Our top tips for making the most of the week ahead, with brilliant things to do across the whole of Greater Manchester… For even more ideas, visit our What’s On page. 

Christmas decorations in Manchester

Shop local this Christmas with Harvey Nichols 

Some of the coolest products from small local businesses will be hitting the shelves this Christmas thanks to a Harvey Nichols initiative designed to support emerging talent. The luxury retailer’s, Winter Emporium, will feature a 7000 sq ft space dedicated to the carefully curated local products from some of the region’s best up-and-coming brands, some of whom have never been on the high street before! 

Enjoy a ‘Free Festive Friday’ with Tatton Park 

On Friday 2 December, Tatton Park are offering you a chance to get in the festive spirit. For one day only, visitors can enjoy free parkland entry and free admission to a Christmas shopping extravaganza inside the Mansion’s Tenants’ Hall. With many feeling the squeeze this Christmas, it’s a great way to explore the park lands free of charge and support small independent businesses in the process at the shopping extravaganza. Parklands are open Tuesday – Sunday 10 am-5 pm.  

Explore Manchester’s changing landscape through art at Central Library 

Glossop artist Jean Hobson’s exhibition of new paintings, drawings and screen prints can be seen at Manchester Central Library this week. Inspired by the extraordinary changes that have seen old buildings replaced or repurposed, the exhibition, Millworkers to Millennials, highlights Manchester’s industrial past and allows visitors to guess where some of the former buildings once stood. Prints can be purchased at the library and the exhibition runs until Saturday 17 December.  

Explore Manchester’s independent shopping scene 

Searching for that unique festive gift, that totally different outfit or that completely crazy Christmas jumper? Creativity and independence are the lifeblood of Manchester’s shopping scene and you can help support the vast array of independent traders across Manchester this Christmas. For a guide on some of the best places to visit across the city-region read here.  

Lift the curse of Jack Frost with Oldham Library 

Running from 3-24 December, Oldham Theatre Workshop presents The Night the Frost Fell at Oldham Library. Everyone knows the legend of Jack Frost, but on a dark and cold Christmas Eve the North winds wake the sleeping spirit and the whole town begins to freeze until time itself stands still. With time frozen and the frost getting thicker, can Bobbi discover how to lift the curse, melt the frost and save Christmas? Tickets start from £8.  

Focus on food: Red’s True BBQ, Manchester 

Inspired by the succulent flavours of the deep south in the USA, Red’s True BBQ are bringing their festive bottomless feast to Manchester this month.  For a feast like no other, a meat lover and meat-free menu will be on offer at the Albert Square restaurant alongside a bottomless festive cocktail offering. Come hungry for either a 90-minute or 2-hour celebration of all things BBQ.  

Book Now: Indulge in a festive three-course lunch aboard some classic locomotives 

Departing throughout December from Bury Bolton Street Station, join the East Lancashire Railway for a three-course festive lunch aboard one of their classic steam or diesel trains. On your 2-and-a-half-hour voyage through the picturesque Irwell Valley, you will receive a welcome glass of fizz, a traditional three-course festive meal and a selection of teas, coffee and homemade mince piece to top off your journey. Dates are available through December with prices starting from £54.