Christmas events Manchester 2026

There are loads of Christmas events Manchester with tickets on sale for 2026. Below you’ll find all the Christmas light trails, Christmas shows, free Christmas events and places to see Santa. Find more Christmas Events North West here.

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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.

I’ve done my best to add the details of all these events accurately and keep them up to date but I strongly advise you to click through and check on the organiser’s website to ensure the dates, locations, times are correct. Events maybe changed or cancelled and I will not necessarily be aware of this. Links are providers so you can confirm all details for yourself before travelling or booking. Some of these events require pre-booking so I’d recommend you do that as soon as you decide you want to in order to avoid disappointment.

Find more great Christmas events in Bolton here.

Christmas light trails in Greater Manchester

Christmas at Dunham Massey – 2026 tickets on sale now

When – 20th November 2026 to 2nd January 2027

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Christmas at Dunham Massey is established as a Christmas tradition for many in the North West. Don’t miss out as 2026’s after-dark illuminated trail promises an array of enchanting new light installations, offering a magical experience for visitors of all ages. 

From a sweeping sea of light to memorable selfie worthy moments, Christmas at Dunham Massey transforms the historic house and garden into a glowing landscape of colour, fire and festivity. This magical, accessible, and unforgettable mile-long trail bring new installations and projections and returning favourites in an experience powered by innovative technology, artistic design and distinctive seasonal music. 

The trail is approximately one mile long and we’d recommend allowing 1 to 2 hours for your visit. Food, drink and fairground rides are available onsite.

Dog-friendly trail except  27th Nov, 1st, 7th, and 30th December where only assistance dogs will be permitted. Dogs (max 2 per person) should be kept on a short leash and be well behaved. No booking is required. 

Find our review from 2025 opening night here – Christmas at Dunham Massey

Tickets from Adult Off Peak – £19.50 (£28 standard), Child (3-16 Years) Off Peak – £13 (£19 standard). Prices vary between dates and times though. Family tickets available.

Parking £8

Book your tickets here – Christmas at Dunham Massey tickets

Glow at RHS Bridgewater 2026 – Book now for 2026

When – Selected date from 26th November – 30th December 2026.

Take an enchanted walk through RHS Garden Bridgewater, marvelling at spectacular light displays along your way. Expect interactive and immersive displays as well as festive treats and late night shopping.

Cost – Members: adult from £6-£13.50, child from £4-£7.50, Non-members: adult from £9.25-£18.25, child from £5.50-£10.75

Book here – RHS Bridgewater Glow | Winter Garden Illuminations in Greater Manchester / RHS

The Twilight trail, Mayfield Park – no details yet for 2026

When: 13th November -23rd December 2025

Where: Mayfield park, Boardman Gate Entrance, Baring Street, Manchester, M1 2PY

An immersive light show trail, designed for all ages, from families, couples, groups, and everyone in between.

Find out more and book here – The Twilight Trail

Northern lights at Heaton Park – Book now for 2026

When – 19th November – 31st December 2026

Expect a 1 mile long trail with around 14 illumination zones. There will of course be plenty of food and drink stalls.

For 2026 they are launching a brand-new theme which will rewind the wonder and let you relive the magic. Journey through the decades and relive the nostalgia of Christmas magic in an unforgettable immersive experience.

Book here – Northern Lights Manchester

Early bird Adult tickets from £17, Children from £12

The Christmas Trail – no details for 2026

Santa’s Grotto in Manchester

If you’re just looking for visit Santa experiences then you need this post – where to see Father Christmas Manchester.

Santa experiences in Manchester

These events are more than a simple Santa’s grotto but they do include a visit to Father Christmas as part of a larger event.

The North Pole Experience, Reddish Vale Farm – Book now for 2026

Where: Reddish Vale Farm

When: selected dates from 29th November – 24th December 2026

Cost: Adults from £13.50 – £20, Child £39.50 – £59.50, under 1s £12

This is a full immersive tour of Father Christmas’s North Pole Headquarters. You’ll journey through the time travel portal to the Elf Workshop to build your very own Christmas Friend (Teddy Bear to take home).

