• Manchester City Centre
  • Wednesday 18th to Saturday 21st February 2026
  • 10am – 5pm

Plan the perfect half-term day out with your guide to The Super Duper Family Festival, as Manchester city centre becomes a giant playground for families from Wednesday 18th to Saturday 21st February 2026. Running 10am–5pm each day, eight free Play Zones across the city are packed with games, crafts, films, music, sports and fun to dip in and out of at your own pace.

THE PLAY ZONES

1. The Arcade at Printworks, 10am - 5pm

Step into a retro gaming world at Printworks. Under Europe's largest digital ceiling, immerse yourself in a world of electronic arcade games that span decades of gaming history.

  • Interactive Racing Game
  • Chase the Light
  • Digital Whack a Mole
  • Catch it Reaction Ring
  • Air Hockey

2. The Nursery Rhyme Trail at Manchester Arndale, 10am - 5pm

Discover a world of imagination with The Nursery Rhyme Trail, a lively, interactive experience to get you moving, singing, solving and creating together.

  • The Dippy Training School
  • The Humpty Dumpty Parade
  • Put Humpty Back Together Again

3. The Playground at Exchange Square, 10am - 5pm

Come out to play in the pop-up school playground, inspired by BBC’s Waterloo Road.

  • Mini School Disco
  • Crafts and Activities
  • Schoolyard Games
  • Dress-Up

4. The Carnival at St Ann’s Square, 10am - 5pm

Experience a world of nostalgic fun, playful challenges, and classic fairground charm.

  • Victorian Carousel
  • Side-Show Carnival Stalls
  • Classic Fairground Games

5. The Soapbox at People's History Museum, 10am - 5pm

Be rebellious, hear your voice and stand up for what’s right at People’s History Museum this half term. 

  • Badge Making
  • Family Reading & Creativity Corner
  • Banner Bingo
  • My First Protest Song
  • African Drums for Protest
  • Protest Heroes Dress Up & Photo Booth

7. The Sports Hall at Great Northern Warehouse, 10am - 5pm

Head to the interactive sports destination packed with friendly competition, skill-building, and plenty of play. There’s something for every age and ability level.

  • The Grand Prix
  • The Pitch
  • The Ping Hub
  • The Fan Zone with The National Football Museum
  • The Skate Park
  • Super League Basketball

All events are free, however some sessions take place on specific dates and times and some require booking, please check the website listings for full information: www.superduperfamilyfestival.com.

 

More Fun Across the City

In addition to the Play Zones, enjoy even more half-term activities at Manchester’s museums, galleries, and outdoor spaces. Check out more to discover here.

Don’t forget to check out special offers at local hotels, cafes and restaurants to make the most of your visit. Check out the range of fantastic offers here.

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