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Have a merry Manchester Christmas!

From world famous Christmas Markets to ice villages and festive light trails, Manchester is the UK’s capital of Christmas and no mistake. We’re more than ready to celebrate in style for 2024.

Christmas Markets | Theatre | Christmas Parties | Gift Guide | Events 

What's on in Manchester this Christmas?

Christmas markets sausage

Manchester’s Christmas Markets have been attracting visitors to the city centre since the late ‘90s. They’ve been voted the best in Europe, and with over 300 stalls offering everything from homemade crafts and toys to gifts and garments, not to mention the obligatory whopping bratwurst sausages and mugs of steaming mulled wine, it’s easy to see why. Millions of visitors have enjoyed the markets over the last two decades and they have become one of the UK’s most popular festive events, attracting fans from around the globe.

Festive food and drink plays a big part in the city’s celebrations, of course. From special seasonal menus in the city’s restaurants to street food stalls lining the streets, local businesses go the extra mile to make Christmas special. No wonder Manchester is so popular for Christmas parties.

Manchester’s magical Christmas Parade, the heart-warming and feel-good event of the festive season, is back again for 2024 and set to delight children, families and anyone young at heart, as it makes its way through the city’s streets on Sunday 8th December 2024.

See spectacular characters, magical performances, extraordinary acts, and more as the parade weaves through our streets.

And in the true spirit of Christmas, the season also brings out the charitable side of big-hearted Mancs. From local restaurants feeding the homeless to charity appeals meaning disadvantaged children in Greater Manchester are able to wake to presents on Christmas Day, Mancunians know that Christmas is all about giving.

If all that’s not enough, the city was voted one of the best Christmas destinations for 2021 in top international magazine, Forbes – the only UK destination to make the list. We can’t say we’re surprised.

Happy Christmas, Manchester!

Manchester Christmas Lights Switch On 2021

Date: 12 November 2021

The annual Christmas Light Switch-on event is usually one of the biggest events of the year attracting thousands of people into the city centre to start the festive season with a bang.

The pandemic has meant that the usual event could not go ahead this year, but three NHS workers will have the honour of pushing the button on this year’s lights, who will be joined by some of Manchester’s front-line health and social care workers.

The small, socially distanced event will take place at Manchester Cathedral on Wednesday, 2 December at 6.45pm and will be live on BBC Radio Manchester, BBC North West Tonight and live streamed on social media for people to enjoy safely from home.

Interviews with the NHS staff chosen to switch on this year’s lights will also appear on BBC Breakfast and on social media.

Manchester cathedral fireworks
fireworks Albert Square

Manchester Christmas Markets 2024 dates and locations

It’s official! Manchester’s Christmas Markets are the best in the UK. Manchester was the first city in the UK to host dedicated Christmas markets. 26 years later, we’re still the UK’s number one.

Christmas Markets 2024 opening dates

The markets will officially be open to the public from 8th November to 22nd December 2024, with certain areas reopening after Christmas into the New Year.

Christmas Markets 2024 locations

This year sees the iconic wooden ski chalet market stalls take over King Street, St Ann’s Square, Exchange Street, New Cathedral Street, Exchange Square, Corn Exchange and Cathedral Gardens, as well as Market Street and Piccadilly Gardens.

Father Christmas will take up residence in St Peter’s Square after Remembrance Sunday.

Christmas Markets 2024 opening hours

  • All craft stalls 10 am – 8 pm
  • All bars and food stalls 11 am – 9 pm

The Christmas Markets close at 6pm on Sunday 22nd December 2024, the food and drink stalls in Cathedral Gardens alongside the ice rink will remain open until 31 December 2024

