Looking for some exciting plans this Easter? Look no further because Afflecks is turning into a wonderland of fun and festivities for the entire Easter week and beyond! Whether you're a regular visitor or just dropping by for a day or two during the holidays, we've got an array of activities lined up, thanks to our amazing traders who've prepared a jam-packed schedule to keep you and the kids entertained.

Friday 29th March - Occult: Unveiling a New Gothic Haven

Kicking off the Easter week celebrations, we're thrilled to announce the grand opening of Occult, a brand new alternative store in our arcade! Explore their mesmerising collection of gothic jewellery and accessories as they expand into a larger space, promising an enchanting shopping experience for all dark souls out there.

Monday 1st April - LGBTQ Singles Dumpling Making Workshop with Desert Island Dumplings
Join us for a unique culinary experience where delicious dumplings meet new friendships or relationships! Desert Island Dumplings is hosting a special workshop filled with fun icebreaker games, dumpling-making lessons, and the chance to meet potential mates and dates in a relaxed atmosphere. Tickets are limited, so grab yours and roll into a flavourful adventure!

Tickets: £30
Times:12-2pm
Purchase tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lgbtq-singles-dumpling-workshop-tickets-852228527467?aff=oddtdtcreator

Tuesday 2nd April - Kids Paint a Pot Party at Greenbank Gardens
Let your little ones unleash their creativity at Greenbank Gardens' Kids Paint a Pot Party! With tickets including painting supplies, a sweet treat, a drink and loads of fun, it's the perfect opportunity for kids to get their hands dirty and craft their own masterpiece. Don't miss out on this artistic escapade!

Tickets: Kids £10 / Family of 3, £30, 1 adult and 2 kids / Family of 4, £35, 2 adults and 2 kids
Time: 12-2pm
Purchase tickets: https://www.instagram.com/greenbankgardens/

Wednesday 3rd April - Group Reiki Session with Higher Vibe Tribe

Indulge in an intimate and serene experience as we delve into the profound world of Reiki healing. Led by Deli, an experienced Reiki healer at Higher Vibe Tribe, this group session is designed to promote overall well-being and restore harmony to your mind, body, and spirit.

What to Expect:
Grounding Chakra Meditation: Begin your journey with a grounding chakra meditation, allowing yourself to connect deeply with the present moment and centre your energy.
Group Reiki Healing: Experience the gentle yet powerful effects of group Reiki as collective healing energy flows through the room, enveloping you in a cocoon of tranquillity.
Personal Reiki Energy: Each participant will have the opportunity to receive personal moments of Reiki energy, tailored to their individual needs and intentions.
Reflective Contemplation: Conclude the session with a reflective contemplation, allowing yourself to integrate the healing energies and insights gained during the session.

We'll provide yoga mats for your comfort, but feel free to bring your own if you prefer.

Additional Comfort Items: Enhance your experience by bringing along any additional items such as blankets, pillows, or eye masks to create your own cosy sanctuary.

Thursday 4th / Friday 5th April - Animaid Cosplay Competition and Easter Egg Hunt
Calling all Cos-players. Get ready to unleash your inner hero, villain, or magical creature because the Animaid cafe is hosting an epic event that's sure to bring out your cosplay prowess! Join us for the Animaid Cosplay Competition, where creativity, talent, and passion collide in a celebration of all things cosplay.

Dates: Thursday, April 4th / Friday, April 5th
Location: Animaid Café, Afflecks, Manchester

Animaid cafe/ Cosplay Competition Highlights:

• Bunny-Themed Menu: Dive into the Easter spirit with the limited edition bunny-themed menu, featuring a delightful array of treats including milkshakes, milk tea, fruit tea, and ice cream. Indulge in flavours like our signature Carrot Milkshake, a tantalizing blend of lotus flavor with mango popping pearls, topped with whipped cream, strawberries, and pearls.

• Bunny Maid Staff: Our friendly Animaid staff will be dressed in adorable bunny-themed maid outfits, adding a touch of whimsy and charm to your cosplay experience.

• Big Figure Sale: Don't miss out on our big figure sale, featuring a wide selection of collectibles and memorabilia at irresistible prices. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a casual fan, there's something for everyone to discover.

• Easter Egg Hunt: Join in the hunt for sweet surprises hidden throughout the Animaid Café on Fulton Fifth. Keep your eyes peeled for hidden treats and enjoy a thrilling adventure with friends and fellow cosplayers.

• Cosplay Competition: Showcase your cosplay skills and creativity for a chance to win fabulous prizes, including the coveted title of the cutest Sanrio plushie! There's no set time for the competition – simply visit the Animaid Café on the 4th or 5th of April to participate. The winner will be announced the following week on April 12th, with entries posted online on our anime Instagram page for public voting.

Saturday 6th April - Live Music at Mars Tapes

Mars Tapes is known for curating unique and eclectic musical experiences, showcasing local talent and emerging artists from various genres. With a commitment to supporting the vibrant music scene in Manchester, Mars Tapes continues to be a favourite destination for music enthusiasts and artists alike.

For all music lovers and aficionados of psychedelic sounds: mark your calendars for Saturday, April 6th, because Afflecks is about to transform into a musical haven with Live at Mars Tapes featuring the incredible Henry J Smith, a local artist renowned for his psychedelic and 60s-inspired sounds.

Henry J Smith will be performing multiple sets between 1pm and 4pm, ensuring that there's plenty of time for you to immerse yourself in his enchanting music. Whether you're stopping by for a quick listen or planning to stay for the entire afternoon, you're in for a treat!

Time: 1pm - 4pm
Location: 3rd Floor of Afflecks, Manchester

Saturday 6th April - Dog Show with Noff & Nana

Calling all pooches and their proud owners! Join us on the 2nd floor of Afflecks for the first-ever in-store Dog Show hosted by Noff & Nana. From 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, unleash your furry friend's inner star and enter them into one of our exciting show categories, including Biggest Ears, Best Dressed, Waggiest Tail, Happiest Smile, Cutest Rescue, and Dog that most resembles their owner!

How to Enter: -Entry is £2 per dog, with one category entry per dog. -In-person entries only. Please do not send in photos via Instagram or email. -Fill out a registration form on the day with your dog's name, chosen category, and contact details.

• Noff & Nana prioritise responsible pet ownership and the well-being of all participating dogs. Participation should be voluntary, and no dog should be forced to take part if they're not comfortable.
• All entrants will receive delicious homemade doggy biscuits as a treat!
• Voting will be conducted by YOU via our Instagram stories on April 7th. The winner of each category will receive a fabulous prize courtesy of Noff & Nana. Stay tuned to their Instagram page for updates and to cast your vote for your favourite furry contestant!

Sunday 7th April - Kids Dumpling Making Workshop with Desert Island Dumplings

Round off the Easter festivities with another delightful dumpling-making workshop, specially designed for our younger chefs! Aged 5-12 years. Join Desert Island Dumplings for a morning filled with dumpling games, masterclasses, and unlimited juice to keep the creative juices flowing. It's a culinary adventure the kids won't forget!

Time: 11:30-2pm
Tickets: £25
Ages: 5-12 years
Purchase tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kids-dumpling-making-workshop-tickets-852217715127