Trafford Centre Unveils Line up of Action-Packed Summer Activities for all the Family

Trafford Centre is inviting families to make the most of the summer holidays with its biggest programme of summer entertainment yet. From Saturday 18^th July until Monday 31^st August, the scheme welcomes back its highly anticipated Summer Fair, alongside a brand-new Cosmic Carnival Show, free community events and a uniform drive to support local families making it the ultimate day out this summer.

The Summer Fair returns

Back by popular demand, Trafford Centre's Summer Fair returns this July featuring its   best-loved beach and splash pool, bringing together thrilling fairground rides, family attractions and classic summer treats, making it the perfect day out whether you're chasing adrenaline or simply looking to soak up the atmosphere.

Open daily from 12pm–8pm between Saturday 18^th July to Monday 31^st August, the Summer Fair has become one of Greater Manchester's favourite school holiday attractions, welcoming thousands of visitors each year.

Blast off into the Cosmic Carnival Show

New for summer 2026, Trafford Centre welcomes the Cosmic Carnival Show, a spectacular programme of free live performances taking over the Orient Main Stage area twice a week throughout August.

Families can step into the magical world of the ‘Out of Time Circus’, with breathtaking aerial performances by larger-than-life characters and live vocals that transport them into the vibrant Cosmic Circus.

The fun continues with the Zero-Gravity Disco, an energetic celebration packed with chart hits, incredible dance routines, and audience participation.

After every show, children can take part in free interactive workshops, learning dance routines and trying circus-inspired skills with the performers.

Visitors can enjoy this every Wednesday and Thursday throughout August at 12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm.

Summer Passport

Families can also sign up for a free Summer Passport, via Trafford Centre's website, collecting it from Guest Services to begin their adventure. They'll then fill the passport with six stamps as they explore participating attractions and events, including NAMCO Funscape, Paradise Island Adventure Golf, Laser Quest, the Fair, ODEON and the summer Cosmic Carnival Shows while enjoying exclusive dining offers from favourites including Pizza Express, YO! Sushi, Shake Shack, Hello Oriental, Blanchflower and Chit 'n' Chaat. Once completed, passports can be returned to Guest Services for the chance to win a top prize of a £1,000 Trafford Centre Gift Card or one of two £500 Gift Cards. Winners will be contacted by Friday 11 September.

Meet your local heroes

Trafford Centre will once again host its annual Emergency Services Day on Thursday 6 August from 10am - 4pm, giving families the opportunity to celebrate and learn more about the vital work of the local emergency services.

Families will have the opportunity to meet local emergency service teams, explore emergency vehicles and learn more about the important role they play in keeping our communities safe. It's a fun, interactive day designed to educate and inspire children while celebrating the everyday heroes who serve Greater Manchester.

School Uniform Drive

Trafford Centre has partnered with EMPOWER Youth Zones to launch a back-to-school donation drive aimed at helping thousands of young people across Manchester and Salford start the new school year with the essential items they need.

From Tuesday 7 July to Sunday 16 August, customers are encouraged to donate new back-to-school essentials at Trafford Centre's Guest Services Lounge, located on Lower Regent Crescent (next to M&S). Donations will support EMPOWER Youth Zones' Future Ready campaign, helping children and young people return to school feeling confident, prepared and ready to learn.

Alongside the exciting programme of events, visitors can enjoy everything Trafford Centre has to offer, including over 200 stores, an extensive range of restaurants and cafés, plus attractions including ODEON, Laser Quest, LEGOLAND Discovery Centre and King Pins.

Whether you're looking for a fun filled family day out, somewhere to keep the kids entertained or simply a reason to get together with friends, Trafford Centre has everything you need this summer.

Simon Layton, Centre Director at Trafford Centre, said: "Summer is one of the most exciting times of year at Trafford Centre, and we're delighted to be bringing back a fantastic programme of family entertainment and experiences. From the return of our Summer Fair and the brand-new Cosmic Carnival to Emergency Services Day and exciting food pop-ups, there's plenty for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

"Whether you're visiting for a day of family fun, shopping or dining, there's even more to play with at Trafford Centre this summer, making it the perfect destination throughout the school holidays for families."

For tickets and more information, visit: https://traffordcentre.co.uk/summer