It wouldn’t feel like Christmas without the shimmering of Christmas lights. While there isn’t a Light Switch-on event, there are plenty of immersive light shows and eye-catching Christmas trails to visit over the festive period from across Greater Manchester. 

1. RHS Glow

Bring all the 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. This yearly event is becoming a classic Mancunian Christmas tradition for many, so why not explore this years impressive displays. From 27 November to 30 December 2024.  

More information here. 

2. Land of Lights Lantern Festival

Land of Lights Festival returns to Gulliver's World Warrington with ALL-NEW lanterns. This winter it's time to explore WonderWild; the magical new theme for 2024 is based on nature and animals reimagined. Journey through realms including Fantasy Forest, Ice Kingdom and Winged Wonders. Don't forget to stop by the food area to enjoy tasty treats from fabulous local food vendors. From 9 November to 5 January 2025.  

Find out more here. 

3. Magical Woodland at Christmas

Get into the Christmas spirit this year and experience never-seen-before light features, in the 15-acre enchanted Cheshire Woodland. The lights and sounds bring the woods to life allowing imaginations to run wild, making the magic of Christmas impossible to ignore. Warming cold hands on an open fire and enjoying the giant toasted marshmallows, is the perfect way to get into the Christmas Spirit with your favourite people. From November 24 to December 24 2024.  

Get more information here. 

4. Journey to Oz: The Christmas Mansion

Be swept away on a wonderful adventure through iconic scenes from the Wizard of Oz, transformed and brought to life within the grandeur of Tatton Park's historic mansion. This event is not just a visual spectacle; it's an immersive experience that promises to leave you with memories to cherish. So, grab your sparkly slippers (or your winter boots!) and join Tatton Park for a journey over the rainbow. Running from 23 November to 27 December 2024. 

Find out more here. 

5. Luminate: Arley Hall Gardens Winter Light Trail

Nestled deep within Arley Hall Estate (Famous for Peeky Blinders and a Harry Potter trail in the same woodland) awaits a spectacular, illuminated trail, full of wonder and intrigue, to delight and enthral your senses. As darkness descends, join us on our enchanting journey, as we weave a captivating light trail through the woodlands at Arley estate. Immerse yourself in our mesmerising mile long trail, with stunning lighting elements and fabulous interactive light play, all set to music. Running from 30 November to 24 December 2024.  

Get more information here. 

6. The Twilight Trail

The immersive light and sound show, running for 31 mesmerising days throughout winter 2024, will transform Mayfield Park into a twinkling, city centre escape. Step into the world of enchantment right in the heart of the city this winter with the Twilight Trail at Mayfield Park. With spectacular light displays, lantern installations and a captivating soundscape guiding you. Running from 14 November to 31 December 2024.  

Find out more here. 

7. Yuletide: A Glittering Winter Garden Adventure

This winter, Tatton Park Gardens transforms into a captivating world of folklore and enchantment with Yuletide, an immersive event perfect for all ages. Visitors will be swept into a festival-like atmosphere where traditional Yuletide stories come to life through captivating storytelling and live music. The event’s centrepiece, The Glittering Trail, features illuminated puppets and performers, bringing legendary tales to life as guests explore the park's beautiful winter landscape. Running from November 16 to December 24 2024.  

Get more information here. 

8. Lanterns and Light at Chester Zoo

Returning for Winter 2024, 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. Get ready to discover a magical trail that promises to be better than ever. The reimagined winter trail is even longer, filled with brand NEW animal puppets, and for the very first time, you can walk the trail on New Year's Day! 

Find out more information here. 

9. Christmas Light Trail at Dunham Massey

Masses of twinkling lights, magnificent installations, and seasonal music come together against the beautiful backdrop of the Dunham Massey gardens, moat and park. This unforgettable, family-friendly festive event is perfect for making memories with loved ones. Find beams of light amongst ancient trees, marvel at dancing lights on the moat, and discover beautiful installations along the winding paths of the gardens. 

Get more information here. 

10. Lightwaves 2024

This year Lightwaves Salford will feature 14 illuminated artworks along a 2km fully accessible trail around MediaCity and Salford Quays.

The mesmerizing immersive experience will include installations of different scales using light, sound, and technology with Monad as the centre piece overlooking MediaCity’s iconic Piazza.

Find out more here. 

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For more festive fun, head to our Christmas page