Here at Mid-Week Manchester, we believe there is nothing better than exploring, being yourself and living your best life.
This is for all the gender diverse and gender fluid trans people out there, especially if you have no or little intention to transition. In old money that might once have meant crossdressers, trannys and transvestites. These days many of us feel such labels are no longer useful, relevant or positive. That said, how each of us identifies is of course entirely up to the individual. Many of you reading this won’t even know who you are yet, and are still working it all out, and that’s okay. However, if you have ever considered expressing your gender identity differently to what it currently is, and wondered where there might be a safe and welcoming space to experiment and try it out, well you have found it. We are a friendly and social community of gender expressive trans people, who happliy venture out into the public bars of the Manchester Village on a Wednesday evening with trusted like-minded others.
Everyone from the trans family, LGBTQ+ communities and those who are just starting to question their place within it, are all welcome, however anyone identifies. Mid-Week Manchester comprises a broad spectrum of individuals. Many who join us on a Wednesday have transitioned, or are on their way, or just starting to think about it, but it’s not for everyone, far from it. For most of us this is just about expressing ourselves every now and then, as and when we can, whatever fits in with our current family and work commitments, whilst importantly maintaining privacy and self-respect. Stepping out for the first time can be a massive thing. We get that. We have all had our first time. We’re right here with you.
There has been a safe and welcoming space in central Manchester since 1974. Mid-Week Manchester just happens to be the latest iteration of a long line of Trans Socials previously including: Manchester TV/TS Group, Northern Concord, Manchester Concord and Manchester Minxs. Perhaps you used to attend? If so, welcome back. For nearly 50 years, every Wednesday, people have transformed themselves according to their own imagination, make-up skills and wardrobe budgets and gathered together throughout the evening. Many go out for dinner, or the cinema, listen to live music or go dancing, whilst others just sit in a pub. Current popular bars include: Via, Rembrandt, Oscars, Iconic, the Molly House, The Goose, Velvet and New York New York. No matter where they started the evening you can be pretty sure they will all end up in one place. For many years this place was the legendary Napoleons, until it sadly closed about 7 years ago. Today it is Centre Stage on Bloom Street, usually from 10pm onwards, often until the early hours of the morning. It’s a cosy, vibrant bar, usually playing some great northern soul to dance to, with some lovely door and bar staff, and a couple or quiet corners to catch up with friends.
You are of course totally free to come and go as you please and plan your own evening. We actively encourage everyone to explore outside the Manchester Village. Try the Northern Quarter, or visit a show or exhibition at HOME or Factory International. Challenge yourself to do something different and befitting the person who you are. Much of this comes with confidence, of course. Above all #StaySafeFeelSafe.
Each week is somebody’s first time out in public. If this is you, let us know and do not worry. It is okay to feel a little nervous. There are many experienced trans angels in our community who will happily take you under their wing, so you get to know everyone and have a good time. If you need any advice on who can help with your make-up, or where best to park, stay-over, eat, drink or dance, just send us a message and join our Facebook Group, as there is loads of information there to help you: https://www.facebook.com/groups/manchesterminxs
My name is Nikki. Please get in touch. Pick a Wednesday. Let us know you are coming, and join in. Manchester has the largest concentration of trans-friendly bars and restaurants in the country. Canal Street is renowned the world over. Yes there are many other wonderful Trans Social groups across the UK, but start here, you’re in good company, and can be assured of a great night out.
Throughout the year there are many Manchester-based trans-related events, weekends and fantastic creative opportunities to consider. Not least every quarter Mid-Week Manchester hosts its very own special social night where we gather in one place, New York New York on Bloom Street for some hot foods, drinks, make-up & styling showcases, music, poetry and comedy too. All great fun. Of course, not everyone can come out every Wednesday, so if once every few months suits you better, look out for the posts for the MID-WEEK MCR CHRISTMAS SOCIAL, SPRING SOCIAL, SUMMER SOCIAL and AUTUMN SOCIAL. Looking forward to seeing you there.
Next summer we will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Trans Social. Watch this space!
There has never been a better time to get out there & explore being yourself.
Go for it. Have fun.
Take care & come back soon X
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Images from Mid-Week Manchester, past and present:
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