51 Things To Do in Manchester this Christmas

1. Uncover the hero within us all as Disney On Ice returns to AO Arena with the magical adventures of beloved Disney characters brought to life like never before.

2. Experience the magic of A Christmas Carol brought to life on stage by Gerald Charles Dickens, the great-great-grandson of Charles Dickens, in a fully acted, one-man performance that has received standing ovations worldwide. Returning to Stoller Hall after last year’s sell-out run, this unique and captivating show promises to be a true highlight of the festive season.

3. Experience a magical blend of music and storytelling with the Hallé on the big screen, featuring Mimi and the Mountain Dragon and Raymond Briggs’ classic The Snowman, accompanied by live performances from the Hallé Choirs. Led by Olivia Clarke, this family-friendly event promises a journey full of adventure, wonder, and beautiful music.

4. Steam into Christmas on the East Lancashire Railway’s famously festive Santa Specials. Your family will make enchanted memories to share as they take a trip through the magical Irwell Valley alongside colourful characters and surprises. 

5. Join Dorothy and her friends on a high-flying adventure in Cirque Wicked Wizard of Oz, where circus thrills meet a classic tale in a spectacular show for all ages. Attend this jaw-dropping production packed with daring aerial stunts, larger-than-life characters, and panto-style fun, all brought to life by a cast of 60 and world-class special effects.

6. Step into the frost-kissed realm of Snowstorm – Wish, where world-class figure skaters, circus artists, and breathtaking visuals come together in a magical blend of storytelling, artistry, and adrenaline. Set against a dazzling winter backdrop, this show is a celebration of light, unity, courage, and joy, a timeless tale told through ice, movement, and pure imagination.

7. Discover the ultimate indoor LEGO® playground as it transforms into a festive wonderland this Christmas with the return of Christmas Bricktacular. Enjoy rides, build zones, and 4D cinema, along with seasonal activities like crafting LEGO® gingerbread houses and snowflakes. Dance around the Christmas tree at pop-up parties with mascot friends!

8. Discover the magic of the Churnet Valley Railway's The Polar Express™ Train Ride, a popular Christmas attraction in close enough proximity to Manchester! Located near the picturesque market town of Leek and easily accessible from Manchester, Cheshire, Derbyshire, and Birmingham and offers a nostalgic escape into the past amidst breathtaking scenery. 

9. Meet up with friends and family in Tatton Park’s Stableyard for the much-loved Christmas Carols and sing-along to Christmas classics with the King Edward Musical Society Band and choir. 

10. Manchester's magical Christmas Parade, the highlight of the festive season, returns for 2025 on Sunday, 7 December. This joyful event promises music and laughter, featuring the spectacular Elf Express with VIP passenger Santa heading to the North Pole, accompanied by his team of elves.

11. Step into a world of winter folklore at Yuletide, where Tatton Park Gardens come alive at night with music, puppetry, dazzling lights, and interactive performances along the Glittering Trail. Meet whimsical new characters, enjoy live music, toast marshmallows by the fire, and make magical family memories in this unforgettable festive experience.

12. Returning for Winter 2025, get ready to experience the magic of Lanterns and Light at Chester Zoo! Walk amongst an illuminated trail of spectacular scenes and breathtaking displays that will leave you full of festivity.

13. Get together with friends and family and enjoy the Enchanted Winter Walk. Wrap up warm and enjoy the magic of Quarry Bank at twilight. With festive lighting and illuminated walkways, wander through the Upper Garden on the Enchanted Winter Walk.

14. Step into a world of festive magic as Christmas at Dunham Massey returns for 2025! Firmly positioned as one of the best Christmas events in the UK, this unmissable after-dark illuminated trail promises a breathtaking experience for all ages.

15. Let it Glow! Bring the whole family for a magical evening at RHS Garden Bridgewater. See the garden in breathtaking beauty as amazing illuminations light your way on our spectacular RHS Glow trail.

16. Get into the Christmas spirit this year and experience never-before-seen light features in the 15-acre Cheshire Woodland. Fully immerse yourself in a world of pure festive magic, with special guests Mr & Mrs Claus making an appearance this year!

