Lightopia returns to Manchester this Christmas with a brand-new immersive festival

Illuminating Manchester this winter, Lightopia returns for its fourth year, bringing Christmas magic to the grounds of Heaton Park once again. This November, the festival is back with a new immersive experience that will take over the park until January.

This year’s trail follows the story of new beginnings and the circle of life. Through unseen audiovisual displays, the festival offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to be enjoyed by the whole family.

New for 2022, the organisers of the festival have announced a new ticketing system to help families with rising living costs. The new accessible pricing will see an off-peak option on selected weekdays. And for a limited time, receive an exclusive 20% off tickets by registering here.  

Beginning at the Guardian Gate, guests will be transported into a wonderland decorated by a blanket of shooting stars with the Essence of Light display. Follow the mystical path to the Christmas realm, celebrating the festive season with the gift of giant baubles, trees and presents.

Discover the meaning of hope and balance as you stroll past the vibrant Ying Yang display and Tranquility Arch, home to colourful swans and butterflies.

As you emerge from the winding path of the Mythical Forest, prepare your senses for the festival’s main event, the Phoenix. Unlike ever before, experience the heart of the festival through sound and light, with a 5-minute A/V show pushing the boundaries of music through the captivating display.

The Secret Flower Garden lights up the natural greenery of the park, with a collection of glowing fauna wrapped around the branches above and the grass below. 

Curated especially for younger guests, the Book of Rebirth unlocks the imagination with friendly animated animals and the kid zone will feature interactive musical tiles for all to interact and play with.

The adventure ends with the grand finale Lakeside Watershow; a spectacle of moving creatures and patterns projected across the lake and fountain.  

Ian Xiang, Creative Director of Lightopia, says; ‘We are delighted to share the magic of Lightopia 2022 with families in Manchester and beyond. We hope this immersive experience will bring together friends and loved ones through the power of light and sound.’

He adds; ‘Not only have we created a fantastical world, full of happiness, illumination, and charm, we hope by offering families a more affordable experience, they can escape for an evening filled with festive magic at Christmas.’ 

Lightopia will be open to the public from Thursday 24th November until Monday 2nd January. The event is closed on Christmas Day. Opening times are between 5pm to 10pm, and last entry is 8.30pm daily.

Advance tickets are priced at £17.50 for adults off-peak and £22.50 at peak times or days, from £11.00 for children off-peak and £14.50 peak, and £49.00 for families of two adults and two children off-peak and £69.00 peak. Children under three can go free at all times. Essential carers of disabled visitors can attend for free, the disabled visitor pays the normal admission fee.

20% off tickets for Lightopia 2022

Tickets on sale from Friday 16 September for Lightopia 2022 and for a limited time, you can receive an exclusive 20% off tickets by registering using the button below…