Ice rinks, light trails, German markets and more
Christmas in Manchester is a BIG deal and Christmas 2024 is no different. From hosting one of the UK's biggest Christmas markets, to the giant Santa perched over Central Library, Manchester has everything you need to get into the spirit of the season.
Look, we get it - cough *Scrooge*. It's not Christmas, yet. But, if you're looking to stay ahead of the crowd (and the Christmas bookings), read on.
Winter Assembly
St. John’s Court Club
Until 24 December
With an ice rink, cosy chalets serving boozy hot chocolate, seasonal street food, festive films, and marshmallow roasting pits, Courts Club in the newly-named St John's neighbourhood will be spreading the festive joy this December. Even if you're not into the festivities, there's nowhere cosier for you to mutter 'bah humbug'
Manchester Christmas Markets
13 November - 20 December
Manchester's award-winning Christmas markets will be popping up across the city centre from 13 November. Head here to shop, snack and sip to your heart's content. And of course, Father Christmas will be returning to his lookout post in St Peter's Square.
Looking to avoid the crowds? Discover the best Indie Christmas markets near Manchester.
Cathedral Gardens
8 November 2024 - 1 January 2025
Tickets from £10
Cathedral Gardens will once again be hosting Skate Manchester's covered ice rink, meaning you can have a Christmas skate, whatever the weather. With a central location and plenty of Christmas tunes, it's the perfect place to brush up on your turns.
Bar Hütte
Great Northern and KAMPUS
13 November - 31 December
Cosy up in Bar Hütte, Manchester's Alpine hangout - now in two locations in the city centre. With karaoke hüttes, Christmas movie nights, festive photo booths, and apres-ski themed food and drink, there's plenty to enjoy. And, if you want to bring a bit of the German Alps home with you, they're hosting a series of yuletide wreath-making workshops.
Snuggle Up At The Oast House
From October 2024
Nothing signals the start of the festive season like the arrival of The Oast House teepee. Decked out with fire pits, faux fur throws, and festive fairy lights, it's your place for live music and mulled wine this winter. 'Tis the season, after all.
The Twilight Trail
17 November - 31 December
Looking for something a bit different? The Twilight Trail is an enchanting winter light show packed with immersive installations and soundscapes. It takes around half an hour to complete and you can pop into Freight Island for a drink and a bite to eat afterwards.
Yuletide: Tatton Park Gardens
24 November - 23 December
Bring the family to the wild, magical world of Tatton Park Gardens this Christmas for their traditional Yuletide celebrations. Explore an incredible illuminated trail where winter witch goddesses have captured the moon and sun, and shapeshifting snow hares play tricks on us all. And visit the heart of Yuletide, keeping warm as you dance to wild folk bands, crown your family’s ‘Lord of Misrule’, and gather around the fire for wondrous tales.
Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert Live to Film
8 December
Fan of classic Xmas movie The Muppet Christmas Carol? Then head to Bridgewater Hall for a screening with a full orchestra performing the score live on stage. Sign us up.
Christmas by Candlelight
10 December
What's Christmas without a song or two? Head to Manchester Monastery for a candle-lit Christmas concert. Packed with sing-along classics, led by a West End cast and a live band, it's the perfect place to get into the Christmas spirit.
Festive Happening
15 December
Discover your new favourite Christmas tradition. Head to Albert Hall to celebrate Christmas with the AMC Gospel Choir. Whether you've got the kids in tow or you're attending with friends, this feast of gospel Christmas classics is the perfect festive night out.
Want to loop us in on the best things happening this Christmas? Email Charleym@confidentials.com
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