Whats On In May In Manchester For Kids and Families
Looking for things to do in May in Manchester with kids?
May is a gorgeous month for family adventures in Manchester. With warmer days, longer evenings and the first real taste of summer, it’s the perfect time to get out and explore together.
This guide rounds up the best family-friendly events happening across Manchester in May, from creative workshops and exhibitions to outdoor trails, farm fun and live shows. Each listing includes helpful details like dates, locations and age suitability to make planning easy.
May includes a school half-term, which means even more is happening for families. We’ve created a dedicated Half Term guide with a full day-by-day round-up of holiday activities, so if you’re planning full days out, that’s the best place to start.
Below you’ll find our hand-picked May highlights – perfect for weekends, spontaneous days out and discovering something new.
May Half Term in Manchester
Friday 22nd to Sunday 31st May 2026
Our May Half Term Guide is packed with brilliant things to do with kids across Greater Manchester, from theatre shows and creative workshops to outdoor adventures and special one-off events.
Whether you’re planning days out in advance or need last-minute inspiration, you’ll find loads of family-friendly ideas to help you make the most of the holiday.
Discover everything happening >>> Things To Do May Half Term In Manchester
Manchester Flower Festival, Manchester City Centre
Saturday 23rd to Monday 25th May 2026
Celebrate the start of summer at the Manchester Flower Festival, a vibrant city-wide floral spectacle filling streets, squares and hidden corners across Manchester city centre with stunning floral displays, colourful pop-up gardens and family-friendly activities.
Follow the floral trail through locations like Exchange Square, St Ann’s Square and New Cathedral Street, enjoy creative workshops, outdoor dining and live entertainment, and take part in trails, bee-spotting fun and gardening activities that make this free festival a beautiful day out for visitors of all ages.
Free to attend. A brilliant choice for families, teens and anyone who loves flowers, art and outdoor fun.
More >>> Manchester Flower Festival 2026
Indoor Things To Do This May In Manchester
While May often brings sunshine, it’s still handy to have a list of great indoor things to do with the kids. Whether you’re dodging a rainy day, planning a relaxed family outing, or just fancy something a little calmer, Manchester is full of brilliant indoor activities this month.
From hands-on exhibitions and creative workshops to play spaces and family attractions, these indoor events are perfect for keeping little ones entertained whatever the weather brings.
Adventures In Wonderland, Z-Arts
Various Dates in May
Step into Alice’s shoes and have your very own magical Adventure in Wonderland!
Children and families can enjoy an enchanting play experience as they explore Wonderland, using imagination to create their own fantastical adventure.
Follow the White Rabbit into scenes from the beloved book – splash into the pool of tears, make friends with the Cheshire Cat, have tea as the Mad Hatter, play croquet with flamingos, get lost in a card maze, and wake up back on the riverbank, just in time for tea.
Tickets cost £12.00 plus a booking fee.
To book >>> Adventures In Wonderland, Z-Arts
Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos, Science and Industry Museum
Until Sunday 3rd January 2027
Blast off into space this May at the Science and Industry Museum’s brand-new Horrible Science exhibition. Inspired by the hit BBC series and bestselling books, this interactive family experience takes visitors on a cosmic adventure through the Solar System, packed with experiments, challenges and plenty of gross-out fun.
Families can explore alien worlds, test their balance on a moonquake, programme a rover, discover what astronauts eat in space and even see a real space toilet used on the Soyuz-Mir spacecraft. There are hands-on activities throughout, plus plenty of silly science surprises from the mischievous Dr Big Brain.
Tickets from £10, with family discounts available and under 3s free. Suitable for families and science-loving kids.
To book >>> Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos
Head, Shoulders, Knees & Goals, National Football Museum
Friday 27th March to Sunday 1st November 2026
Discover the fascinating connection between football and the human body at the National Football Museum’s brand-new interactive exhibition, Head, Shoulders, Knees & Goals. Families can explore the science behind movement, exercise, nutrition and matchday experiences through hands-on activities, sensory play and football-inspired challenges.
Packed with interactive exhibits and playful experiences, the exhibition encourages children to learn through movement and discover how football impacts both players and fans on and off the pitch.
Included with museum admission. Suitable for families and football-loving kids.
To book >>> Head, Shoulders, Knees & Goals
Planetarium Go! Manchester, Exchange Square
Friday 1st May – Saturday 23rd May 2026
Step inside a giant immersive dome at Planetarium Go! Manchester and journey through space in a spectacular 360° cinematic experience. Families can enjoy interactive astronomy shows, space adventures and educational films exploring the Solar System, galaxies and beyond — all projected around you for a truly immersive experience.
Shows include Exploring the Solar System, 3-2-1 Lift Off, Beyond the Sun and From Earth to Universe, making it a brilliant day out for curious kids and budding astronauts.