markets christmas 2024

Magical theatre in Manchester this Christmas

Cinderella
Comedy Superstar Jason Manford is BACK for a 3rd year of panto as Prince Charming! 14th December 2024 to 5th January 2025 Live at Opera House
Book Here
Come From Away
The smash hit incredible true story come to Salford this Christmas. 3rd December 2024 to 5th January 2025. Live at Lowry
Book Here
Stick Man
Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's beautiful story is back in town! Live at Lowry from 10th December 2024 to 5th January 2025
Book Here
A Christmas Carol
The classic Dickens story comes to life with true broadway spectacle in this Musical version from 6th December 2024 to 5th January 2025. Live at Lowry
Book Here
Disney On Ice
Road Trip Adventures! Live at AO Arena from 11th to 15th December 2024
Book Here
Miracle on 34th Street
Based on the timeless story; will you believe in Santa? Live from 6th to 31st Dec 2024 at HOME Mcr
Book Here
Family Fun Day: Stick Man
Grab your Christmas jumper for a day of festive family fun! At Royal Northern College of Music on15th December 2024
Book Here
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Cinderella

Comedy Superstar Jason Manford is BACK for a 3rd year of panto at the Opera House as Prince Charming! Jason is joined by Manchester panto favourite Ben Nickless, who returns for another year of fun as the hilarious Buttons, alongside star of stage and screen Myra DuBois back by popular demand, this year as Cinderella’s Wicked Stepmother.

Join Cinders as she goes from rags to riches, outwits her very wicked sisters and meets her Prince Charming.

Live at Opera House Manchester from 14th December 2024 to 5th January 2025

Book Here
come from away - the lowry

Come From Away

This smash hit show shares the incredible real-life story of the 7,000 air passengers from all over the world who were grounded in Canada during the wake of 9/11, and the small Newfoundland community that invited these ‘come from aways’ into their lives with open hearts.

Experience this joyous story and soaring music as spirited locals and global passengers come together to forge friendships that will stay with them forever.

Live at Lowry from 3rd December 2024 to 5th January 2025

Book Here
stick man lowry

Stick Man

Touching, funny and utterly original, Freckle Productions’ delightful adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Stick Man is back in town!

This award-winning production, from the team behind Zog and Zog and the Flying Doctors, features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves.

Live at Lowry from 10th December 2024 to 5th January 2025

Book Here

A Christmas Carol

The classic Dickens story comes to life with true broadway spectacle in this Musical version, breathing fantastic new life into the classic tale of A Christmas Carol.

Claire Moore, whose previous credits include The Phantom of the Opera, Miss Saigon, Les Misérables, Oliver!, The King and I, The Great British Bake Off Musical and Calendar Girls, will take on the lead role of Scrooge in the production. 

Scrooge believes that personal wealth is far more valuable than the happiness and comfort of others. With an infuriated “Bah! Humbug!”, Scrooge is visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve which lead’s Scrooge on a journey through the Past, Present and Future.

Live at Lowry from 6th December 2024 to 5th January 2025

Book Here
disney on ice

Disney On Ice

Presents Road Trip Adventures

Grab your mouse ears and get ready as Disney On Ice presents Road Trip Adventures skates back into the UK, whisking families away on an immersive getaway full of magical participatory moments.

Featuring new and classic tales, get ready to enter the enchanting Disney Kingdom as this multi-generational experience skates into an arena near you, with world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics and up-close character interactions.

Hit the road with Mickey Mouse and his pals for a high-octane ride in Disney On Ice presents Road Trip Adventures, experiencing fantastic Disney and Pixar.

Live at AO Arena from 11th to 15th December 2024

Book Here

Miracle on 34th Street

A major New York department store is on the brink of collapse and their upcoming Christmas sale has to be a success. When their Santa quits at the last minute they’re left with a kindhearted stranger who is convinced he’s the real deal to save the day.

Featuring songs including It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas, don’t miss HOME’s spectacular new show filled with joy this festive season.

Based on the 20th Century Fox Picture Story by Valentine Davies. Screenplay by George Seaton. Presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International.

Live at HOME Mcr from 6th to 31st Dec 2024

Book Here
stick man - RNCM

RNCM Family Day

The annual RNCM Christmas Family Day welcomes families and children of all ages to enjoy creative activities, interactive workshops, and musical treats ahead of a film screening with live accompaniment. This year they present Magic Light Pictures’ Stick Man with a live orchestral accompaniment as our feature film.

