Christmas shows Manchester 2026
If you love visiting the theatre then there is no better time to visit than at Christmas. There are some great Christmas shows Manchester this year (2026). There are lots of different options for all ages. No matter how old your children are, you’re sure to find a Christmas show for you all to enjoy. This post is part of a series of posts on Christmas shows North West England.
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I have done my best to make sure this post is up to date and accurate but please check the organiser’s website before travelling as events may be cancelled at short notice, details might be changed and mistakes happen. I have included links to the event organisers so you can check the up to date details and terms and conditions. Most of the events need pre-booking.
If you have an event you want to be added, drop me an email at – info@northwestforkids.co.uk I add all events for free and this year I’m offering low cost “Featured events” where your event will be pinned to the top of the guide, you can include a photo and you’ll also get a dedicated Facebook post to promote just your event to my page of 18k. Email me to find out costs and potential reach of your chosen guide.
If you love finding new family days out and events in the North West then you need to follow me on Facebook or Instagram. If you use Facebook you might like to join my Family Days out North West group.
Ad – Featured event – Cinderella: A Fairytale, Bolton Octagon – Book now for 2026
When: Fri 20th November 2026 – Sat 9th January 2027
Where: Octagon Theatre, Howell Croft South, Bolton, BL1 1SB
Looking for a magical family treat this festive season?
This brilliantly reimagined version of the classic story is packed with music, magic and laughter for the whole family.
When Ella’s father remarries, her world is turned upside down. Escaping her cruel new family, she finds comfort in the woods among her bird friends. But a chance encounter with a mysterious bird-loving boy and an invitation to the Royal Ball soon set her on an unforgettable adventure.
We’re also thrilled to welcome back director Sarah Punshon following her award nominated production of The Jungle Book, which wowed Octagon audiences in 2024.
Suitable for ages 5+, but all are welcome (some scenes may be a little frightening for younger children).
Prices: Tickets from £15, with kids saving up to £8 per ticket
Book here – Cinderella
The Jolly Christmas Postman, The Lowry – Book now for 2026
When – 4th December 2026 – 3rd January 2027
Where: The Lowry, Pier 8, The Quays, Salford, M50 3AZ
Based on the award-winning children’s book by much-loved duo Janet and Allan Ahlberg, this family show sees the Jolly Postman cycling through the snow to deliver parcels and letters to familiar friends as they prepare for Christmas celebrations.
There are visits to Red Riding Hood, Humpty Dumpty, the Gingerbread Man, and not forgetting the big, bad wolf!
As the snow continues to fall, who will help the Jolly Postman get home in time for Christmas?
Live music, original songs and a sprinkling of theatre magic bring this favourite festive classic to life for all ages to enjoy.
Book here – The Jolly Christmas Postman
A Christmas Carol, The Lowry – Book now for 2026
When – 11th December 2026 – 10th January 2027
Where: The Lowry, Pier 8, The Quays, Salford, M50 3AZ
Matthew Warchus’ big-hearted, smash hit production of Charles Dickens’ immortal classic comes to Lowry following nine sell out years at The Old Vic, joyously adapted for the stage by Jack Thorne (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, His Dark Materials).
A Christmas Carol fills the auditorium to the brim with mince pies, music and merriment. A unique staging immerses the audience in London’s longest running adaptation of this beloved festive favourite.
Book here – A Christmas Carol
A Very Messy Christmas, The Lowry – Book now for 2026
When – 23rd December 2026 – 3rd January 2027
Where: The Lowry, Pier 8, The Quays, Salford, M50 3AZ
From the team who brought you Little Penguin’s First Christmas and Little Bear and the Christmas Lights; A Very Messy Christmas is a brand new sensory show for 0-3 year olds.
Eve likes everything to be calm and tidy and quiet but Christmas is loud and chaotic and cold so she doesn’t let it into her home. One day, a mysterious box arrives and a tiny bit of Christmas escapes! Despite her best efforts, Christmas has sneaked into Eve’s house and is causing mayhem but she soon realises that she likes the music and the silliness, she even likes the snow! Maybe a bit of Christmassy chaos is exactly what Eve needs.
With clowning, original music and a sprinkle of Christmas magic, this is an interactive, sensory show that is perfect for little ones!
Baby- friendly
Book here – A Very Messy Christmas
Gandey’s Snowstorm 6: A Frozen Adventure, Trafford centre – Book now for 2026
Where – Trafford Centre, Grand Hall Entrance, M17 8AA
When – 4th December 2026 – 3rd January 2027
Journey into a frozen kingdom hidden deep within the snow-covered mountains, where an enchanted princess has been trapped behind the walls of a mysterious ice castle, guarded by a powerful dragon. As darkness sweeps across the frozen land, a daring rescue mission begins in a thrilling adventure filled with courage, friendship, and spectacular surprises.