Tickets from £15, with family packages available and under 4s free. Suitable for all ages.
To book >>> Planetarium Go! Manchester
Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Manchester
Monday 11th May – Sunday 14th June 2026
Step into the world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Manchester in this special interactive event inspired by the hugely popular Nintendo game. Families can explore themed ‘Sea Life Islands’, collect character stamps, discover fascinating sea creatures and meet fan favourites including Tom Nook and Isabelle.
Along the way, visitors can take part in a fossil dig, search for Gulliver and enjoy plenty of photo opportunities while exploring the aquarium. The event is included with standard SEA LIFE admission and is perfect for Animal Crossing fans of all ages.
Tickets from £16 online, under 2s free. Suitable for all ages.
To book >>> Animal Crossing: New Horizons at SEA LIFE Manchester
Slides, Inflatables and Fun Swimming Sessions at Tameside Pools
Weekends Throughout May
A trip to the swimming pool makes a great treat, and Tameside pools have some extra fun in store.
Kids and adults alike can enjoy fun sessions with toys, inflatable and even slides at their Swim, Slides and Waves at Hyde Leisure.
Times and More >>> Slides, Inflatables and Fun Swimming Sessions at Tameside Pools
May Outdoor Events In Manchester
May is made for getting outside. With longer days, warmer weather and parks bursting into life, it’s a wonderful time to enjoy outdoor adventures with the kids.
From seasonal trails and farm visits to open-air events and nature activities, these outdoor ideas are perfect for stretching legs, burning off energy and making the most of spring in Manchester.
The Wind in the Willows Trail, RHS Garden Bridgewater
To 31st December 2026
For a great day out you can enjoy a nature-filled family day out at RHS Garden Bridgewater with The Wind in the Willows Trail! Explore the beautiful gardens and follow a hands-on adventure inspired by the beloved story of Mole, Ratty, Badger and Toad.
Young visitors can enjoy themed activities, discover hidden creatures along the garden paths, and take part in creative tasks as they wander through the stunning outdoor spaces together. It’s a lovely mix of story, exploration and green-space fun for families.
Garden admission applies; tickets for adults and children are available. A great choice for families and younger visitors.
To book >>> The Wind in the Willows Trail, RHS Garden Bridgewater
Lamb Feeding at Lancaster Park Farm
1st April to 30th June 2026
Lancaster Park Farm’s lambs are on the way, and they are giving you the chance to feed them throughout May.
The event will run at different times depending on the lamb’s development.
Plus, they will have all the usual fun of the farm, including meeting their animals, bathing their giant tortoise, riding the caterpillar barrel, driving a mini quad and the Pirate Shootout.
Entry tickets cost £8.50 for adults, £8.50 for children and babies under 12 months are free.
There will be a charge of £3.00 per bottle for the Lamb Feeding
More >>> Lamb Feeding at Lancaster Park Farm
Trails at Dunham Massey
Dunham Massey is a great place to visit, and this May, they have the following trails to keep families busy.
Pineapple Post with Speechly the Pineapple
Help Speechly deliver the ‘pineapple post’, collect stamps and discover seasonal surprises along the way. Collect a booklet from the Visitor Reception or garden kiosk and follow the clues to complete the trail.
From Here to There: a tour for children
Children are invited to take a journey through the historic house, accompanied by Speechly the Pineapple. Grab a Pineapple Passport from the entrance of the house, spot the suitcase stacks, and collect stamps for your passport.
More >>> Bank Holiday Weekend At Dunham Massey
Spring Trail at Heaton Park
To the 31st May 2026
Pick up a free trail map from Reception (by the Stables Cafe) and follow our family-friendly Spring Trail! This short walk takes you through scenic areas of the Park in search of fun spring characters.
More >>> Spring Trail at Heaton Park
Chorlton Park Fun Fair
Friday 15th to Sunday 17th May 2026
Enjoy a family fun fair at Chorlton Park
You can expect a range of family and kids rides, all of which cost just £2.00
More >>> Chorlton Park Fun Fair
Block Party ’26, Waterside Arts
Saturday 16th May 2026
Waterside Arts in Sale is hosting a huge free day of celebration, creativity and community with the return of Block Party ’26. Families can enjoy live performances, music, spoken word, circus acts, creative workshops and colourful outdoor entertainment across Waterside Plaza and Sale Library.
Highlights include Mini Pride for younger children, interactive activities, live drawing, community stalls and plenty of family-friendly performances throughout the day. Free event suitable for all ages.
To find out more >>> Block Party ’26
South Manchester Food Festival 2026, Wythenshawe Park
Saturday 16th to Sunday 17th May 2026
Manchester’s huge spring food festival is returning to Wythenshawe Park for a weekend packed with street food, live music, family entertainment and chef demonstrations. Expect global flavours, artisan markets, independent bars and plenty of outdoor fun as the festival takes over the park once again.
