Manchester is already buzzing with festive cheer and it’s only going to get better as we step into December! There’s not many places better to embrace the Christmas spirit and with such a wide range of winter activities as our beloved Manchester. From magical light installations to world-class performances, unique shopping experiences, and family-friendly events, the city has something for everyone. Let’s dive into our top picks of what’s happening this month…
Lightwaves Festival
📍 MediaCity & Salford Quays
Lightwaves Festival is back, turning MediaCity and Salford Quays into an enchanting wonderland of light. This free, family-friendly event showcases a series of stunning light art installations created by both local and international artists. From glowing sculptures to interactive displays, the festival promises a magical evening out. Explore the quaysides at your own pace, taking in the shimmering reflections and festive atmosphere. Whether it’s a romantic stroll, family outing, or just to admire art in light form, the Lightwaves Festival is a must-see for Manchester locals or visitors this December.
📅 Thursday 5th December – Sunday 8th December
Festive Ice Skating
📍 Cathedral Gardens, Trafford Centre & Manchester Ice Rink
There’s multiple Ice Rinks around Manchester to enjoy this December, so be sure to check them out for a fun and festive experience! Skate Manchester's outdoor Ice Rink in Cathedral Gardens is back, and surrounded by festive stalls and twinkling lights in the centre of the city! There’s also the Manchester on Ice rink located in Deansgate, on Good Yard Street, nestled amongst iconic landmarks like Beetham Tower and the John Rylands Library. For a larger, all-encompassing festive experience, there’s Tinsel Town at the Trafford Centre. Home to a Winter Funland, the UK’s largest indoor fairground, with thrilling rides and carnival games to festive markets and live circus performances as well as Ice Skating. It’s the perfect day out for families, with plenty to keep both kids and adults entertained.
📅 Throughout December
The Night Market - Christmas Special
📍 Fairfield Social Club
Make a fun and festive evening out of your Christmas shopping! Looking for unique gifts and festive cheer? The Christmas special Night Market at Fairfield Social Club is the place to be. With over 50 talented artists, crafters, and small businesses, you’ll find everything from handmade crafts to one-of-a-kind treasures that make for really special Christmas gifts. Set against the backdrop of a vibrant festive atmosphere, the event also features live music with a DJ spinning some Christmas magic to keep the mood merry and bright. Don’t miss out on the incredible food offerings from Isit Kitchen and Killa Carbs, serving up hearty street food that’s perfect for a winter evening.
Après-Ski at Bar Hütte
📍 Great Northern Square
Step into a slice of the Alps at Bar Hütte, where Great Northern Square transforms into a charming après-ski village with festive magic. This festive hotspot offers cosy karaoke cabins where you can sing your heart out or private party lodges for intimate Christmas celebrations with seasonal cocktails, mulled wine, fizz, hot toddies and more! There’s even a Santa Claus club for kids with hot chocolate and the big man himself! Bar Hutte is sure to be a festive experience to remember for everyone.
📅 Throughout December
Wicked at Manchester Palace Theatre
📍 Manchester Palace Theatre
The spellbinding musical Wicked returns to Manchester for a six-week run at the Palace Theatre. This reimagining of the Wizard of Oz tells the untold story of Glinda the Good and Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, exploring their complex friendship and the events that shaped their destinies. With amazing costumes and acting, and an inspiring storyline, this critically acclaimed production has captivated audiences worldwide. Whether you’re a theatre enthusiast or new to musicals, Wicked is sure to be an unforgettable experience!
📅 December 3rd – January 12th
Manchester Christmas Parade
📍 Manchester City Centre
Bigger, brighter, and more magical than ever, the Manchester Christmas Parade is set to take over the city streets. Featuring over 400 performers, the parade brings a festive spectacle of floats, music, and festive-themed performances. Perfect for families, this vibrant event is guaranteed to excite kids and adults alike. Starting in the early afternoon, it’s a fantastic way to spend a Sunday and soak in the Christmas spirit, with plenty of opportunities to explore the city’s festive offerings afterward.
📅 Sunday 8th December
David Hockney: Bigger & Closer Exhibition
📍 Aviva Studios
Step into the world of the iconic artist David Hockney in this immersive exhibition at Aviva Studios, Factory International. Using cutting-edge digital technology, the vast space is transformed into a celebration of Hockney’s six-decade-long career. Visitors are taken on a journey through his iconic works, accompanied by a personal audio commentary from the artist himself and a bespoke score by Nico Muhly. This one-of-a-kind exhibition provides an intimate glimpse into Hockney’s creative process, offering a mix of art, innovation, and storytelling.
📅 Tuesday 10th December – Saturday 25th January
Twilight Trail
📍 Mayfield Park, Manchester
Experience Mayfield Park after dark! Manchester’s first new public park in over a century, comes alive with festive light displays, transforms the 6.5-acre park into a winter wonderland! Wander through glowing arches, illuminated sculptures, and interactive installations, with a discotheque soundtrack adding to the vibrant atmosphere, then finish the evening at Freight Island for even more festive fun. Here, you can enjoy festive food, warm drinks, and even a visit with Santa. Whether with family, friends, or a partner, the Twilight Trail is a lovely Christmas experience for everyone.
📅 Throughout December
The Pop-Up Club at Manchester Arndale
📍 Manchester Arndale
Support local businesses and discover unique gifts at The Pop-Up Club, located in Manchester Arndale. This curated shopping experience showcases independent traders offering everything from hand-painted watercolour illustrations to celestial jewellery and printed homewares. Perfect for picking up thoughtful Christmas gifts, this pop-up also celebrates Manchester-based talent, making it a fantastic way to shop sustainably and locally this holiday season.
📅 Throughout December
Christmas Barrel of Laughs at Hallé St. Peter’s
📍 Hallé St. Peter’s, Ancoats
Enjoy an evening of top-tier comedy at Christmas Barrel of Laughs, hosted in the stunning Grade II listed Hallé St. Peter’s in Ancoats. This festive comedy night features brilliant comedians, a brilliant compere, and plenty of Christmas cheer. With a cosy and intimate setting, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a night of laughter with friends, family or colleagues while soaking in the historic beauty of one of Manchester’s most iconic venues.
📅 Saturday 14th December
From dazzling lights to festive markets and world-class performances, Manchester is brimming with events to make your December 2024 unforgettable. Don’t miss the chance to soak in the city’s vibrant, festive atmosphere!