You can book tickets to either a morning or afternoon session; all ticket holders will be contacted nearer the event to sign-up for interactive workshops.

There will also be creative activities between sessions, such as face painting and crafting.

Live at Royal Northern College of Music on 15th December 2024

Book Here

4 December 2021 - 2 January 2022

The Original Silcock's Winter Wonderland Manchester is back!

The festive magic returns to Manchester with Silcock’s Winter Wonderland Manchester from 4th December 2021 to 2nd January 2022, the UK’s largest indoor Christmas theme park sponsored by Boohoo and BoohooMAN, returns to EventCity next to the Trafford Centre.

Book now

Where to have your party this Christmas

We’ve chosen a diverse selection of venues, all of which are taking Christmas bookings now. So whether you’re looking for an intimate dinner, a large company affair, or something in between, keep reading because we’ve got you covered.

Manchester235 Christmas

Manchester 235

Put a spin on your Christmas party by choosing Manchester235‘s Events Suite for an unforgettable celebration. This is the package to bet on for an all-in-one experience with festive food and live entertainment that will have you dancing the night away.

Parties include:

  • Arrival glass of bubbles
  • Delicious three-course festive dinner
  • Live entertainment
  • DJ and dancing in the Vega Lounge until late
  • Free bet

Looking for something private? Exclusive hire of the sparkling, self-contained suite is available throughout November and December with no room-hire fee. Book by 31st Sept to receive a 10% discount on exclusive bookings.

  • Prices start at £55 per person
  • Selected dates available
Click here

The Lowry Hotel

Experience an enchanting evening like no other when you book one of their exclusive party nights.

The Lowry Hotel’s party nights are famous for great food, service and atmosphere. Key dates are available for Christmas private and shared party nights which includes a festive feast, a DJ, festive crackers, amazing saxophonist performances and novelties for The Lowry Hotel’s wonderful Christmas.

Enjoy a drink on arrival followed by a decadent and festive three course meal followed by further refreshments and dancing till 1am.

If you are looking for a more exclusive event, they have a variety of function spaces available.

  • Prices start at £80 per person 
  • Non-refundable deposit of £25 per person
Click here

Fenix Restaurant & Bar

Early Christmas bookings are now open at Fenix Restaurant & Bar

Escape Manchester’s winter and be transported to the mystical Grecian isles, through a Greek-Mediterranean dining experience like no other. Become immersed in ancient culture and mythical tales of old.

Explore Christmas sharing-concept menus, curated by the talented Greek duo, Executive Chef Ippokratis and Head Chef Zisis. They will guide you on a journey of Greek culinary discovery with dishes inspired by their own past Christmas celebrations, featuring the flavours and traditions they cherish.

To book contact the  team directly on 0161 646 0321 or email [email protected] including group dining of 8 and above, large parties or full venue fire enquiries during the Christmas period.

Click here

Giovanni's

As Giovanni’s celebrate 40 years, they are reminded of the warmth and joy of christmases in italy.

Over the years the restaurant has become a place for creating memories.

Indulge in a specially crafted three-course menu, designed to reflect the flavours and heritage of and Italian Christmas.

  • Three-course Christmas menu priced at £40 per person
Click here

James Martin Manchester

Celebrate the season of joy and togetherness at James Martin Manchester with delightful festive dining options!

Embrace the festive spirit and create cherished memories as you relish special festive dishes.

Experience the magic of the holidays at James Martin Manchester, where delicious food and warm camaraderie blend to make this season unforgettable.

  • Festive Dining is available Wednesday to Saturday for £55 per person
Click here

TATTU Restaurant & Bar

Celebrate Christmas and New Year at Tattu Restaurant and Bar.

Taking inspiration from the Northernmost provinces in China where snow-capped mountains and bright stars scatter the horizon, Tattu embraces The Great Snow this winter; a celebrated moment in the Chinese Calendar symbolising royalty, dignity, and purity.

With elevated modern Chinese dishes, artfully curated limited-edition cocktails to showstopping snow-scaped desserts, we’ll make sure that each moment is truly memorable.