Families can enjoy live performances, children’s entertainment and brand-new attractions alongside some of the region’s best food traders and cookery experiences.
Tickets from £6.95, with free entry options available for some sessions. Suitable for all ages.
To book >>> South Manchester Food Festival 2026
Free and Cheap April Events In Manchester
Family days out don’t have to be expensive, and May is packed with free and low-cost events across Manchester. These ideas are perfect for filling weekends and school holidays without stretching your budget.
From museum activities and community events to simple outdoor fun, these budget-friendly options make it easy to enjoy time together while keeping costs down.
Make sure to also check out >>> Cheap and Free Things To Do In Manchester
Spies, Lies and Deception, IWM North
ongoing until 31st August 2026
Step into a world of secrets and intrigue at IWM North with Spies, Lies and Deception. This free exhibition reveals how deception has shaped history, showing real espionage stories, hidden messages and clever ruses used in wartime. Discover gadgets, disguises, coded documents and personal stories from spies past and present, then test your observational skills on the top-secret exhibition trail designed for young recruits and curious visitors alike.
Free to attend. Great for families and teens with an interest in history and mystery.
More >>> Spies, Lies and Deception, IWM North
Family Activities at The People’s History Museum, Manchester
All of May
The People’s History Museum is lovely for families with lots of interactive exhibitions and activities. Plus, they will be running the following activities:
- Banner Bingo, Daily, Free, Daily – Go on a quest to find images featured in the banners in the galleries to match those on your bingo card. Get a line and shout BINGO, get a full card and shout HOUSE. Suitable for over 5’s.
- Makers Market – Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th May 2026 – Browse beautifully crafted gifts, curated homeware edits and original ideas for a truly unique shopping experience. Plus, there will be a choir on 17th May.
- Story Telling Zone – From Monday, 25th May – then daily – Spin the dice on the story generator, peer into the emotions mirror and use your face, body, or voice to express different feelings and bring your story to life using puppets and props.
The Museum is open daily except Tuesdays from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm
More >>> Families at People’s History Museum
Human Natures Exhibition, Manchester Museum
Wednesday 22nd April – Sunday 1st November 2026
Explore the new Human Natures exhibition at Manchester Museum, an immersive, family-friendly experience looking at our relationship with the natural world. Through interactive displays, striking installations and fascinating objects from the museum’s collections, visitors can discover stories about wildlife, fashion, waste, climate and the ways humans shape the planet.
The exhibition encourages families to think about nature, sustainability and the environment through creative and thought-provoking experiences designed to spark conversation and curiosity.
Free exhibition, recommended for ages 11+.
To find out more >>> Human Natures Exhibition
Outdoor Art Club, The Whitworth
Saturday 16th May 2026
Little explorers can get creative outdoors at The Whitworth’s popular Outdoor Art Club. These free play-based sessions encourage children to connect with nature through mud painting, water play, potion making and hands-on sensory activities in Whitworth Park.
Designed especially for children aged 2–8, the relaxed drop-in sessions let families move between activities at their own pace while enjoying outdoor creative play, whatever the weather.
Free drop-in family activity.
To find out more >>> Outdoor Art Club
£2.00 Family Films, Cineworld Ashton Under Lyne
Weekends In May
Enjoy a weekend trip to the cinema without breaking the bank with the £2.00 Family Films at Cineworld Ashton.
Films and tickets are usually released on Tuesdays.
Read More >>> £2.00 Family Films at Cineworld Ashton
Family Shows In May, Manchester
A trip to see a show is a lovely way to make memories together, and May brings plenty of family-friendly performances to stages across Manchester.
From magical storytelling and lively musicals to productions designed especially for younger audiences, these shows are perfect for introducing children to live theatre and enjoying a special family treat.
HAY, The Met Bury
Saturday 9th May 2026
Experience *HAY* at The Met, a beautifully playful and sensory family show inspired by the colours, textures and sounds of rural life.
Through imaginative movement, inventive staging and engaging visuals, this production invites audiences, young and old, to explore the everyday wonders of nature and the landscape around them. It’s a delightful celebration of discovery and play that’s especially great for families with younger children.
Tickets from £12. Perfect for children aged 3 to 7 and their grown-ups.
To book >>> HAY, The Met Bury
WiFi Wars 4, Octagon Bolton
Saturday 9th May 2026
Join the digital showdown at *WiFi Wars 4* at Octagon Bolton — a laugh-packed, interactive comedy gaming night where teams battle it out with hilarious video game challenges!
Whether you’re dodging virtual spiders, racing through silly obstacle courses or competing in outrageous mini-games, this event is all about funny moments, audience interaction and friendly competition. Ideal for teens, grown-ups and anyone who loves games, laughs and good old-fashioned fun.
