As the spring half term quickly approaches, Manchester is filled with an exciting array of kid-friendly events across it’s boroughs. From show-stopping theatre, to wandering through the local zoos, Manchester’s half term events promise the perfect blend of education and entertainment, ensuring a week filled with laughter, discovery and cherished memories for families.
1. Disney’s Aladdin at Palace Theatre
Don't miss out on Disney's enchanting Aladdin musical, an extraordinary theatrical phenomenon that has already captivated the hearts of over 14 million people globally. One lamp, three wishes and infinite possibilities… Disney's Aladdin features iconic music by Alan Menken, Howard Ashman, and Tim Rice. This exuberant production is filled with unforgettable magic, comedy and breath-taking spectacle, starring an all-star cast including RNCM-alumni Gavin Adams as Aladdin.
Disney's Aladdin is recommended for a general audience. We recommend the production for ages 6 and up. Children under the age of 3 will not be admitted into the theatre.
2. Very Hungry Caterpillar Show at The Lowry
The critically acclaimed production of The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show created by Jonathan Rockefeller features a menagerie of 75 lovable puppets. The Very Hungry Caterpillar has delighted generations of readers since it was first published in 1969 selling more than 48 million copies worldwide. The new live show will be playing at the Lowry from 28 May to 1 June.
3. The Wizarding Adventure at East Lancashire Railway
Sign up for the spellbinding school of sorcery and take a wacky whistle stop tour of the Wizard Academy as you learn to become a master of magic. This interactive experience will see you take lessons in the basics of broomsticks, practice your potions, receive instruction in incantation and learn to talk like a tawny owl. Your adventure includes a steam train ride from Bury to Rawtenstall and back, a roughly two-hour wizard experience with our madcap magicians, wizard themed activities and plenty of photo opportunities. Running on 19 and 30 May 2024, but don’t worry if you can’t make it this time, as they’re running again in August and October.
4. Festival Oldham at Oldham Town Centre
Oldham town centre’s annual outdoor arts festival celebrating culture, community and play returns. This exciting free festival will showcase the very best local, regional and national street theatre, music, dance and visual arts across a variety of spaces in the town centre. Visitors on the day will have a choice of over 50 performances and activities across a full afternoon for all the family. It’s all FREE so if you are looking for something to do with the kids, we’ve got you covered. Running from 12 pm until 4 pm on 1 June 2024.
5. See the Snow Leopards at Chester Zoo
With over 500 different animal species across 128 acres of gardens, Chester Zoo promises to be a great day out full of adventure where you’ll feel empowered and inspired to create a better world for wildlife. Come and see some of our newest and cutest arrivals, with many making their very first appearances, from the critically endangered cotton-top tamarin to the incredibly rare Snow Leopards, who are the Zoo’s newest arrivals. Join our Zoo Rangers for a jam-packed programme of talks and family-fun events to top up your knowledge of incredible animals across the globe! What’s more, we have plenty of playgrounds and activities to keep the kids (and the kids at heart) happy all day long!
6. Banner Bingo at People’s History Museum
A fun Family Friendly version of the game of Bingo to explore People's History Museum. Find different images featured in banners found throughout the museum's two main galleries and the 2024 Banner Exhibition. Visitors collect their FREE Banner Bingo sheet from the Info Desk when they arrive. There are two versions depending on the challenge you are looking for, and with younger visitors also in mind.
7. Seaside Carnival at Knowsley Safari
Join Knowsley Safari this May half-term for the return of their beloved Seaside Carnival and get ready for dazzling acrobatic performances, pier-themed game stalls, and plenty of seaside fun for the whole family! Included in the regular ticket price, step right up to our Foot Safari between 11am and 4pm daily for a thrilling Carnival experience! Test your skills at their pier game stalls, from Hook a Duck to Coconut Shy, for a delightful dose of seaside nostalgia! Keep an eye out for the towering stilt walkers adding to the fun, while food outlets serve up scrumptious food and of course, ice cream! Running from 25 May to 2 June 2024.
8. Explore the Wild West at Cockfield Farm
Saddle up partners and step into the Wild West for a thrilling family fun day at Cockfields Farm, Dust off your hats and boots and mosey on down to Cockfields Farm for good old family fun. With wild west games, a hoedown disco, marshmallow toasting and more. Join in the fun and grab your family tickets for a roaring good time. Running from 25 May to 9 June 2024.
Plant the seeds of a lifelong adventure with plants, at RHS Bridgewater, Greater Manchester this May half term at their Family Gardening Festival with Burgon & Ball. With family craft activities, garden trails, exciting entertainment and story time adventures. Explore a year of family gardening: handy tips on what to do and when, allowing everyone to get gardening together throughout the garden. Running from 25 May to 2 June. Keep in mind, Garden admission requires a RHS Membership.
10. South Manchester Food Festival at Wythenshawe Park
NEW for spring 2024, we'll be rolling up in the picturesque location of Wythenshawe Park & Gardens, featuring a dazzling array of production and fresh entertainment throughout the weekend. Envision this: Leisurely sipping a refreshing cold drink, relishing mouthwatering treats, and immersing yourself in the live entertainment. But hold on tight, because there's more excitement coming your way. With tribute acts, live chef demos, artisan markets and free kids activities. Running 18 to 19 May 2024.
11. Treetop Adventure Golf
Looking for some wild fun this May half term? Look no further than Treetop Adventure Golf! Escape the heat with our new range of iced drinks and fully air conditioned rainforest, and the little ones can get creative with free face painting from our jungle artists in The Market, available Monday 27th, Tuesday 28th and Wednesday 29th from 12-4pm. Plus, all 18 hole adventures include a shot at the Bonus 19th hole for a chance to win a free round, and free lockers and photobooths to capture your rainforest memories.
12. Rock Up Manchester
Looking for the perfect place to burn off some energy? Rock Up Manchester has got you covered! From epic climbing walls to high ropes courses, there's something for every little adventurer. Younger kiddies can enjoy our soft play areas while you kick back at our café. Bring the family to have fun, make memories, and reach new heights together!
13. Half Term fun at Rochdale Town Hall
A unique theatre production is coming to Rochdale Town Hall this half term and it’s completely free to attend. The production, Carried by the Wind, will be blowing into town on Friday 31 May for three special performances, with tickets available now. The play is part of the town hall’s offer for children, which includes opportunities to play dress up in the mayor’s parlour and the great hall and enjoy a special peregrine falcons colouring book. Young visitors can also grab an exploring pack, a ruck sack full of tools, from magnifying glasses to binoculars and coloured glass, to help them investigate the town hall. There are also interactives in many of the rooms to bring the spaces alive, particularly for younger audiences.
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