Featuring world-class ice skaters, breathtaking aerial artistry, stunning circus acts, dazzling special effects, and a magical winter soundtrack, Snowstorm 6 promises an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
With jaw-dropping performances, cinematic storytelling, and a breathtaking frozen world brought to life before your eyes, this year’s production is set to be the biggest and most spectacular Snowstorm yet.
From £11.99 per ticket
Book here – Snowstorm
Mr Popper’s Penguins, Waterside Sale – Book now for 2026
Where: 1 Waterside Plaza, Sale, Trafford, M33 7ZF
When: 30th November – 27th December 2026
Painter and decorator by day, Mr Popper spends his time dreaming of Antarctic adventures. He is astounded when one day a packing crate arrives at his home and a penguin waddles out!
Featuring catchy songs and performing penguin puppets, this delightful, action-packed musical is based on the popular book. Filled with heart, invention and plenty of penguins, it’s a perfect treat for the whole family!
Book here – Mr Popper’s Penguins
We actually saw this production in 2019. Find our review from then here – Mr Popper’s Penguins review
The totally improvised pantomime, Waterside, Sale – book now for 2026
Where: 1 Waterside Plaza, Sale, Trafford, M33 7ZF
When: 18th – 19th December 2026
Bored of the same pantomimes every year? The ComedySportz team are back this Christmas for more Totally Improvised Pantomimes! Heroes, villains, songs and silliness are guaranteed this December as the gang create brand-new pantomime adventures using audience suggestions… and a sprinkling of fairy dust. Oh yes they do!
Tickets from £6.50 -£8.50
Book here Tots – ComedySportz Improvised Panto (Tots)
Book here Juniors – ComedySportz Improvised Panto (Juniors)
A Very Merry Minifest, Z-Arts – Book now for 2026
When – 5th December 2026
Where – Z-Arts, 335 Stretford Road, Hulme, Manchester, M15 5ZA
The gig is jam packed with songs written especially to stimulate young imaginations and encourage physical activity, and some familiar festive favourites too!
Played by the brilliant Artful Playground Band, you are treated to a wide variety of musical styles ranging from Rock and Roll, to Gypsy Jazz, to Rap! Even though it’s all aimed at children, packed with educational themes and ideas, there really is something for everyone.
Suitable for ages 2- 8 years
Book here – A Very Merry Minifest
Shiny Christmas, Z-Arts – Book now for 2026
When – 11th – 30th December 2026
Where – Z-Arts, 335 Stretford Road, Hulme, Manchester, M15 5ZA
Touch, explore, and join in as all that glitters unfolds before your very eyes.
In a long-forgotten room, two people find friendship, joy and treasures that turn from ordinary to extraordinary.
Dance company Turned On Its Head makes exciting participatory theatre for early years, taking children on a creative adventure, engaging audiences and encouraging lots of Christmas family interaction. Treat your little one to some Christmas magic this December, and you’ll find a world that sparkles and dazzles at your fingertips!
Suitable for children 4 and under
Book here – Shiny Christmas
Sammy the Snowman’s Christmas Surprise, Bolton Octagon – Book now for 2026
When – 9th – 24th December 2026
Where: Octagon Theatre, Howell Croft South, Bolton, BL1 1SB
Sammy the Snowman is bored of the freezing North Pole.
He dreams of sunshine, sand, and a holiday in the sun! But when a snowman heads somewhere hot, things might get a little… melty! Will Sammy’s big adventure end in disaster, or will Christmas magic save the day?
Expect big laughs, silly songs, shouting-out, a water pistol or two, and lots of Christmas magic: all things that make the Octagon’s studio show a Christmas highlight for young audiences and their families.
Book here – Sammy the Snowman’s Christmas Surprise
The Santa Express – Lost in Lapland – Book now for 2026
When – 7th November 2026
Where – The Victoria Hall, 37 -39 Knowsley Street, Bolton, BL1 2AS
When Santa’s magical train takes a wrong turn, the journey to Christmas is thrown into chaos! Join our brave festive friends as they race through snowy forests, sparkling skies and the heart of Lapland itself to get Santa back on track before Christmas is lost forever.
Upon arrival at the venue, every child will receive a special golden ticket – and it may just help save the day! We encourage all audience members to come dressed in their Christmas PJs, festive jumpers or their very best Christmas outfits to truly join in the magic.
Book here – The Santa Express
Disney On Ice, AO Arena – Book now for 2026
When – 16th – 20th December 2026
Where – AO Arena Manchester, Victoria Station , Manchester, M3 1AR
Celebrate Disney magic at Disney On Ice presents Discover the Magic, a fast-paced, family-friendly production that follows the search for Tinker Bell through stunning worlds. Explore the colourful spirit realm of Coco with Miguel, brave the ocean with Moana, marvel at Belle’s enchanted chandelier, and sing with Elsa. Watch Stitch crash the action with mischievous surprises. Featuring spectacular ice skating, daring aerial stunts, and memorable moments from Aladdin, Toy Story, and The Little Mermaid, this all-out celebration delivers non-stop music, mischief, and memories.