Tickets from £8. Recommended for teens and adults.
To book >>> WiFi Wars 4, Octagon Bolton
The Karate Kid – The Musical, Palace Theatre, Manchester
Tuesday 12th to Saturday 23rd May 2026
Don’t miss *The Karate Kid – The Musical* at Palace Theatre Manchester, the thrilling stage adaptation of the beloved 1984 film that brings Daniel LaRusso’s journey to life with spectacular musical numbers, inventive choreography and high-energy storytelling.
Follow Daniel as he learns karate, friendship and the true meaning of balance under the guidance of Mr. Miyagi in a show packed with heart, resilience and unforgettable theatre moments.
Tickets from £15. Great for families, teens and anyone who loves big-stage musicals.
To book >>> The Karate Kid – The Musical, Palace Theatre, Manchester
The Detective Dog, Z-arts Manchester
Saturday 16th May 2026
Join The Detective Dog on a clever and fun family adventure at Z-arts Manchester! Based on the much-loved children’s book, this interactive show invites audiences to help solve a mystery as the clue-sniffing canine and friends track down lost treasures.
Packed with playful storytelling, live performances and moments kids can join in with, it’s a brilliant choice for young sleuths and families looking for engaging theatre together.
Tickets from £10. Perfect for children aged 3 and up and families.
To book >>> The Detective Dog, Z-arts Manchester
Baby Rock: Hackney Colliery Band, The Met, Bury
Sunday 17th May 2026
Rock and roll meets baby fun with *Baby Rock: Hackney Colliery Band* at The Met in Bury! This lively lunchtime event brings the brilliant Hackney Colliery Band to a family-friendly stage, blending energetic brass music with playful rhythms and interactive moments designed for babies and toddlers.
Perfect for sensory stimulation, shared listening and early music-making, this unique show invites families to enjoy live music in a relaxed environment.
Tickets from £10. Ideal for babies, toddlers and their grown-ups.
To book >>> Baby Rock: Hackney Colliery Band, The Met Bury
The Singing Mermaid, HOME Manchester
Saturday 23rd to Sunday 24th May 2026
Dive into a magical underwater tale with *The Singing Mermaid* at HOME Manchester, a vibrant family theatre show based on the beloved book by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks.
Follow the mermaid as she leaves her ocean home for what she thinks will be exciting adventures, only to find herself in a circus that doesn’t quite match her dreams. With beautiful puppetry, catchy music and engaging performances, this heartwarming production is a delightful mix of song, story and stage magic for young audiences and their grown-ups.
Tickets from around £14.30. Suitable for children aged 3 and up and families.
To book >>> The Singing Mermaid, HOME Manchester
The Utterly Revolting Science Show, Waterside Arts Sale
Sunday 24th May 2026
Get ready for *The Utterly Revolting Science Show* at Waterside Arts in Sale — a hilariously gross and brilliant science stunt spectacle that makes learning fun! Join the Rude Science team as they blast through burp biology, fart physics, edible chemistry and explosive experiments that will have audiences roaring with laughter and awe.
With enormous bottoms, edible fireworks, burp machines and audience participation, this high‑energy show turns science into a spectacular adventure that’s perfect for curious kids and families looking for outrageous entertainment.
Tickets cost from £18 for adults and £16 for children. Suitable for ages 5 and up.
To book >>> The Utterly Revolting Science Show, Waterside Arts Sale
Take Flight, Z-arts Manchester
Saturday 23rd to Sunday 24th May 2026
Take Flight is a stunning multi-sensory family theatre show at Z-arts designed especially for babies aged 0 to 2 and their grown-ups. Follow a musical mother bird as her baby hatches, grows and explores the world, learning about hunger, sleep, and play before a beautiful moment when the baby learns to leave the nest.
After the performance, little ones can enjoy a stay-and-play session with safe set pieces and soft props that encourage curiosity and imagination.
Tickets from £10. Perfect for babies aged 0 to 2 and their grown-ups.
To book >>> Take Flight, Z-arts Manchester
Waitress, Palace Theatre, Manchester
Tuesday 26th May to Saturday 30th May 2026
Don’t miss *Waitress* at Palace Theatre Manchester, the heart-warming and witty musical that follows Jenna, a waitress and expert pie-maker with big dreams of a better life.
As she navigates love, friendship and the challenges of small-town life, this joyful show serves up laughter, emotion and a brilliant score by Sara Bareilles. It’s a feel-good night out for anyone who loves uplifting musical theatre.
Tickets from £20. A great choice for teens and adults who enjoy musical comedy.
To book >>> Waitress, Palace Theatre, Manchester
Browse >>> What’s On Each Month In Manchester for Kids
More >>> Things To Do In Manchester City Centre For Kids
Discover >>> Free and Cheap Days Out In Manchester
