The festive season is officially on the horizon, and with the festive season comes the great divide. There are two types of people; those who start the countdown punctually on November 1st, using all of their willpower to hold out a bit longer before dusting off the decorations, and those who refuse any notion of Christmas existing until mid-December.
Whatever side of the debate you sit on, in Manchester, it’s almost impossible to avoid the festivities.
We’re here to get everyone in the festive spirit (even the Scrooges) with a short but sweet guide to Christmas events in Manchester that are absolutely not to be missed!
Christmas Markets
The Christmas Markets are a must-visit whether you’re a Manchester native or a tourist! Attracting over 9 million visitors annually, it’s now favoured as one of the best in the country. With over 225 stalls in attendance, the markets run from 10th November right up until 22nd December, so there’s plenty of time to visit for a Bratwurst and a mulled wine (or three!).
Skate Manchester
Skate Manchester is a fan favourite each year! Placed in the heart of the city at Cathedral Gardens, it’s a HUGE ice rink that’s conveniently placed right next to the Christmas Markets. Whether you consider yourself on par with Torvill and Dean or have to rely on the penguin, rest assured that Skate Manchester welcomes all levels of skaters (no matter how terrible).
Having thought ahead about the typical Northern weather, the ice rink is completely covered, meaning not even a Manc downpour can ruin your day! Thinking about giving it a go? It gets pretty popular, so book your tickets here before it’s too late.
Catch a Panto
Would it be Christmas without a pantomime? Oh no it wouldn’t. If you’re planning a festive day out, why not throw a good ol’ panto into the mix?
One of the many great things about Manchester is we’re never short of theatre shows. Want to go see a classic? Catch Jack and the Beanstalk at the Opera House and Cinderella at the Contact Theatre. Or, if you’re looking for something a bit different, take a trip to Manchester Arena for ELF: The Musical Arena Spectacular. Whatever you’re in the mood for, you’ll be stuck for choice!
Browse a list of Manchester-based pantomimes here!
Miracle on Cross Street
The highly-anticipated ‘Miracle on Cross Street’ is returning from 13th November to 24th December! The festive pop-up can be found at Salt Dog Slims on *drumroll*... Cross Street.
The pop-up will be offering a huge selection of beers, mulled wine and Christmas cocktails, and decked with enough tinsel to give the North Pole a run for its money. If you’re looking to treat yourself after a long day of Secret Santa shopping, this is the place to go!
Christmas at Freight Island
Freight Island has swiftly become one of Manchester’s top destinations for food, beers and just a nice time, really. Getting involved with all kinds of seasonal events, from World Cup showings to Oktoberfest, it’s no surprise that they’re going all out this Christmas.
Freight Island has everything you need to get into the festive spirit. With a seasonal drinks menu, and Christmas food (including their viral bottomless sides Sunday roast), they’re rebranding into ‘Winter Island’, a festive wonderland with a host of events and activities to sink your teeth into. From a Christmas grotto to wreath making, and even ‘The Twilight Trail’, their immersive light display, there’s something for everyone.
Christmas at Heaton Park
From the makers of Christmas at Kew comes Christmas at Heaton Park! From the start of December, Heaton Park will be host to a Christmas light show like no other! Visit the park from 1st December to 31st December for incredible installations, street food vendors and a fairground with attractions.
With all of this happening and more, it’s really no surprise that Manchester is quickly becoming one of the top Christmas destinations to visit in Europe!
Enjoy a Christmas treat from us to you! We’re giving away FREE audits. If you want to know how to market your brand through this season and beyond, get in touch with us!
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