This winter Tattu is designed to entertain all the senses.

Click here

Hyatt Regency Hotel

Experience the ultimate festive gathering at Hyatt Manchester.

Secure your spot for your festive celebration on exclusive Private Events Floor. Revel in the festive atmosphere whilst enjoying great food and service.

  • STAR £45 per person

Start the party with a festive arrival drink, then enjoy a three-course festive banquet with coffee and mince pies in a private room complete with festive decorations.

  • COMET £55 per person

Elevate your festivities with all the perks of the Star Package, plus a DJ and Dancefloor.

Looking for something different? Explore private party options on the 18th floor, with packages starting at £50 per person.

Click here

Lowry

Celebrate Christmas at the best party in town thanks to the Lowry!

Start the night with a sparkling reception drink before making your way into our beautifully dressed party spaces.

  • Book a Thursday party night and receive two FREE bottles of wine on every table you book.

Our fantastic magicians will perform some spectacular magic tricks at your table before a delicious three course meal is served. After dinner, dance the night away into the early hours with our live singer and DJ.

PARTY INCLUDES

  • Arrival drink
  • Delicious 3 course meal
  • Incredible table magicians
  • Live entertainment from their popular singers
  • DJ playing Christmas classics and dance floor hits
  • Party bar
Click here

Places to visit this Christmas

Christmas at Heaton Park

Christmas at Heaton Park has everything you need for an unforgettable time with friends and family.

Discover colour-changing orbs of light stretching out into the distance, larger-than-life flowers and neon strings that reach high into the sky. Wander through a laser garden filled with thousands of tiny beams of light and into a giant twinkling tunnel that surrounds you with sparkle. Immerse yourself in the tantalising world of thrills, spills and the sweetest of treats at the fairground village.

Grab a seasonal snack from one of the hand-picked street food vendors who bring an indulgent twist to the menu on offer. Complete your walk under the stars with a perfectly festive *spiced winter warmer, *hot chocolate or *toasted marshmallow and share it with someone special.

  • Open 1 – 31 Dec 2023
  •  Closed on certain dates; check website for details.
  • Tickets from: £15 Adults, £10 Children
Click here

Glow at RHS Gardens Bridgewater

Enchanting festive light show Glow returns to RHS Bridgewater, Wednesday to Saturday evenings from 15 November to 30 December and tickets are selling fast.

Lighting experts SLX have created a glittering new trail, illuminating the garden’s best-loved features on a magical winter walk.

There are also two exciting new interactive commissions for 2023.
Kaleider’s Twist and Shine is a playful installation of giant, interactive light sculptures. Made out of interconnected triangular prisms, visitors can twist each glowing sculpture into thousands of different shapes and create their own shining work of art.

  • Open 15 Nov – 30 Dec 2023
  • Ticket prices:
    • RHS Members: Adult £8.95; Child £4.45
    • Non Members: Adult £14.95; Child £7.95
Click here

Trafford Centre

The world-renowned shopping and leisure destination where you’ll always find must-have brands, high street favourites, delicious food, and exciting leisure all under one spectacular roof.

Click here
Corn Exchange, Manchester.

Corn Exchange

Home to a mouthwatering mix of restaurants and activity in the heart of the city centre.

Offering an eclectic selection of restaurants, with a menu for every taste and an exciting array of leisure activities to keep you captivated from brunch to cocktails.

Click here

Manchester Arndale

We’re here to help when it comes to Christmas, Be Inspired to try something different.

Whether you’re looking for gifts for the whole family, fabulous food to serve at home, or something to keep the kids happy on your shopping trip – you’ll find all the information you need on the website.

Click here

Printworks

The number one spot in the heart of Manchester for days out with the kids, nights out with your mates and everything in between.

With 14 bars and restaurants, leisure activities for every age and one of the largest IMAX screens in Europe, Printworks has it all.

Click here

The Royal Exchange

Discover an enticing and distinctive shopping experience, right at the heart of the city. Within one of Manchester’s most iconic buildings, you’ll find some of the world’s favourite high-street brands, chic independent stores and luxury boutiques.

