Quayside, based in MediaCity, is celebrating the countdown to Christmas with an array of festive activities to enjoy throughout December including a series of craft workshops, live music, movie screenings and dining experiences.

To kick start the festivities, Christmas shoppers can pick up a gift for loved ones at Quayside’s Makers Markets. Taking place this weekend and next, the markets combine some of Manchester’s finest award-winning street food vendors, artisan bakers and an abundance of crafters.

For those looking to add a personal touch to their gifts this year, local artists and makers from Flock & Gaggle will be hosting Christmas crafty workshops inside Quayside on three consecutive Saturdays in December. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a beginner, there will be a range of workshops including festive decoration making and the opportunity to produce a beautiful, handcrafted gift for a loved one.

Throughout December, families can enjoy a range of events and activities at Kargo.Mkt with something suitable for all ages, including a stellar DJ line up which will take care of the adult party-goers week on week.

Shoppers can enjoy incredible discounts at Quayside’s top outlets including M&S Outlet and Next Outlet, where they can save up to 70% off on a wide range of gifts! For stylish seasonal wear, Crew Clothing offers a fantastic selection of wardrobe staples, while The Fragrance Shop is perfect for finding gift sets and fragrances at great prices.

For a break in between shopping, Central Bay has a tasty line-up of dining options. Inside the largest independent food hall in the north, Central 11 is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for an evening of gin tasting or to even try your hand at gin making. Kargo.MKT is the ideal spot for hosting a Christmas party with its fitting table layout and festive menu that’s sure to impress. Or if you're in the mood for something different, Unaggi offers a chic dining experience with exceptional Asian-inspired dishes. Meanwhile, Turtle Bay provides a fun Caribbean-themed atmosphere, perfect for Christmas celebrations with delicious cocktails and festive feasts.

Suitable for the whole family, Vue Cinema offers a range of screenings with the latest must-see films, perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. Families can enjoy the heartwarming adventure of Paddington in Peru, get in on the Wicked action or transport back in time with Gladiator.

The full line-up of activity includes:

Merry Makers Craft Workshops
December 7th – Christmas Candle Painting
December 14th – Festive Bauble Creations
December 21st – Christmas Coaster Gifts 

16 people per session / 8 sessions = 128 per day

Session timings: 12/12.30/1/1.30/2/2.30/3/3.30

Live Festive Music
December 7th & 21st – Elf on a Sax
December 14th – Gospel Choir

Makers Markets
Saturday 14th – Sunday 15th December
Saturday 21st – Sunday 22nd December

Weekend DJ Sets at Kargo MKT
6pm - late
Kargo MKT, Central Bay
Free entry, no booking necessary

Get ready for the weekend at Kargo MKT with a whole host of weekly sets from some of Manchester’s hottest DJs, including Rich James, Ande Rich and Ade Holt.

DJ Rich James
Friday 13th December, Friday 20th December, Friday 27th December

DJ Ande Rich
Saturday 21st December

DJ Annie H
Saturday 14th December, Tuesday 31st December (NYE set)

Children’s Entertainment and Activities

FREE Mini disco with Mickey Mouse
Saturday 14th December, 10am - 12:00pm
Kargo.Mkt, Central Bay, Unit 32 Quayside Media City Salford M50 3AG

An enchanting morning filled with music, dancing, and magical moments with Rapunzel from Disney's beloved film, "Tangled".

Free tickets are available here (only children need a ticket).

Kids' Mini Plant Pot Painting Workshop
Sunday 15th December, 10am - 12pm
Kargo.Mkt, Central Bay, Unit 32 Quayside Media City Salford M50 3AG

Kids will have a blast designing and decorating their own mini plant pots using bright paints and fun patterns. Ideal for all ages.

Tickets from £2, available here (only children need a ticket).

Christmas Jewellery making workshop - 7+
Sunday 15th December, 11pm - 4pm
Kargo.Mkt, Central Bay, Unit 32 Quayside Media City Salford M50 3AG

Popular Jewellery brand Cherrybyny is coming to Salford Quays this festive season. Guided by experts, guests will be able to create their own special Christmas Jewellery from scratch.

Tickets from £36, available here.

FREE Mini disco with the Snow Queen and Spider-Dude
Saturday 21st December, 10am - 12pm
Kargo.Mkt, Central Bay, Unit 32 Quayside Media City Salford M50 3AG

Families and children can all let their hair down at this FREE Mini Disco with the Snow Queen, with a Special Visit from Spider-Dude!

Free tickets are available here (only children need a ticket).

FREE Kids NYE party
Monday 30th December, 10am - 12pm
Kargo.Mkt, Central Bay, Unit 32 Quayside Media City Salford M50 3AG

Families can expect a dazzling party with hats and magical star wands, perfect for celebrating the big night.

Free tickets are available here (only children need a ticket).

Our kids social NYE family party 
Tuesday 31st December, 10am - 12pm
Kargo.Mkt, Central Bay, Unit 32 Quayside Media City Salford M50 3AG

With Our Kids Social’s legendary silent disco headsets playing the kids pop channel and Queens of disco Helen spinning the tunes on the dance floor, this family-friendly bash promises serious good time morning vibes.

Tickets from £10, available here (everyone needs a ticker, pre-walkers go free).