Book here – Disney On Ice
A Christmas Carol, Stockport Plaza – Book now for 2026
When – 11th – 12th November 2026
Where – Stockport Plaza, Mersey Square, Stockport, SK1 1SP
Dickens Theatre Company present A Christmas Carol as part of their Revision On Tour programme, staging exciting theatre adaptations of classic English GCSE texts for both students and lovers of literature alike.
With the rest of the acting cast stuck on a train, the great Charles Dickens himself, aided by his faithful tour manager, George Dolby, takes on the daunting challenge of portraying not just Ebenezer Scrooge, but over 30 other characters in this classic festive tale! Surely it can’t be done?
Book here – A Christmas Carol
Pantomimes Manchester
If it’s a pantomime that you fancy there are loads of great one to choose from this year.
Dick Whittington, Opera House – book now for 2026
When – 5th December 2026 – 3rd January 2027
Sparkling with Manchester’s favourite pantomime traditions, this action-packed show promises laugh-out-loud comedy, plenty of boos and hisses, and lavish sets and costumes from The London Palladium.
Book here – Dick Whittington
Jack and The Beanstalk – book now for 2026
When – 4th December 2026 – 3rd January 2027
Where – Stockport Plaza, Mersey Square, Stockport, Cheshire, SK1 1SP
Fe-fi-fo-fum! Stockport’s GIANT Family Pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk starring Todd Carty (Eastenders/The Bill) as Fleshcreep, will delight audiences of all ages in this Spectacular Magical production that will provide you, your family and friends with sensational memories that will last a lifetime….Oh Yes They Will!
Book here – Jack and The Beanstalk
Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Victoria Hall Bolton – Book now for 2026
When – 14th November 2026 – 3rd January 2027
Step right up and meet Dame Betty Barnum, proud owner of Betty’s Big Top Circus, and her loveable son Silly Billy, the wannabe magician whose tricks don’t always go quite to plan! Their star performer Goldilocks keeps the crowds cheering with her golden voice, but trouble is brewing beneath the big top.
Book here – Goldilocks and the Three Bears
The Pied Piper of Hamelin, Millgate Arts Centre – book now for 2026
When – 5th December 2026 – 2nd January 2027
Where – Millgate Arts Centre, Saddleworth, OL3 5DY
When the dastardly Pied Piper arrives in Saddleworth with plans to strip away everything that makes the valley special, only Fairy Mary and her magic can stop him.
Join Rudy, a young shop keeper in Uppermill, as he falls head over heels for the girl of his dreams and helps his mum, Little Bea Poop save all the Yorkshire puddings in Saddleworth. With a cast of colourful characters, this hilarious show features show-stopping musical numbers, spectacular effects, and all the audience participation you’ve come to expect from Saddleworth’s famous pantomime!
Book – The Pied Piper of Hamelin
Sleeping Beauty, Salford Arts theatre – book now for 2026
When – 5th – 31st December 2026
Where – Salford Arts theatre, salford, M5 4BS
Get ready for a magical adventure full of laughter, music, and sparkling surprises! Join Sleeping Beauty, Prince Charming, and a host of mischievous characters as they battle the evil fairy, outwit silly sidekicks, and celebrate love, friendship, and happily-ever-afters. Don’t miss the festive fun that the whole family will enjoy!
Book here – Sleeping Beauty
Cinderella, Middleton Arena – book now for 2026
When – 26th November – 28th December 2026
Where: Middleton Arena, Lance Corporal Joel Halliwell VC Way, Middleton, Manchester M24 1AQ
Cinderella has always dreamed of leaving her dull life as a servant to meet a handsome Prince. After the announcement that Prince Charming is going to hold a royal ball, it seems she may get her wish after all, but with the Ugly Sisters around, who knows what will happen. Maybe with the help of Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother and a generous helping of fairy dust, and a glass slipper, perhaps Cinderella’s wish could come true and she will live happily ever after?
Book here – Cinderella
Jack and the Beanstalk, The Met, Bury – book now for 2026
Where – The met, Market Street, Bury, BL9 0BW
When – 5th – 28th December 2026
When Jack trades the family cow for a handful of mysterious beans, he finds himself on an unexpected journey filled with towering dangers, magical surprises, and a kingdom in need of a hero. With the help of Dame Trot and Fairy Beansprout, Jack must face the Giant and uncover the secrets hidden high above the clouds.
Can Jack outsmart the Giant? What will he discover in the land above the clouds? And will the Trot family’s luck finally change?
Book here – Jack and the Beanstalk
More Christmas events Manchester
There’s loads more festive fun to be had in Manchester this Christmas. I have more guides that you might find useful.
- Find out where to enjoy Breakfast with Santa Manchester here.
- If you’d prefer a Santa’s grotto in Manchester, find ideas here – Where to see Father Christmas Manchester.
- Find all the fantastic Christmas events Manchester here.
- Find all the Free Christmas events Manchester here.
- Find out Where to buy a real Christmas tree Manchester here.
- Find lots of New year’s eve family events Manchester here.
