Manchester in November is a very exciting time. With festive markets, world-class exhibitions, live music, fireworks, and cultural celebrations, it’s the perfect month to experience everything Manchester has to offer. Here’s your guide to what’s on in Manchester this November, from Bonfire Night spectacles to Japanese festivals, candlelit ballet and ice skating! There’s certainly no shortage of events to fill your calendar. Check out our top picks of things to do in Manchester this November.
Manchester Christmas Markets & Winter Makers Market
📍 Across City Centre
📅 From 8th November 2025
Manchester’s world-famous Christmas Markets return this November, transforming the city centre into a festive wonderland filled with sparkling lights, seasonal gifts, and a buzz of excitement. From Albert Square to Cathedral Gardens, expect over 200 stalls serving up everything from bratwursts and mulled wine to handmade gifts, ornaments, and artisan chocolates. The new layout, introduced in recent years, spreads the festivities across the city, giving visitors the chance to explore market zones in St Ann’s Square, Exchange Square, and King Street, each with its own character and charm.
Alongside the main markets, Manchester has a hidden festive gem! The Winter Makers Market at the People’s History Museum runs from Thursday 20th to Sunday 23rd November, this smaller-scale event offers a more relaxed and intimate festive experience. The museum’s breathtaking Edwardian Engine Hall is transformed into a cosy winter market filled with local makers, sustainable crafts, live jazz, mulled wine and artisan food stalls, all beneath the glow of fairy lights and the building’s glass roof.
Whether you’re in the mood for the city’s bustling Christmas Markets or fancy a quieter festive outing at the Winter Makers Market, Manchester offers something for every Christmas lover.
The Jury Experience: Diamonds, Lies, and a Dead Man
📍 The Stoller Hall
📅 Various dates throughout November 2025
Ever wondered what a Jury Duty would be like in a high-profile case? The Jury Experience: Diamonds, Lies, and a Dead Man invites you to step into the middle of a thrilling live courtroom drama, where the audience decides the verdict.
The case? Superstar Lana Tonneti’s $20 million diamond necklace has vanished, and her ex-driver stands accused of the theft. But is he really guilty? Or is there more to the story than meets the eye?
Throughout this 60-minute immersive performance, you’ll hear witness testimonies, scrutinise evidence, and make tough moral decisions that influence how the story unfolds. Every word and every clue counts as you weigh up the facts and cast your vote to determine whether justice is truly served.
Hosted at The Stoller Hall, this interactive theatre experience combines gripping storytelling with audience participation, perfect for anyone who loves a good mystery or true crime drama.
Bonfire Night & Firework Displays
📍 Various locations across Greater Manchester
📅 1–5 November 2025
Bonfire Night falls on a Wednesday this year, meaning Manchester will celebrate across two weekends with fireworks lighting up the skies from Salford to Didsbury. Each borough has something unique planned, from traditional bonfires to immersive light shows.
In Salford, head to Buile Hill Park on 1st November for a night of family-friendly entertainment, including a funfair, fire walk, light installations, and marshmallow toasting from 4pm. There are three dazzling firework displays throughout the evening: the Little Sparks show at 5:30pm, Firecracker at 6:30pm, and the Main Display at 7:30pm. Meanwhile, Prince’s Park in Irlam will host its own celebrations on the 2nd November, featuring a traditional bonfire, two fireworks displays, funfair rides, and street food.
Over in Trafford, Urmston Sports Club will host a lively event on 2nd November, complete with bars inside and out, a DJ set from Jonny Spangles, funfair rides, and hearty food and drink to keep you warm. For a more classic experience, Stretford Cricket Club’s Bonfire Night on 1st November offering traditional festivities in a cosy community setting.
If you’re looking for something a little different, The Printworks is offering a Digital Fireworks Display on 5th November, projected across Europe’s largest digital ceiling. There’ll be no bangs or smoke, just a stunning, sensory-friendly light show accompanied by storytime with Katie Thistleton and DJ sets until 8pm.
For South Manchester residents, West Didsbury & Chorlton AFC will host their annual bonfire on 2nd November, featuring food, drinks, and live entertainment from 5:30pm. With family tickets, fairground rides, and a buzzing atmosphere, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate Bonfire Night across the city.
Radio X Škoda Gig: Blossoms, Jake Bugg, Circa Waves & Hard-Fi
📍 O2 Apollo Manchester
📅 3 November 2025
Manchester has always been the beating heart of British music, so it’s only right that Radio X is celebrating its 10th anniversary here with a massive live gig at the O2 Apollo.
Taking place on Monday 3 November, the event, titled Radio X is Ten Live with Škoda, will feature headline performances from Manchester locals Blossoms, indie solo artist Jake Bugg, Liverpool indie band Circa Waves, and indie rock band Hard-Fi, with Radio X’s Sunta Templeton keeping the crowd going with DJ sets between acts.