17. The Land of Lights Lantern Festival returns to Gulliver's World, Warrington, this year. Get ready to journey through spectacular dreamworlds filled with giant lanterns, dazzling light installations, and magical scenes.

18. This winter, Freight Island transforms once again into a magical wonderland for the festive season. Winter Island returns bigger, brighter, and more spectacular than ever - an immersive Christmas experience filled with light, sound, storytelling, and festive fun for all ages.

19. Lightwaves Salford - presented by Quays Culture - returns for the 12th year this December with a trail of 12 colourful light art installations that will inspire visitors to explore Salford Quays and MediaCity by night. Free to attend, the popular light art festival runs from Thursday 4 December to Sunday 7 December 2025, from 4 pm to 10 pm. 

20. Bolton – Winter Hill 

If you’re up for a challenge, head to Winter Hill. The climb might leave you a little out of breath, but the views are worth every step. On a clear day, you can see right across the Northwest, and sometimes even catch a glimpse of the snowy Welsh mountains in the distance.  

21. Bury – Peel Tower / Holcombe Hill 

Peel Tower, Holcombe Moor and Ramsbottom is a local favourite, and it’s easy to see why. The path up to Peel Tower is short but rewarding, and the view from the top is stunning on a crisp winter morning. Afterwards, wander down into Ramsbottom for a well-earned hot chocolate or coffee.  

22. Manchester – Heaton Park 

You don’t have to leave the city to find a bit of winter peace. Heaton Park is lovely this time of year, with frosted trees, quiet paths, and views looking out to the city. It’s a great spot for a slow walk with family, friends, or your four-legged companion.  

23. Tameside – GM Ringway  

The GM Ringway Walking Trail runs through riversides, moorlands, and pretty market towns, making Tameside a great place to explore a stretch of the route. It’s a mix of open views and cosy corners with plenty of cafes and local pubs to stop in along the way.  

24. Oldham – Dovestone Reservoir  

Set on the edge of the Peak District, Dovestone Reservoir looks especially beautiful in winter. It’s a rather challenging walk but rewards you with scenic views on a clear day.  

25. Rochdale – Hollingworth Lake  

Hollingworth Lake is a classic spot for a winter walk. It’s a flat path with lovely views, and there’s always a good chance of spotting some wildlife along the water’s edge. When you’re done, grab a warm drink in one of the lakeside cafes.  

26. Salford – Worsley Village  

With its canal paths and timber-framed cottages, Worsley Village feels like it was made for winter. It’s calm, pretty, and full of charm – the kind of place that looks like it belongs on a Christmas card.  

27. Stockport – Bramall Hall and Park 

Bramall Hall is a hidden gem tucked away in Stockport. It’s a beautiful old manor house surrounded by parkland and perfect for a winter’s walk. After exploring its history, be sure to stop by the café for something warm and sweet.  

28. Trafford – Dunham Massey 

Few places capture the season quite like Dunham Massey. Deer wander quietly through the frosty grass and the old estate looks something out of a Christmas film. If you can, visit around dusk, it feels like you’ve stepped into another world.  

29. Wigan – Pennington Flash  

If you’re after a lakeside walk, Pennington Flash is the place to go. The lakeside paths are wide and open, and there’s always plenty of birdlife to spot. It’s one of those places that makes you instantly relax. 

30. Tatton Park – More Cheshire  

Tatton Park over in Knutsford makes for the perfect winter day out. The Japanese Garden looks something out of a painting this time of year and the changing season adds to that festive feel. It's also great for the little ones as they can run around the open paths and visit the farm.  

31. Step aboard this winter for a festive cruise like no other – where twinkling lights meet waterfront wonder, and Father Christmas himself swaps his sleigh for a spot on deck with Manchester River Cruises.

32. Experience the magic of Christmas at Cockfield’s Farm as you meet Santa, explore the festive woodland toy shop, and help the elves in their workshop. Enjoy seasonal treats, visit the Quality Street village, and join in the fun with heart-warming shows and holiday cheer for all ages.

