School Holidays in Manchester

Looking for things to do during the summer school holidays – then you’re in the right place. There are loads of fun activities, from sports camps to family-friendly events to keep all ages entertained. And with many of them free or low-cost, they won’t break the bank.

In Manchester, we also run a free holiday club programme for children on benefits-related free school meals. All of the sessions must be booked via our partner site Manchester Active. For information on what’s available near you, and how to book click here.

Have a fantastic summer.

A bright blue sky with some cloud cover and the tops of three leafy tree branches. School holidays in Manchester.
Image credit: Pexels/ Murat Halici

Top Picks

Photograph of Section 28 protest, Manchester, 20 February 1988

Re/Assemble

People’s History Museum, City Centre

17 January 2026 - 3 January 2027

10:00am - 5:00pm

Free
Out Here in block white capital letters over an abstract oil painting background.

Out Here

Castlefield Gallery, City Centre Castlefield Deansgate

3 May 2026 - 19 July 2026

12:00pm - 5:30pm

Free
A wide countryside view shows pale limestone rocks scattered across a grassy slope, suggesting an ancient stone setting. A single person crouches beside one group of stones, while patchwork fields and low hills extend into the distance under a soft, open sky.

Common Ground

Manchester Craft & Design Centre, City Centre

7 April 2026 - 28 August 2026

10:00am - 4:00pm

Free

Hear about things in Manchester

* I am happy for Manchester City Council to store my details. Please note you can request us to remove your details from our records at any time by contacting [email protected]