Guide to Christmas Events at MediaCity & The Quays: Lightwaves, feasting and family shows

Looking for a Christmas celebration that sparkles with excitement and creativity? Discover why MediaCity and The Quays are must-visit destinations this festive season. From delicious street food brought to you by GRUB on the Docks to unmissable theatre shows and family-friendly activities at Lowry and IWM North, there's festive magic for everyone. Gather friends and family, wrap up warm, and enjoy the winter wonderland by the waterfront.

Lowry Theatre Christmas Shows: Family Favourites and Musical Magic

The Lion, Witch and Wardrobe

• Wed 03 Dec 2025 – Sun 11 Jan 2026

Step into the magical world of Narnia as the acclaimed West End production of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe arrives at the Lowry. Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter for an enchanting adventure packed with wonder, bravery and festive spirit. This is the perfect family Christmas show in Manchester to ignite imaginations and create lasting memories.

Unfortunate: The Untold Story of Ursula the Sea Witch (Over 18s Only)

• Fri 05 Dec 2025 – Sun 11 Jan 2026

The splash-hit parody musical Unfortunate: The Untold Story of Ursula the Sea Witch returns for a five-week festive run, promising plenty of outrageous laughs. This strictly adults-only show is a Christmas treat that puts a cheeky twist on a classic villain’s tale, making it a unique part of Lowry Theatre Christmas events.

The Enormous Crocodile – The Musical

• Wed 10 Dec 2025 – Sun 04 Jan 2026

Based on Roald Dahl’s beloved book, this lively musical features toe-tapping tunes, witty lyrics and playful puppetry. The Enormous Crocodile’s jungle adventure offers hilarious and heart-warming entertainment for all ages, perfect for those seeking Manchester Christmas shows for families.

Little Bear and the Christmas Lights

• Sun 28 Dec 2025 – Sun 04 Jan 2026

This interactive show Little Bear and the Christmas Lights by Colour The Clouds Theatre Company is ideal for younger children, combining puppetry, music and sensory fun. Join Little Bear’s festive adventure and help her find the perfect Christmas lights at the Lowry.

Quentin Blake and Me

• Until Sun 4 Jan 2026

A free family exhibition Quentin Blake and Me celebrating the much-loved British illustrator. Curated with Blake’s studio, the show features his iconic artwork, interactive activities, and opportunities for visitors to draw and write. Alongside the exhibition, enjoy storytelling, creative workshops, portrait drawing, and a Book Nook. A special highlight is Blake’s drawing of LS Lowry, making this a joyful summer experience for all.

Festive Feasts and Christmas Cheer

GRUB On The Docks

• Wed 03– Sat 06 Dec and Wed 10- Sat 13 Dec

GRUB, Manchester’s top street food and events collective, is joining forces with MediaCity for GRUB On The Docks: Christmas Takeover, running until 13 December. The waterfront will be transformed into a cosy festive hub, featuring a rotating line-up of street food traders like CAFF, Above and Beyond, Baby Mayhem and Wholesome Junkies, who’ll debut a MediaCity-exclusive dessert and award-winning vegan dishes. Enjoy a bespoke seasonal drinks menu at the GRUB bar, festive entertainment, a mini Christmas market, and community-led experiences, all curated in GRUB’s unique style, with a Christmas Tree Collection throughout. 

Christmas Market (Wed 03– Sat 06 Dec)

• In addition to the core food trader line up, a cosy festive market will arrive featuring  artisan makers and producers from across the North West. Expect treats, gifts and stocking fillers, plus seasonal specials from the core GRUB traders.

Apres Ski Party (Wed 10- Sat 13 Dec)

• A festive send off with DJ sets and live entertainment using the container booths. The bar levels up with a fizz bar and stout tap takeover. A lively winter weekender made for celebrations.

Unlock secrets at Spies, Lies and Deception at IWM North

• Sat 29 Nov – Mon 31 Aug 2026

In the undercover world of spies, lies and deception, nothing is what it seems at IWM North. Everyone has something to hide. Explore how daring plots of deception have changed the course of conflict, how spies have been exposed and the costs of being both the deceiver and the deceived. Young recruits can visit the “Mission Room” to embark on a top-secret exhibition trail, piecing together information to find out if they have what it takes to succeed in the world of spies. The reading age for Spies, Lies and Deception is 8+, but the exhibition is also suitable for younger children to explore with their parents and carers.

Come in and find out what it takes to survive and thrive in this hidden world.

Step into 60 years of drama at The Coronation Street Tour

Once the cast and crew head home after a week of filming, we open the doors for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Manchester’s most famous street. Join one of our expert tour guides and step in the world of Coronation Street like never before.

Get exclusive insights into the making of Coronation Street as our knowledgeable guides share behind-the-scenes stories and trivia. Discover hidden corners and meticulous set designs, where you’ll get a glimpse into the incredible craftsmanship that goes into creating the world famous television institution.

Festive Fun for Kids at Oxygen Activeplay

Get ready for the ultimate adventure at Oxygen Activeplay! Bounce like a superstar across the endless trampolines, land in a huge squishy airbag, conquer the sky-high ropes, and zoom around on the fantastic indoor Sky Rider! The Sleigh of Play is bursting with magical gifts and heaps of festive cheer – so jump in, join the fun, and make this Christmas the most exciting one ever, Sleigh of Play style!

Soak in the history and culture of MediaCity and The Quays

MediaCity and The Quays guided tour takes us alongside the banks of the mighty Manchester Ship Canal and relives the epic tale from Manchester's starring role in the Industrial Revolution to its reinvention at the heart of the UK's media and technology revolution. Discover hidden gems of information as you marvel at the stunning landmarks and listen as your guide brings the fascinating history to life. The tour takes you past many stunning landmarks such as the Lowry Arts Centre and the Imperial War Museum North, before returning to the MediaCity piazza where it all began. The walk beautifully showcases the UK's most ambitious urban regeneration project from its industrial heritage to its digital future.

With easy access to MediaCity and Salford Quays on the Bee Network, reaching all the fun is easy. Why not make Christmas extra special with a festive getaway? Book a cosy stay at  the Holiday Inn MediaCity.