Best Manchester Events In January 2026

If you're searching for outdoor events in Manchester this January, look no further than a trip around the city's best sights, completing a fun treasure hunt as you go. From puzzles to riddles and the prize of 20% off at a local pub, you can't go wrong with this group day out.

When the sun sets, Manchester's music scene comes alive - and there's no better way to dive in than with an evening of live music at O'Neills. From intimate acoustic sets to foot-stomping gigs that'll have you dancing all night, these events showcase the city's electric energy and diverse talent.

Whether it's soulful jazz, indie anthems, or even an unexpected open mic gem, there's something for every music lover to enjoy. Pair it all with a craft beer, cocktail, or your drink of choice, and you've got yourself a recipe for the perfect night out.

Unleash your inner Van Gogh at a delightful Paint and Sip night with Paintvine in the heart of Manchester at Revolution or Grub. No experience necessary - just bring your creativity, and they'll provide the rest. Not big on paints? Give the Sculpt and Sip night a go and craft pinch pots, candle holders, and dishes to take home.

January blues ain't no thing here, as Flight Club make sure your group nights out stay hella fun. Join the cool darts space for weekend afternoons that include bottomless pizza, a bottle of prosecco and a bash at their state-of-the-art darts experience.

This January, PizzaLuxe in Manchester is serving a slice of the good life with an offer that's tough to top. For just £34.95 per person, you can indulge in bottomless pizza, dough balls, and drinks for 90 minutes.

Grab some pals and get ready to crust the night away with Roman-style thin-crust pizzas, Italian spritzes, and draught beers. Who kneads more?

Looking for January events in Manchester today? Take a look at what's happening at GRUB, where this month has winter beer festivals, wellbeing days, quiz nights and more in store across a roster of affordable things to do. 

From 13th January, Magic At The Midland brings you a 75-minute evening filled with laughter, wonder and whimsy courtesy of the UK's best magic man, Steve Price. Watch in awe as he turns everyday objects into wondrous memories, leaving you spellbound and questioning the impossible. No breaks, just pure magic.

A classic Spinningfields party venue, The Hip Hop Orchestra Brunch at The Blues Kitchen Manchester is a palace of musical goodness banging out tunes from both DJs and a live orchestra while you dine and sip bottomless drinks. Plus, expect all your favourite hip hop, afro-beats and R&B gems with free Friday club nights.

Shake things up with a cocktail masterclass at Three Little Words, Manchester's stylish sanctuary for gin lovers and cocktail connoisseurs. Nestled in the city centre, this chic bar is famed for its creative concoctions and cool, industrial vibe, making it the perfect spot to stir up some magic.

Led by their expert mixologists, this hands-on class takes you behind the bar to learn the tricks of the trade. From nailing the perfect shake to mastering the art of garnish flair, you'll create (and taste) three bespoke cocktails tailored to your taste buds. Fancy a classic martini or something a little more daring? The choice is yours, and every sip is a triumph.

Hidden away in the heart of Manchester is immersive prison experience Alcotraz, offering the chance for you to smuggle liquor into a themed speakeasy. Your reward? Bespoke cocktails whipped up by master mixologists and being thrown into the heart of a dramatic story.

Get ready to laugh your socks off at The Comedy Store, hosted in the buzzing atmosphere of Manchester Bierkeller. This isn't just any night out - it's a side-splitting showcase of stand-up stars and up-and-coming comedic talent, guaranteed to leave you in stitches.

With a lineup featuring sharp-witted performers and masterful storytellers, every show is packed with punchlines and moments that'll have you crying with laughter. The Bierkeller's lively, laid-back vibe adds to the charm, making it the perfect spot to unwind, enjoy a pint, and let the good times roll.

After things to do in Manchester this January 2026? YO! have you covered with their sushi-making sessions at the Arndale. Expect to be guided through the process of making a number of different items, from salmon sashimi to a crunchy Cali roll.

The weather getting you down? Bundle up in the city's cosy winter restaurants. From sky-high pergolas above the city to charming pubs that are filled with cosy nooks and high-end eateries boasting sublime seasonal menus, these are sure to lift those January blues.

Make your brunch game stronger than ever at the lush and plush On The Hush, the most Instagrammable restaurant hot-spot in Manchester city centre. Starting at £35.95, their award-winning bottomless brunch is available from Thursday to Sunday with a menu that covers everything from chicken waffles to Turkish eggs and bacon blueberry pancakes.

Step into the vibrant world of Albert's Schloss, the Bavarian-inspired gem in the heart of Spinningfields. This isn't just a restaurant; it's a living, breathing celebration of indulgence, revelry, and downright good times. With its roaring fires, Alpine-inspired interiors, and a bier hall vibe that feels like Oktoberfest every day, this place knows how to bring the party.

By day, it's a foodie haven serving up hearty plates of Alpine cuisine with a Mancunian twist. By night, it cranks up the energy with live entertainment that'll have you dancing on tables (or at least tapping your toes). From cabaret and DJs to bands and eclectic performers, every visit feels like a show-stopping adventure.

Ready, steady, bake. The Big Manchester Bake is the ultimate test of your kitchen skills. Situated in a fabulously fun marquee in the heart of Manchester, this isn't your average kitchen - it's a baking showdown like no other. Whether you're a seasoned pro or someone whose baking expertise starts and ends with boxed brownies, this experience is all about rolling up your sleeves and having a laugh.

In just 90 minutes, you'll be whisking, folding, and decorating your way to culinary glory (or glorious chaos). With step-by-step guidance, top-notch ingredients, and all the tools you need, the pressure is on to impress your friends, teammates, or maybe even yourself with your baking prowess.

To get behind the scenes access to the city's best microbreweries? This tour is just the ticket for lovers of beer. Not only will you get to spy some industry secrets, but samples await for you to sip at each destination.

Calling all film buffs and lovers of the unconventional - IndieFlicks Monthly Film Festival is your ticket to discovering the freshest voices in cinema. Hosted in Manchester, this dynamic event showcases a curated selection of short films from around the globe, celebrating creativity, diversity, and bold storytelling.

Settle in as you're treated to a cinematic smorgasbord, from thought-provoking dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies and everything in between. The best part? You get to play critic for the night, voting for your favourite film and joining the conversation with fellow cinephiles.

When you're craving a little heat, venture on over to one of Fabulous Brunch's events. From themed bottomless brunches with stunning drag performances to raucous daytime parties featuring waiters in the buff, these are sure to spice up your winter schedule.

Ready to level up your brunch game? The Electric Shuffle Brunch is here to deliver bottomless drinks, delicious bites, and a healthy dose of competition—all set in the sleek and lively surrounds of Electric Shuffle Manchester.

Your two-hour session kicks off with a tantalizing selection of small plates and free-flowing prosecco, beer, or mimosas to fuel the fun. Then it's time to grab your crew and hit the shuffleboard tables, where high-energy gameplay meets friendly rivalries. 

What's on in Manchester this January doesn't get any tastier than Cherry Jam's bottomless afternoon teas, supper clubs and grazing boards, which come complete with free-flowing drinks. Better yet, they're fronting a non-boozy version with mocktails for all of you cutting back.

Taking part in Dry January this year? We've rounded up all the best things to do in Manchester if you don't drink, from online happenings to sporting activities and unmissable tasting menus. Get your fix of alcohol-free fun with these unique experiences.