Festive Fun in Manchester 2024
The festive season is here, and you’re in for a treat with all the wonderful Christmas activities happening around Manchester!
Whether you want to indulge in some Christmas food and drink, cosy up a heart-warming holiday film, or glide across the ice like a penguin – there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
We hope you have a blast at all the Christmas events in Manchester. But remember to keep your safety in mind with our top tips to enjoying the festive season safely.
Seven ways to celebrate Christmas in Manchester
Twilight Trail
Journey through an enchanting Twilight Trail, the perfect inner-city Christmas destination. Walk among festive light displays, lantern installations and an underscored by a festive soundscape. If that doesn’t sound magical enough, you can also enjoy hot chocolate, mulled wine, and pies to get make the moment feel even more festive. Or why not book a table at Freight Islands Christmas takeover, Winter Island?
When – November 14 – December 31
Where – Mayfield Park
Winterhood
For the second time, Diecast is bringing back its festive Winterhood experience! Taking over the main factory floor is their ‘Fairytale of New York’ Brooklyn beer hall, along with their iconic caravans that have been sprinkled with lots of Christmas spirit. You’ll be able to get stuck into the sausage grill, marshmallow toasting, campfires, the winter garden and a dance floor under sparkling lights.
When – November 1 – December 30
Where – Diecast, Ducie Street
Skate Manchester
Get your skates on and take to the ice on Skate Manchester’s outdoor ice rink in the heart of the city. Show off your moves as you lap around the giant Christmas tree, right on the rink. Don’t forget to use your Student Discount and claim 20% off ticket prices Monday to Thursday for all off-peak sessions up until 19 December 2024 with code 24STUDENT2520.
When – November 8 – January 1
Where – Cathedral Gardens
Aprés ski themed bar and karaoke
Head over to Kampus to experience the vibes of the aprés ski, without the cold! You can feast on epic pizzas from Nell’s, bespoke Christmas cocktails, shot skis, and even a Karaoke Hütte for you and seven friends – drink in hand. Dance the night away under the twinkling lights in this cosy, alpine-themed bar.
When – November 13 – December 30
Where – Kampus
Christmas Movies at HOME
With heart-warming theatre performances of Miracle on 34th Street to their festive film season A New York Christmas, there is something to see all season long at HOME. Their cinema tickets are just £3.50, and theatre tickets start at £25. HOME is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit, with a lineup that goes perfectly alongside their festive food and drink menu.
When – November 8 – December 31
Where – HOME
Manchester Christmas Parade
If you’re looking for something fun and free to do in Manchester this Christmas, don’t sleep on the Manchester Christmas Parade! The annual parade brings a bit of magic to the city centre, with a circular route that starts and ends at Manchester Cathedral. Expect classic Christmas tunes, dancing mice, an oversized polar bear, stilt walkers, and Manchester’s own Elf Express as the centrepiece!
When – 1pm, Sunday 8 November
Where – Manchester Cathedral
Manchester Christmas Markets
Just a reminder in case you forgot! Manchester’s famous Christmas markets are back in action, and if you’ve not been before it’s an absolute must visit for the season. Offering six weeks of shopping over nine locations, there are over 200 stalls spread across the city offering festive food, drinks, and handmade gifts.
When – November 8 – December 22
Where – Piccadilly Gardens, Market Street, Cathedral Gardens, Exchange Street, New Cathedral Street, St Ann’s Square, Exchange Square, The Corn Exchange, and King Street West.
