Looking for fun, free activities to enjoy with the kids this Easter? Across Manchester and Failsworth, there’s plenty on offer to keep the family entertained during the school holidays—without breaking the bank. From parks and museums to creative workshops and Easter trails, here’s a round-up of the best free things to do this April.

Free Activities & Events Across Manchester

Central Library – Easter Family Fun

Location: Manchester Central Library
Dates: 5–19 April | 11:30am–4pm
Drop in for stories, crafts and activities in the city’s iconic library building. More info here.

Oldham Bunny Hunt

Dates: 29 March – 14 April 2024
Pick up an entry form from the table near Next or any participating store, then search for 12 bunnies hidden throughout Spindles, Tommyfield Market, and around the town centre.
Write down the names of the bunnies and where you found them, and post your completed form in the letterbox at Spindles or Tommyfield Market. Winners will be selected after 14 April to receive a selection of prizes from the town centre. More information here.

This is a great free day out for families and a fun way to explore the town centre during the Easter break.

Manchester Art Gallery – Term of Creativity

Dates: 26 March – 1 May | 10am–5pm
Explore the galleries and get hands-on with drop-in art sessions for families. More info here.

Make It! Coconut Pyramids – Baking Workshop

Date: Thursday 10 April 2025
Time: 10:30am – 2:00pm
Location: Manchester Jewish Museum in Cheetham

Join Manchester Jewish Museum for a hands-on family baking workshop to make and decorate traditional coconut pyramids, a sweet treat enjoyed during Passover. Open to all ages (children must be accompanied by an adult). Includes access to family activity backpacks and museum spaces. More info here.

Elizabeth Gaskell’s House – Family Easter Activities

Location: Ardwick
Dates: 6–20 April
Take part in Victorian-themed family crafts and activities in this beautiful historic home. Entry free for under-16s. More info here.

Outdoor Adventures

Whitworth Park – Easter Scavenger Hunt

Date: 11 April | 1–3pm
A fun-filled scavenger hunt in the park, great for kids to explore and discover. More info here.

Heaton Park, Mayfield Park & Failsworth Memorial Park

Perfect for picnics, nature trails, play areas and open green space. No booking required.

Museums & Cultural Hotspots (All Free Entry)

• Science and Industry Museum – Explore machines, experiments and family exhibits.

• Manchester Museum – See dinosaurs, mummies and world cultures.

• People’s History Museum – Learn about democracy and social change.

• The Whitworth – Contemporary art gallery with family-friendly activities.

Free Swimming for Manchester Kids

Young people who live in Manchester can swim for free during school holidays at local leisure centres. You must register in advance. More info here.

Local Library Fun in Failsworth

Failsworth Library will be running Easter-themed craft sessions, storytelling, and reading challenges throughout the school holidays. Visit the library or check their website here for updates.

Easter Bunny Hunt at Sackville Gardens

Date: Sunday 7 April 2025
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Location: Sackville Gardens, Manchester

Take part in an Easter Bunny Hunt in Sackville Gardens. A great way to get outdoors and enjoy some festive fun in the city centre. More info here.

Parkrun at Philips Park

Recurring: Every Saturday morning
Time: 9:00am – 10:15am
Location: Philips Park in Clayton

A free, fun, and friendly 5K community run suitable for all abilities. Walk, jog, run, volunteer, or cheer others on. Great for families and a brilliant way to stay active together. More info here.

Kids Eat Free or for £1

Many supermarkets and cafés are offering meal deals over the school holidays:

• Asda, Morrisons, Tesco, Sainsbury’s cafés – kids eat for £1 or free with a paying adult.

• Bella Italia, YO! Sushi, M&S Café – check individual websites for details and availability.

Failsworth Sports Camp

Location: Failsworth Sports Centre
Dates: Monday 7 April – Friday 11 April, and Monday 14 April – Thursday 17 April
Time: 9:00am – 3:30pm
Age: 6–11 years
Cost: £16.50 per child, per day

This multi-activity sports camp is run by qualified Oldham Active coaches and offers a fun, active way for children to stay engaged over the Easter holidays.

Failsworth Gymnastics Camp

Location: Failsworth
Dates: Monday 7 April – Thursday 10 April
Time: 10:00am – 2:00pm
Age: 6–11 years
Cost: £16.50 per child, per day

A dedicated gymnastics camp where children can try out equipment such as boxes, bars, and beams, all under the supervision of trained coaches.

Booking Information for Failsworth Sports and Gymnastics Camp

All bookings are now handled through the Eequ booking system. You’ll need to create an account to register, manage bookings, and make payments. Visit here for more information.

There is plenty of free and low-cost activities for children and families across Manchester and Failsworth. For even more ideas, visit Manchester City Council’s guide here and Oldham Councils events website here.