International Women’s Day is coming up on Saturday 8 March 2025 – so we’ve pulled together some of the best spots for celebrating and learning about our city’s pioneering, creative and world-changing women. Most of these places have special events or tours running to mark the occasion – details below. And for more suggestions of things to do this IWD, head to our what’s on listings.
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ArdwickMore detailsElizabeth Gaskell’s House
Immerse yourself in the home of Elizabeth Gaskell, one of the pioneer’s of female literature. There’s also an exhibition by the Trailblazing Stitching Group featuring textile work that raises the profile of Manchester’s forgotten women.
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Manchester City CentreMore detailsEmmeline Pankhurst Statue
Emmeline Pankhurst is one of the heroes of women’s equality. Say hello to her statue to mark International Women’s Day.
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Media CityMore detailsImperial War Museum North
Go and see feminist artist, Chila Burman’s, new exhibition of neon light works, printmaking, film and drawing at Imperial War Museum North.
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Manchester City CentreMore detailsManchester Central Library
Manchester Central Library is holding a series of events to mark International Women’s Day.
The events are based around the acronym HER, featuring activities to heal, encourage and revive. Opportunities include a healing and relaxing mindfulness session, an encouraging Young Identity performance poetry session and a reviving Bollyfit exercise class. There’s also a bookable pop-up spa.
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Manchester City CentreMore detailsManchester Museum
Sign up for one of Manchester Museum’s free International Women’s Day Tours focusing on different spaces of the Museum’s collections.
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Manchester City CentreMore detailsThe Manchester Shop
Buy your suffragette badge and show solidarity with the fight for equality on International Women’s Day.
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Oxford RoadMore detailsThe Pankhurst Centre
This small but mighty museum is ran by women and celebrates the pioneering women who changed history.
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SpinningfieldsMore detailsPeople’s History Museum
The People’s History Museum is the place to learn about feminism whether you’re already a seasoned campaigner in the fight for equality or a child learning about fairness.
Sign up for the International Women’s Day guided tour or take your kids on a Little Suffragette’s Trail or a Radical Women Trail around the museum.
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Manchester City CentreMore detailsRoyal Exchange Theatre
Saturday 8 March – International Women’s Day – is your last chance to catch Caryl Churchill’s double bill of short plays at Manchester’s Royal Exchange Theatre.
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SalfordMore detailsWorking Class Movement Library
The Working Class Movement Library is holding an open archive day on Saturday 8 March, giving you a chance to explore the collection on the suffragettes, women’s liberation and more. It also coincides with a book sale.