Meet the cheerful North Pole elves throughout your adventure. You will explore Elf Village, including a visit to the Holly Jolly Gum Drops Sweet Shop with a festive treat. make sure you stop at Elf Bucks Express for a warming drink. You can also make reindeer dust, visit Mrs Claus’ Kitchen to decorate festive treats as well as toast marshmallows by the fireside and enjoy festive singing.

You will have a special personal visit with Father Christmas, including a magical coin gift to take to Father Christmas’s Toy Shop to choose a special present.

Free parking for all guests

1.5 hour experience.

Book here – North Pole Experience – Reddish Vale Farm

Cockfields Farm Christmas Experience – book now for 2026

When: Selected dates from 21st November – 24th December 2026.

Cost: Adults from £26.92 to £48.95, Children from £34.35 to £62.45, under 1s from £12.62 to £22.95

They’ve taken all your favourite moments from previous years and reimagined them into one seamless, immersive festive journey… packed with magic, wonder, and unforgettable family memories.

This event includes a magical train ride to the North Pole where you will meet Santa in his grotto. Wander around the elf village. You will receive a magical golden coin from Santa to exchange for a toy in Santa’s toy shop.

You’ll also stroll through the enchanted forest, watch a Christmas show and build your own bear. Don’t forget to decorate a treat with Mrs Claus, meet the reindeer and visit the North Pole post office,

Book here – Cockfields

Christmas on the farm, Lancaster Park & animal farm – book now for 2026

Where: Lancaster park, Middleton Road, Chadderton, Oldham, OL1 2TG

When: Selected dates from 5th – 24th December 2026

Cost: Adults £15.72, children £18.86, under 1 £7.34 Includes farm and grotto.

Summary: Journey through the magical grotto and meet the Grinch, write your letter to Santa, meet the big man and even have your photo taken in his sleigh. Join Mrs Claus for a story and so much more. There’ll also be animal petting and all the usual fun on the farm.

Book here – Christmas on the Farm! | Lancaster Park and Animal Farm

Storytime with Santa – Dunham Barns – book now for 2026

When: 10th & 17th December 2026

Where: Dog Farm, School Lane, Dunham Massey, Altrincham

Cost: Tickets are based on 1 Adult and 1 Child for £20 + booking fee

A group session aimed at preschool children which includes a festive story with santa and mrs claus and christmas gift to take home.

Story Time with Santa is a gentle group Santa experience created especially for preschool children and little ones who may be shy or nervous about meeting Santa.

Enjoy a relaxed festive story with Santa alongside other families in a warm, friendly and reassuring setting, without the pressure of a private Grotto visit.

Book here – Events | The Dunham Barn

Santa’s post box, The Hive, Moss Bank Park – no details yet for 2026

When: 8th November – 7th December 2025

Write your letter to Santa at home, before heading off on a winter walk to Santa’s Post Box at Moss Bank Park following our self-led trail.

Make sure you find Santa’s address on route or your letter won’t make it to Lapland!

Once you’ve posted your letter, don’t forget to collect your warming hot chocolate from our Visitor Village.

Letter packs include envelopes, a Pencil, full instructions and a trail map to help you find Santa’s address and Santa’s Post Box plus a voucher for one hot chocolate from the Visitor Village on your return.

Santa will reply to your letter (we’ve checked!)

The route is pram friendly.

£9.99 per child

Book here – Santa’s Post Box

Breakfast with Santa Manchester

Find out where you can enjoy Breakfast with Santa Manchester here.

Other festive meals in Mancheser (afternoon teas, breakfast with the Grinch etc)

As well as my guide to where to have breakfast with Santa in Manchester, I’ve listed all the other types of festive breakfasts, afternoon teas etc below.

Twilight with Santa – Dunham Barns – book now for 2026

When: 10th & 17th December 2026

Where: Dog Farm, School Lane, Dunham Massey, Altrincham

Cost: Tickets are £22.38 per person

Enjoy a festive meal followed by a special meet and greet with Santa and Mrs Claus. Sing along to Christmas songs and enjoy plenty of festive fun as you soak up the magic of Christmas after dark.

This is a relaxed group experience, perfect for families looking to enjoy a warm and sociable Christmas evening together.

