Our top tips for making the most of the week ahead, with brilliant things to do across the whole of Greater Manchester… For even more ideas, visit our What’s On page. 
 

1. Watch a National Theatre production at The Lowry Theatre 
 

The National Theatre’s stage adaptation of the best-selling, The Ocean at the End of the Lane, comes to The Lowry Theatre this week. This thrilling adventure of fantasy, myth and friendship, is a five-star spectacular which blends magic with memory and takes audiences on an epic journey to a childhood once forgotten and the darkness that lurks at the very edge of it. Tickets start from £17 
 

2. Explore local art at MediaCity 
 

MediaCity’s outdoor dining concept Box on the Docks is set for a busy Christmas season with the launch of the winter edition, Art Hall. Now open in a newly covered venue in the heart of the MediaCity gardens, Art Hall features an array of independent street food and a collection of local art. It adds to the long list of events and activities in Salford Quays this month.   
 

3. Enjoy a festive cocktail evening with Santa 
 

Join Manchester Selfridges this week for a festive evening of cocktails, small plates and merrymaking, joined by the big man himself, Santa Claus and his trusty elf. In partnership with Eat Well Mcr, an organisation that works to provide meals to those side-lined by poverty, the event will feature a cocktail offering from 10 Tib Street and a special appearance from drag artist Narcissa Nightshade. Tickets start from £50.  
 

4. Experience a festive fairyland at The Trafford Centre 
 

With the return of the Trafford Centre's Christmas event, Tinsel Town, guests are encouraged to enjoy a wide range of festive activities, including the return of their huge fairground, a magnificent ice show, a winter ice rink, and an amazing new festive grotto. Tinsel Town also offers up a selection of festive food and drink to help get you in the Christmas spirit. 
 

5. Rochdale’s free foodie festival returns  
 

Food lovers looking to eat, drink and enjoy free seasonal entertainment should head to The Butts in Rochdale on Saturday 17 December. A special edition of the popular Street Eat event is being held at Christmas for the first time. Street Eat will bring together some of the town’s best food and drink vendors, with delicious food and mulled wine, live entertainment, and appearances from the man himself - Father Christmas. 
 

New Opening of the week: BQ Bitesize, Manchester Craft and Design Centre 
 

From the team behind The Butcher’s Quarter on Tib Street and BQ Farm and Fish in Monton, BQ Bitesize is the latest addition to the Northern Quarter institution, Manchester Craft and Design Centre. The new artisan café serves up hot roast sandwiches, breakfasts, artisan coffees, quality wines and cheese and charcuteries.  
 

Book Now: Interflora World Cup, Manchester Central 
 

A major world cup is coming next year – but it’s not football! The world’s biggest and most prestigious floral design competition, is coming to the UK for the very first time next year, naming Manchester as its host city. Between 7-9 September 2023, Manchester Central will welcome the Interflora World Cup and for the first time ever, the event will be open to the public. The event will also feature a celebration marking Interflora’s 100th birthday so it is set to be a truly wonderful occasion. Tickets start from £28.