SpringFest arrives at Victoria Baths on Saturday 15 April transforming the famous pool halls into a cultural hub celebrating art and music from across Greater Manchester and beyond. The beautiful Grade II* listed Baths is the perfect backdrop for a day full of music, art, food, and fun (11am to 4pm). This year the good times continue into the evening with Victoria Baths Presents Ríoghnach Connolly and Honeyfeet, which will see the critically acclaimed singer and band taking to the stage from 7pm.

SpringFest, 11am to 4pm – tickets £7 (with voluntary donation) or £6 (no donation)
The doors to SpingFest will open at 11am with a diverse range of music from rhythmic bass and Afrobeat, to Ukrainian folk and Ukulele troops, pop-up art exhibitions and creativity to get involved in. This is a day for families, friends or solos – everyone’s welcome!

Explore the Baths, taking in the stunning tiles and stained glass interiors, to find exhibitions from Manchester artists Rachael Field and Nick Telfer from Pool Arts Studio, alongside illustrator Sarah Thorley and printmaker Paulette Bansal, plus more to be announced. The music during the day will be just as vibrant as the art; the rhythmic bass of Tungusku and Sens Sagna and the Kajamor Family, songs to sing along to from Chorlton Ukelele Group, the folk feel of Seamus Og & Friends and Klezmorim of Manchester are all part of the programme.

Take the music into your own hands with Make, Do and Disco from family fun experts Our Kids Social. Jumping into the (empty) Gala Pool with their Under the Sea themed pool party means no cozzies are required, but fancy dress, shimmering party clothes and dancing shoes are definitely encouraged! There’s lots to keep the little ones amused as part of Make Do & Disco (1pm – 2.30pm), including art activities and silent disco headsets for ages 4+, while parents take the chance to catch up with family and friends. The free Victoria Baths activity station and kids play area opens from 11am so the action can start straight away!

Sightsee the Baths at your leisure or get closer to the history and heritage with a guided building tour. There are two to choose from: Discover Victoria Baths running at 12noon, 1.30pm and 2.30pm and Off Limits Tour (recommended for Peaky Blinders fans!) running at 2pm.

With spring in the air, visitors are encouraged to cycle to the day event for a free thank you brew, just show a picture of you and your parked bike on entry.

Victoria Baths Presents Ríoghnach Connolly and Honeyfeet, 7pm to 11pm – tickets £20 (plus booking fee)
Opening the evening are eight-piece Manchester band Galivantes; never ones to be pigeon-holed, but always guaranteed to be highly entertaining. Music that blends ska-punk, reggae, disco, folk and rock influences is why Galivantes have become favourites on the festival circuit.

Then the sublime Ríoghnach Connolly and Honeyfeet will take to the stage performing a set that will thrill fans and those seeing them live for the first time. Ríoghnach Connolly is the current BBC Radio 2 Folk Singer of the Year and when you hear her sing, you’ll understand exactly why. The band’s appearance at Victoria Baths follows the recent release of their latest album, It’s Been A While, Buddy.

Day or night the festival vibe will be completed with street food favourites Honest Crust Sourdough Pizza and Dim Sum Su (think mouth-watering bao buns and more), plus delicious baked goodies and hot drinks from the volunteer led Victoria Baths Tearoom. The Victoria Baths Bar will be open throughout for a wide range of alcoholic and soft drinks.

For further information on Victoria Baths visit www.victoriabaths.org.uk