Every child will also receive a small Christmas gift to take home. A lovely way to enjoy the festive atmosphere at The Dunham Barn and make special Christmas memories together.

Book here – Events | The Dunham Barn

Supper with Santa – no details yet for 2026

When: 6th – 20th December 2025

Where: The Hive at Moss Bank Park , Moss Bank Park, Bolton, BL1 7NJ

Join us for a delightful supper where you’ll savor a delicious traditional Christmas dinner including Turkey, Gammon and Nut roast, in a warm and welcoming atmosphere with free flowing squash, tea and filter coffee. No Christmas dinner is complete without traditional favourites like Christmas Pudding!  Throughout the event, children and adults alike will have the chance to meet Santa Claus, share their holiday wishes, and take memorable photos with him. Each child will also receive a gift from Santa himself! 

Child (age 2 – 14)  £14.95, Adult (age 14+)  £13.95, Babies (under age 2) Free

Book here – Supper with Santa

Kids Christmas parties across Manchester

Family Christmas party with Santa, Mecure Bolton Georgian house – book now for 2026

When: 20th December 2026, 4-8 pm

Where: Mercure Bolton Georgian House Hotel, Manchester Road Blackrod BL6 5RU

Cost: Adults £10, children £5

An evening of fun, games, laughter and dancing. Santa will make a special appearance.

Book here – Christmas Party with Santa Tickets

Christmas party at Imagination bay, no details yet for 2026

Where: Imagination Bay, Bury town centre.

When: 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 20th, 21st December 2025

Cost: £12.50 per child, £1 per adult. plus VAT

Sessions will include play in the play area, meet Santa and photo opportunities, a gift for every child, Christmas music, face painting and Christmas Crafts.

Book here – Christmas Party – Imagination Bay Adventure Play

Pyjamarama Christmas Party, Freight Island – no details yet for 2026

When: 7th December 2025

Where: Freight Island, Baring Street, Manchester

Recommended age 10 and under plus their families but all ages are welcome

Join us in your PJs – you don’t need to even get the kids dressed! 
Christmas PJs, Christmas jumpers, you can even wear some Christmas lights! 

We would love to see you and you can expect all of the usual fantastic Yuletide fun! 

Book here – Manchester Christmas pyjamarama party

Christmas shows and Pantos in Manchester

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)

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

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

Dick Whittington, Opera House, Manchester – 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

Where: The Victoria Hall, 37 -39 Knowsley Street, Bolton, BL1 2AS

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

The Snowman Tour, Stockport Town Hall – book now for 2026

When: 29th November 2026

Where: Stockport Town Hall

A magical screening of The Snowman with a professional orchestra bringing the soundtrack to life right before your eyes.

Book here – The Snowman Tour

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs – book now for 2026

When – 1st – 31st December 2026

Where – Albert Halls, Victoria Square, Bolton, BL1 1RY

Come And See The Beautiful Snow White And Her Seven Little Friends From The Enchanted Forest As They Attempt To Defeat The Evil Wicked Queen Who Is Overcome With Jealously When Her Magic Mirror Declares That Snow White Is The Fairest In All The Land. Will Snow White Meet Her Handsome Prince And Live Happily Ever After? There’s Only One Way To Find Out.

Book here – Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

Santa Live!, Albert Halls, Bolton – book now for 2026

When – 12th – 24th December 2026

Where – Albert Halls, Victoria Square, Bolton, BL1 1RY

It is Christmas Eve and Santa and his elves are finishing their final preparations for the biggest night of the year. Just when everything seems to be going to plan, disaster strikes. Rudolph has gone missing. With the clock ticking, Santa calls on his cheeky elves Sprout, Parsnip and Radish to help find him and save Christmas.

This lively one hour interactive show in the Festival Hall is perfect for the entire family and will have everyone singing, dancing and joining in the fun as the elves race to bring Rudolph home.

Book here – Santa Live!

