Things to Do in Manchester in October 2026
An Action-Packed October in Manchester
October is a big month in Manchester. As the nights draw in and the city takes on its autumn energy, the events calendar comes alive with live music, theatre, sport, culture, literature and plenty of family-friendly fun.
From the return of The Warehouse Project to Halloween taking over the city centre, October brings a little bit of everything to Manchester. There are legendary bands taking to the stage, ice hockey returning to the AO Arena, thought-provoking exhibitions, world-class theatre and plenty to keep younger visitors entertained during half term.
For a city break packed with things to see and do, Hotel Indigo Manchester – Victoria Station puts you right in the middle of it all. Located beside Manchester Victoria Station and moments from the AO Arena, our hotel makes a stylish and comfortable base for exploring the city. Here’s what’s happening in Manchester this October.
Dance the night away at The Warehouse Project
Manchester’s legendary clubbing institution is back for another season at Depot Mayfield, and October is bringing some serious names to the city.
The Warehouse Project’s 2026 season continues throughout the month, with highlights including Hannah Laing on 16 October and Eric Prydz on 17 October, alongside a packed programme of electronic music, DJs and all-night sets.
For music lovers looking to experience one of Manchester’s most iconic nights out, it’s a date for the diary. And after the last track has played, Hotel Indigo Manchester – Victoria Station is just a short journey away, ready for a little downtime.
Experience Manchester’s darker side at Halloween in the City
October wouldn’t be complete without a little spooky season.
Halloween in the City returns this October, with the MCR Monsters celebrating their 10th anniversary by taking over Manchester’s streets, rooftops and landmarks. The giant inflatable monster trail runs from 24 to 31 October, with monsters appearing at locations including Exchange Square, Printworks, the Science and Industry Museum and the AO Arena.
The free Halloween in the City Weekender on 24 and 25 October is particularly family-friendly, with live entertainment, spooky storytelling, party games, fancy dress and a spectacular monster procession taking place around the city centre. It’s a great reminder that Halloween in Manchester isn’t just for grown-ups.
Celebrate Black History Month at Aviva Studios
October is also a time to celebrate Manchester’s diverse communities, creativity and cultural heritage.
To mark Black History Month, Aviva Studios is hosting Portrait of Black Britain, the acclaimed photographic exhibition by artist Cephas Williams. Originally commissioned for Manchester International Festival in 2021, the exhibition returns to the city throughout October, celebrating the lives, identities and experiences of Black people living across the UK. Entry is free, with no booking required.
For visitors interested in Manchester’s creative side, it’s an opportunity to experience something meaningful, inspiring and distinctly connected to the city.
Get your adrenaline fix with Manchester Storm
October is a big month for Manchester Storm as the team continues its landmark return to the AO Arena.
Hotel Indigo Manchester – Victoria Station is proud to be the Official Hotel Partner of Manchester Storm for the 2026/27 season, making this one particularly close to home for us. The team has returned to its original home at the AO Arena for the first time in 24 years, bringing live ice hockey back to the heart of Manchester.
There are several home fixtures throughout October, including games against Nottingham Panthers and Sheffield Steelers on 10 and 11 October, Belfast Giants on 18 October and Coventry Blaze on 30 October. Fast-paced, energetic and a whole lot of fun, Manchester Storm is a brilliant option for a night out with friends or family.
Lose yourself in a good book at Manchester Literature Festival
For something a little more thoughtful, Manchester Literature Festival returns from 9 to 25 October with a packed programme of talks, readings, performances and conversations.
The 2026 line-up includes Maggie O’Farrell, Kate Atkinson, Emily St. John Mandel, Russell T Davies, Elif Shafak, Jackie Kay and plenty more. There’s also a dedicated programme for children and families, including events celebrating the Gruffalo Granny and the Beano.
Taking place across venues throughout the city, the festival is a great way to discover new voices, revisit favourite authors and see a different side of Manchester.
Make a night of it with Manchester’s theatre scene
Manchester’s theatres are putting on a particularly strong show this October.
At the Royal Exchange Theatre, King Lear runs from 2 October to 15 November, with David Threlfall taking on the title role in Matthew Dunster’s new production of Shakespeare’s tragedy.
For something much darker, The Haunting of Hill House arrives at Manchester Palace Theatre from 27 to 31 October. The new stage adaptation of Shirley Jackson’s classic ghost story is a perfect fit for the Halloween season.
With theatres, restaurants and bars all within easy reach of the hotel, Manchester makes it easy to turn a show into a full evening out.
Big nights out at Co-op Live
October also brings plenty of big-name live music to Manchester.
Westlife arrive at Co-op Live for Westlife 25: The Anniversary World Tour on 23, 24 and 25 October. Expect plenty of classic pop hits and a night built for singing along.
And for something with a little more indie edge, The Strokes bring their Reality Awaits tour to Co-op Live on 26 October, with Fat White Family and Alex Cameron joining them.
From pop anthems to indie rock, Manchester’s October gig calendar has plenty to choose from.
Stay close to the action at Hotel Indigo Manchester
With so much happening across the city, location makes all the difference.
Hotel Indigo Manchester – Victoria Station sits right beside Manchester Victoria Station, close to the Northern Quarter, Printworks and the AO Arena. Co-op Live and many of Manchester’s best-known cultural venues are also within easy reach. Explore more of our neighbourhood here.
From ice hockey and indie rock to literature, theatre, Halloween and family adventures, October in Manchester really does have something for everyone.
Make the most of it from the heart of the city at Hotel Indigo Manchester – Victoria Station.