November with Manchester Is Ace
Ok so we are slightly into November, but things have been busy in Manchester! It’s starting to feel Christmassy around these parts, so let’s get festive.
1. North Pole Bar
The North Pole bar is back for its second year! Run by events company Ear To The Ground, this festive pop-up bar offers all manner of warming seasonal cocktails. Last year, the bar was sat just under Urbis like a little wig-wam but this year it’s hopped across the city and will be opening at Spinningfields next to the ice skating rink.
Seriously, try the Hot Buttered Rum cocktail. Oh there’s also a ice skating rink and a carousel – don’t forget those.
The North Pole Bar is open from November 12, 11am to 11pm every day, until January 2, 2010.
Location: Spinningfields, just off Deansgate.
2. Homegrown
This new exhibition at Urbis charts the rise of British hip hop from the late 70s, right through to now, from a thoroughly niche type of music right up to it becoming mainstream.
Based on the first floor, the exhibition has some great videos of youngsters flinging themselves around breakdancing. How did they not trip over on their flares? There’s also a fantastic collection of magazines, music and posters, enough to keep you busy for hours.
There’s some great blasts from the past, including Normski’s BBC2 programme Dance Energy – remember that?
There’s so much to see here, I’ve already been once and am planning to go back to watch some more cool hip-hop videos.
Free until March 2010.
Location: Urbis, Cathedral Gardens, Manchester, M4 3BG
T: 0161 605 8200
W: www.urbis.org.uk
3. And finally, the Christmas Markets.
I was having a good think about a really cool and cultured event to add on for number three. But you know what, everyone gets so excited about the Christmas Markets, I just had to mention it.
Over here in Manchester, we just love being able to stand outside all wrapped up in hats, scarf and gloves, surrounded by sparkly lights, drinking glühwein and overpriced bratwurst, reminiscing about the old massive Santa that used to lean over the town hall. The true meaning of Christmas.
Every year Manchester Christmas Markets gets bigger, and is slowly taking over the whole city centre. As well as the apline chalets that cluster upon Albert Square, there are markets in St Ann’s Square and Exchange Square, plus dining tents on Brazennose Street and crafty arty stalls outside the Triangle Shopping Centre.
More about Manchester Christmas Markets
So come on down and join in the festive fun!
Visit www.manchesterisace.co.uk for all the latest goings-on across the Pennines.
