A drive-in pantomime, Christmas cinema and car-a-oke experience is coming to Manchester this winter

With no family pantos, large gatherings or office parties, Christmas will almost certainly look a little different this year.

But over at intu Trafford Centre, drive-in festival The Parking Lot Social is hoping to spread some Christmas cheer with a host of exciting socially-distanced events this December.

From 1st-6th December, visitors will be welcomed to a festive evening of fun entertainment from pantomime and cinema evenings to silent discos and much more.

Famous for their vast inflatable sets, the winter festival will also feature a fabulous 60ft tall rainbow coloured Christmas tree and a giant DJing Santa Claus.

Theatres may be closed, but you’ll still be able to get your annual pantomime fix with the first Parking Lot pantomime, a twist on the classic Cinderella.

Featuring all the panto elements you know and love, as well as a few ‘drive-in’ twists along the way, a troupe of nine professional actors will restore our faith in Christmas as audiences follow Cinders on her adventures, helped by the Fairy Godmother.

An on-site crew will film the action and broadcast the panto from the stage directly onto two 40 foot screens, meaning there’s not a bad seat in the house. 

 If you’re missing going out out, the ‘Big Weekender’ is the perfect opportunity to let loose and indulge in some festive fun.

Park next to friends for a jam-packed party night which includes a silent disco, live cam car-a-oke, party bingo and interactive quizzes.

There’ll also be a special adult comedy night called ‘Parking LOL’, as well as a party for little ones featuring family Christmas car-a-oke, an interactive quiz, a silent disco, and party bingo hosted by Santa Claus himself.

Film fans can catch a selection of drive-in festive favourites including Love Actually, Elf and Home Alone which will be shown on two giant screens with the sound broadcast straight to the cars. Guests will be treated to pre-movie entertainment including quizzes and DJ sets.

Plus every event will finish with a fantastic, festive firework display.

In line with government guidelines, safety is at the heart of every event and audiences will participate in the immersive, interactive shows from their own cars.

The events are completely contactless ensuring a safe and socially distant experience with strict cleaning and social distancing rules throughout.

Organisers have even committed to full ticket refunds if additional government restrictions should restrict the event from going ahead.

The Parking Lot Winter Festival will come to  Intu Trafford Centre from 1st-6th December 2020. Find out more here.