester Wing Festival

Victoria Baths

20 September 

Have you ever had the BEST chicken wings? Not yet you haven’t. Dig into Wing Fest, the world’s largest chicken wing festival. Your ticket includes live music, a handful of DJ sets, axe throwing and, of course, wing-eating competitions. 


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Get ready for Góbéfest Góbéfest

Góbéfest 2024

20-22 September

Cathedral Gardens

Starting in 2017, Góbéfest began as a way to celebrate the little-known culture and traditions of the Szekler people – a group of ethnic Hungarians living in Transylvania. Since then, Góbéfest has grown to showcase the practices and folklores of other cultures from across Europe and beyond. With live music, local crafting and plenty of stalls to explore, it’s well worth a visit.


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Dance like Ariana at GFFDamian Dance Studio Image: SOS Rea

Strut into Serenity dance and yoga workshop

22 September

GFF Damian Dance Studio

Head to this dance studio near Victoria Station for a special two-part workshop that'll set you up right for the week ahead. Strut your way through a routine to Ariana Grande's 'Dangerous Woman' with SOS Manchester's Rea, then enjoy a gentle yoga flow with instructor Emily Sollis.


Want to loop us in on the best things happening this month? Email Charleym@confidentials.com


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