Christmas Markets in Manchester

Manchester Christmas markets – dates for 2026

When: 6th November – 22nd December 2026

Full details here – Manchester Christmas Markets

Find more fantastic Christmas markets, big and small, across the whole of the North West here – Christmas markets North West

Other Christmas events in Manchester

Grumpy grotto at Zip World, Heaton Park – no details yet for 2026

Where: Heaton Park, Greater Manchester, Greater Manchester, England, M25 2GT

When: Selected dates from 6th – 24th December 2025

Cost: From £12 per ticket

Summary: This is a “Grump that stole Christmas” event. The sessions last 1 hour and they are suitable for everyone 3 years and older. This family-friendly Christmas quest will see you leaping, running and exploring the huge treetop bouncy nets, whilst sneaking into the Grumpy Grotto to steal back Christmas from the infamous Grump!

Book here – The Grumpy Grotto

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

Skate Manchester – book now for 2026

Where: The Cathedral Gardens, Manchester, M4 3BG

When: 6th November 2026 – 3rd January 2027

Glide through our ice path and admire the glorious Christmas tree right on the rink, surely it can’t get any more festive than that!

Rain or shine we’re open! Our covered ice rink allows you to enjoy your skating experience whatever the weather, so you can skate without the (distinct) possibility of getting soaked in a sudden, very British downpour!

Book here – Skate Manchester

Grinch meet and greet, Cockfields farm – Book now for 2026

Where: Cockfields farm,

When: 27th November 2026, 4-8pm

Cost: £19.95 early bird price for adults or children

Summary: Meet the Grinch at his Grinch Photo Lair, open all evening to capture photos with Whoville’s most famous resident! Dance to top festive hits at our Grinchmas Disco. Cuddle fuzzy friends at Cuddle Corner. Take a spin on the carousel! Mail your festive wishes at the Whoville Post Office. Warm up with delicious marshmallow and s’mores roasting kits, available to purchase.

Book here – Family grinch meet and greet manchester and north west

The World at Christmas at Lyme Park – details for 2026

When: 27th November – 24th December 2027

Discover the wonderful creations of Handmade Theatre in an immersive festive experience as the house is transformed into a Christmas voyage around the globe. Wander through beautifully decorated rooms, each inspired by diverse Christmas traditions from across the world and discover the many ways communities come together to celebrate.

Created using sustainable materials and crafted with the help of local schools, community groups, and volunteers, The World at Christmas will be an experience for everyone to enjoy.

Free (admission fees apply to none members), booking not required.

Full details here – Christmas at Lyme|National Trust

The Polar Express pyjama party, The light Stockport – no details yet for 2026

When: 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 24th December 2025

Where: The light, Bridgefield street, Stockport,

Snuggle up in your cosiest pyjamas and gather round for a special screening of The Polar Express at The Light. When you hear the whistle and the rumble of wheels, you’ll be transported on a magical journey to the North Pole to discover the true meaning of Christmas. Every child will receive their very own Golden Ticket, just like in the film, and a chocolate treat to make the adventure even sweeter.

Book here – Polar Express

Snowy’s conservation crew at SEA LIFE Manchester – no details yet for 2026

When: 22nd November 2025 – 4th January 2026.

Snowy is inviting children and their families to take part in an interactive trail through SEA LIFE Manchester as you meet some fin-tastic creatures along the way.

Book here – * Snowys conservation club

Christmas bricktacular, Legoland Discovery Centre – no details yet for 2026

When: 22nd November – 30th December 2025

Families can enjoy a packed programme of festive-themed activities alongside access to rides, LEGO build and play zones, and 4D cinema experiences. Build and decorate LEGO gingerbread houses to display for others to admire, create unique LEGO snowflakes, and rock around the LEGO Christmas tree at pop-up dance parties with mascot friends.

Young builders can take part in a festive scavenger hunt through MINILAND, spin the advent wheel to win treats, and capture magical moments at awesome photo opportunities throughout the attraction.

Full event activities available on weekends and during school holidays throughout the festive period.

Meet LEGO® Santa – Additional Experience

Selected dates: 22-23 November, 29-30 November, 6-7 December, 13-14 December, 20-24 December

Additional £6 per child

Journey to the LEGO® North Pole and meet Santa with a difference! Head into the grotto for a special experience where every child receives an awesome gift. Perfect for capturing those memorable festive moments with cameras at the ready.