Click here

Great Northern

Great Northern is perfectly positioned in the heart of the city centre as the perfect place to eat, drink, meet and play.

Our Grade II listed warehouse, public square and the longest Victorian terrace in Europe all fit together to create a must-visit destination in the city centre.

Click here

Christmas Gift Guide

Come From Away

Lowry - Theatre & Show Tickets

The Lowry is a world-class arts centre in the heart of Salford Quays. With a range of shows throughout the year from musicals and stand-up comedy to heartwarming stories and children’s books come to life, there is something for the whole family to enjoy.  Give the gift of tickets this Christmas and make somebody’s year.

  • Come From Away: Dec 2024 – Jan 2025
  •  An Inspector Calls: Jan 2025
  • Acosta Danza Nutcracker in Havana: Jan 2025
  • The Shark is Broken: Feb 2025
Shop now
Wicked Palace Theatre

Palace Theatre - Theatre & Show Tickets

Manchester’s Palace Theatre has been one of the city’s premier venues since 1981 and continues to deliver groundbreaking and record-breaking performances year after year. The gift of award-winning and exclusive performances is something that will never be forgotten.

  • Wicked: Dec 2024 – Jan 2025
  •  Horrible Histories: Feb 2025
  • Chitty Chitty Bang Bang: Mar 2025
  • Mary Poppins: Apr – May 2025
Shop now
corn exchange

Corn Exchange Manchester

From gift cards and hampers to sweet treats and champers!

When you think of the Corn Exchange, you don’t automatically think Christmas Shopping but they can make life a lot easier for you!

As well as visiting the restaurants and activities to eat drink and be merry, you can also tick a few things off your shopping list while you are at it.

They have some fantastic gift options that you can pick up on your next visit, which means you have more time to treat yourself to some christmassy cocktails or even some festive feasting!

Shop now

The Lowry Theatre Memberships

Give 12 months of entertainment at the Lowry with a membership. Get exclusive priority ticket access, 2-4-1 tickets and additional discounts online. The gift that gives all year round for just £40

Shop now

Gift vouchers to Atlas Bar and their range of gins

From £10.00

Shop now

Gift vouchers for every experience at The Lowry Hotel

From £25.00

Shop now

Glengoyne distillery Gift Voucher

From £90.00

Shop now

Gift vouchers from Hilton Manchester Deansgate Hotel

From £20.00

Shop now

Gift vouchers for La Bandera

From £25.00

Shop now

Glengoyne Whisky gift sets

From £28.00

Shop now

Magical Manchester events this Christmas

Today

Featured Featured

The Christmas Trail

Embark on a magical journey in to a twinkling escape with festive food and drink, and spectacular activities for all ages.

Elf The Musical

Palace Theatre 97 Oxford Street, Manchester, United Kingdom

Based on the cherished 2003 New Line Cinema hit, Elf features songs by Tony Award nominees Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin, with a book by Tony Award winners Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin.

From £15
Featured Featured Event Series The Grotto

The Grotto

Trafford Centre Manchester, United Kingdom

Step into the immersive wonderland of The Grotto at the Trafford Centre this Christmas

From £7.50

The Jungle Book

Octagon Theatre Howell Croft South, Bolton, BL1 1SB, United Kingdom

A wild & wonderful adventure for Christmas 2024

From £15

Featured Featured

Come From Away

Lowry Pier 8, The Quays, Salford, Manchester, United Kingdom

Winner of four Olivier Awards including Best New Musical in London and the Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical on Broadway

From £22.50
Featured Featured

Miracle on 34th Street

HOME 2 Tony Wilson Place, Manchester, United Kingdom

Join HOME for a festive musical this Christmas!

From £25
Featured Featured Event Series A Christmas Carol

A Christmas Carol

Lowry Pier 8, The Quays, Salford, Manchester, United Kingdom

Hope Mill Theatre is to stage a new production of the magical musical version of A Christmas Carol at The Lowry, Salford for the 2024/25 festive season

From £27.50
More events

News about Christmas in Manchester

Read more news

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