Expect a night packed with indie anthems, big energy, and that unmistakable Manchester crowd vibe. With its rich music heritage and iconic venues, there’s no better city for Radio X’s milestone celebration.
Black in the Game Exhibition
📍 National Football Museum
📅 Throughout November 2025
Celebrating Black excellence in English football, Black in the Game is a powerful new exhibition at the National Football Museum. It explores the achievements, impact, and untold stories of African and Caribbean communities within Football, from historic pioneers to today’s Premier League trailblazers.
Co-curated with representatives from football’s Black heritage community, the exhibition features iconic objects, personal stories, and new displays shown publicly for the first time. Visitors can expect to see exhibits highlighting ground breakers across the men’s and women’s game, from grassroots to top-flight football, as well as the administrators, officials, and community figures shaping the sport behind the scenes.
It’s an inspiring and important celebration of contribution, resilience, and progress, and a must-visit for anyone passionate about football and culture.
HYPER JAPAN Manchester
📍 Manchester Central Convention Complex
📅 14–16 November 2025
For the first time ever, HYPER JAPAN, the UK’s biggest celebration of Japanese culture, is coming to Manchester. Running from Friday 14 to Sunday 16 November at Manchester Central, the event promises a vibrant mix of food, fashion, art, music, and pop culture.
Visitors can explore over 180 independent stalls at the Manchester Hyper Market, selling everything from Japanese streetwear and ceramics to anime art, collectibles, and lifestyle goods. Food lovers will be spoilt for choice with authentic Japanese street food including ramen, gyoza, yakitori, and sweet treats like mochi and taiyaki.
There will be live performances from anime and J-Pop artists, as well as creative workshops celebrating Japanese crafts and traditions. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of Evangelion, and fans can experience a special themed booth complete with exclusive merchandise and immersive displays.
Whether you’re a fan of Japanese culture or just curious to experience something new, HYPER JAPAN is set to be one of the most unique and colourful events in Manchester this year.
Candlelight: Ballet Swan Lake
📍 Manchester Cathedral
📅 Various dates in November 2025
Experience the timeless beauty of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake like never before with Candlelight Ballet at Manchester Cathedral. As the cathedral fills with the soft glow of thousands of candles, talented ballerinas bring this classic fairytale to life, accompanied by a live string ensemble performing Tchaikovsky’s breathtaking compositions.
The performance combines music, dance, and atmosphere in a way that feels intimate and captivating. Set in one of Manchester’s most stunning historic venues, this candlelit concert is perfect for a romantic evening, fans of ballet or just a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle.
Celebrate World Vegan Day
📍 Across Manchester
📅 1st November 2025
World Vegan Day returns on 1st November. Manchester has become a leading city for vegan and vegetarian dining, with an ever-growing list of restaurants serving creative and flavourful dishes. From Indo Chinese spot Bundobust, and indulgent burgers at Wholesome Junkies to fully vegan Pizza at Purezza and The Allotment with dishes from the best of the season’s harvest and local, sustainable growers, there’s plenty to explore whether you’re a full-time vegan or just looking to try something new.
The Northern Vegan Christmas Festival also arrives in November, at The Sugden Sports Centre in Garon Park. Featuring over 80 stalls packed with festive food, artisan gifts, beauty products, candles, clothing, and more. Expect everything from vegan pies and plant-based cheeses to chocolates, juices, and skincare, the perfect opportunity to discover new brands and stock up on Christmas gifts.
Manchester Art Fair
📍 Manchester Central
📅 21st–23rd November 2025
Calling all Art lovers! The Manchester Art Fair returns to Manchester Central and it’s set to be the biggest yet. Running from 21 to 23 November, this year’s fair brings together 600 UK and international artists, galleries, and studios showcasing a diverse range of painting, sculpture, photography, and more.
Now one of the UK’s most significant art fairs, it aims to make buying and collecting art accessible to everyone. Expect exclusive print drops, sculpture pavilions, workshops, and artist talks, alongside The Manchester Contemporary, a companion event supporting young galleries and emerging artists.
Whether you’re looking to start an art collection, meet new creatives, or simply be inspired, this is one of Manchester’s most anticipated cultural events.
Skate Manchester
📍 Cathedral Gardens
📅 Throughout November 2025
Round off the month with one of Manchester’s most beloved winter traditions, Skate Manchester. The fully covered open-air ice rink returns to Cathedral Gardens, offering festive fun for all ages. Glide (or stumble! Depending on your skills) around twinkling lights, enjoy music and seasonal treats, and soak up the magic of winter in the heart of the city. With its sparkling ice path and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to embrace the Christmas spirit and do something in the city you can’t do all year around!
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