Visitors can add the LEGO Grotto experience when booking their LEGOLAND Discovery Centre ticket. It’s recommended to select a grotto time at least 30 minutes after attraction entry.

Book here – * Christmas Bricktacular 2025 | LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Manchester

Winter holidays at Manchester Museum of science and industry – no details yet for 2026

When: 20th December 2025 – 4th January 2026

Discover the science behind shadows, draw faces of friends and family in the Silhouette Station and play with colourful projections in a shadow skyline. Plus, join our expert Explainers and put your mind to the test with brain-boggling illusions in our science show.

Get that festive feeling this December as you step inside the newly reopened Power Hall: The Andrew Law Gallery. 

Model railways and toy trains have been a staple under the Christmas tree for generations—visit Power Hall and see the real-life locomotives that inspired these childhood favourites. Be inspired by these iconic engines and create your own using super-sized building blocks in the Revolution Manchester gallery.

Full details here – Winter holidays | Science and Industry Museum

Bramall Hall decorated for Christmas – no details yet for 2026

When – selected dates from 20th November 2024 – 5th January 2025

Explore the Hall beautifully decorated for Christmas, with a theme inspired by the Northern Lights. Come and enjoy a cascade of colour to tickle the senses and help you find that Christmas spirit. The Hall has been decorated by a team of some 30 dedicated floral design volunteers working alongside the Bramall Hall team.

Adult £6.50, Concession £5.00

Book here – Bramall Hall General Admission (April 2024 – March 2025) – Bramall Hall – Art Tickets

Bramall Hall Christmas Elf Trail 2025 – no details yet for 2026

When: Selected dates from 27th November – 21st December 2025

The elves are back at Bramall Hall and up to their tricks again!

Bramall Hall is beautifully decorated for Christmas, which means our cheeky elves have moved in once again!

Snippet, Cranberry and Squire are just a few of our festive friends that are looking forward to seeing you.

Search the Hall and discover our cheeky elves, they are both naughty and nice.

On completion of this spotting trail you will earn yourself a festive prize.

Recommended for children age 3+

£3.00 per trail (plus general admission for accompanying adults).

Full details here – Bramall Hall Elf Trail 2025

Christmas around the campfire – no details yet for 2026

When: 13th December 2025

Where: The Hive at Moss Bank Park , Moss Bank Park, Bolton, BL1 7NJ

Come to The Hive for a Christmas campfire with marshmallow toasting, Christmas songs and natural festive crafts. We’ll have lots of Christmas fun with games, crafts and natural activities for a fun filled festive time!

Make sure you wrap up warm for the crisp winter days, and bring along your loudest singing voices for some jolly Christmas songs.

£12.50 per child

Book here – Christmas around the campfire

Ice skating at the Trafford Centre – temporary Christmas Ice Rink – no details yet for 2026

When: 22nd November 2025 – 5th January 2026

Embark on a 45 minute ice-skating adventure and glide into the festive spirit on the shimmering ice rink, surrounded by festive cheer and sparkling lights. Skate under the stars with friends and family, before warming up with a cup of hot chocolate.

Tickets for ice skating and the Christmas fairground must be purchased separately. Ice skating tickets are £18.70 for everyone 13+ and £15.40 for children for a 45-minute ice skating session.

Book here – Christmassive – The Trafford Centre

Christmas fun fair at The Trafford Centre – no details yet for 2026

When: 22nd November 2025 – 4th January 2026

Step into the magic of Christmas at this festive fun fair. Includes rides and Christmas market food and drink huts.

£2.75 per person

Book here – Christmas at the Trafford Centre

Fletcher Moss Christmas trail, Broad oak heart trail – no details yet for 2026

20th December 2025 – 5th January 2026

Follow the hand-painted hearts around Fletcher Moss using your trail sheet.

Find out more here – Broad oak heart trail

More Christmas events

Find loads of Christmas light trails North West here

Find the cheap Christmas days out Manchester here.

Find all the Christmas events Cheshire here.

You might also like to know about all the great Christmas events Lancashire too.

Find all the Free Christmas events Manchester here.

Find out Where to buy a real Christmas tree Manchester here.

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