33. The family favourite Christmas event is back! Come along and enjoy a buffet-style breakfast and get to meet Santa himself at the Hard Rock Cafe.

34. Visit Father Christmas and his elf helpers in a festive grotto at  Tatton Park Farm. Don't forget to take your photo in Santa’s sleigh and make your magical reindeer food in the Mill to take home and sprinkle around on Christmas Eve! 

35. Journey through the magical Christmas Grotto and join Mrs Claus for a Christmas story, meet Santa, snap a family photo or take a seat in Santa’s sleigh at Lancaster Park and Animal Farm. 

36. The Grotto at The Trafford Centre is making a grand return! After a magical season that captivated so many, you are invited to be part of the next enchanting journey in 2025. The magic awaits - secure your place in the wonder of The Grotto’s 2025 season now!

37. Get your festive shopping fix at The Trafford Centre, with everyone's favourite brands including Selfridges, John Lewis and Next.

38. Or, you can of course find a vast selection of exciting shops from the leading high street names such as River Island, Waterstones and Pandora to lots of smaller, stylish specialists at Manchester Arndale.  

39. Find your favourite local traders at Manchester Christmas Markets. You can expect mouth-watering international food, drinks and delicately crafted Yuletide gifts in the heart of the buzzing city.  

40. The Festive Winter Fair is back! Explore Victoria Baths and browse specially-selected stalls, selling a fantastic variety of unique and handmade artwork, jewellery, ceramics and food.

41. Experience the Magic of Christmas at Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet. Step into the enchanting Winter Village this festive season. Book a cosy Christmas hut, savour traditional German bratwurst, and warm up with mulled wine by the bar. Don’t miss the dazzling UK’s tallest Christmas tree in Northern England – the perfect backdrop for festive fun with loved ones after a day of shopping.

42. Join the London Concertante as they celebrate the festive season through the magical world of Christmas movies. This enchanting programme will include excerpts from Christmas classics such as ‘A Christmas Carol’, ‘Elf’, ‘Love Actually’ and ‘Home Alone’, as well as the animated excitement of ‘Polar Express’. 

43. The magic returns to Cathedral Gardens this winter with a stunning real ice rink at Skate Manchester. Enjoy skating by starlight under the cover of the rink’s roof, meaning you can skate in any weather and enjoy the festive atmosphere. 

44. Enjoy live music, delicious oven-baked pizzas made on-site, and seasonal hot serves while you soak up the après ski atmosphere at Bar Hütte. Complete with a cool, rustic vibe, private hüttes, and a sea of twinkling lights, this is the perfect setting for long-awaited reunions, epic parties, and memorable sing-alongs with friends.

 45. Get ready for a festive night out at The Oast House, where you will find live music, a delightful festive menu and their fairytale-like Teepee, decorated to make your evening feel magical. 

46. Be a guest in your city and embark on a gastronomic adventure with Scranchester Tours. The tour will reveal fascinating facts about Manchester's food history, touch on food science and take in some magnificent local food along the way. 

47.  The former head Gardener’s Cottage at Tatton Park is the perfect location for a festive, celebratory Afternoon Tea. Enjoy the special Christmas menu with handmade cakes and pastries, festive favourite finger sandwiches and savoury tarts. 

48. Steam into Christmas with a Christmas Dinner and enjoy a steam train journey through Lancashire's very own winter wonderland. 

49. Celebrate Christmas at the Etihad Stadium with festive Stadium Tours running from 1–24 December, giving you exclusive behind-the-scenes access. Step through the players’ tunnel to the pitch side and enjoy a dazzling light display set to Christmas carols with a City twist.

50. Experience the magic of Candlelight Concerts as they bring a multi-sensory musical journey to stunning Manchester locations. This festive edition at Concorde Conference Centre features classics like Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy from The Nutcracker and modern favourite All I Want for Christmas Is You, all under the gentle glow of candlelight. Get your tickets now for an unforgettable evening of holiday music!

51. This Christmas, the star-studded Love Actually, perhaps one of the most quotable and adored festive films around, will be presented live in concert, with a full orchestra playing the score live-to-film.