Christmas in Manchester - your guide to what’s on this festive season

The very best of what’s on in Manchester this Christmas time, from the Christmas Parade to the best festive performances

Above the Christmas market in Cathedral Square, a giant Santa light installation sits atop a sign, in lights, that reads Merry Christmas, Manchester
ITV.com

Christmas Markets in and around Manchester

The Christmas market in the gardens of Manchester Cathedral
VisitManchester.com

Find some excellent and unique Christmas presents, get a belly-full of festive food, and revel in the good cheer at the Christmas markets in Manchester this year


The Best Christmas Light Displays In And Around Manchester in 2024

A Christmas light installation in Manchester city centre in the shape of a bumblebee wearing a Santa hat
Image: Shuttestock

From Manchester city centre to Chester Zoo, there are some fantastic light displays to illuminate these dark winter nights and fill your heart with Christmas cheer!


The Grotto at the Trafford Centre

An elf gives Santa a Christmas card at The Grotto in The Trafford Centre
VisitManchester.com

The Orient, The Trafford Centre 22 Nov 2024 to 24 Dec 2024

Take part in a magical Christmas adventure, witness the unveiling of a top-secret super toy, and meet Santa Claus at The Trafford Centre!


Best Places for Ice Skating in Manchester

An outdoor ice rink, at night, with a huge Christmas tree in the middle
SkateManchester.com

Get your skates on and hit the ice (or amble very slowly and carefully around the edge of the rink…) this Christmas!


Alice in Wonderland

Shakespeare North Playhouse 22 Nov 2024 to 11 Jan 2025

It's Christmas in Wonderland, and mischief is afoot! Join Alice as she falls down the rabbit hole again...


A Christmas Carol at The Lowry

The Lowry 6 Dec 2024 to 5 Jan 2025

Hope Mill Theatre’s new production of the musical version of a Christmas Carol.


Christmas Concerts at The Bridgewater Hall

A choir, all wearing Santa hats, sing carols from the gallery in Manchester’s international concert venue The Bridgewater Hall
TheManc.com

The Bridgewater Hall 1 Dec 2024 to 23 Dec 2024

Let the music of the season fill you with festive cheer, with this special series of Christmas concerts at Manchester’s international concert venue:


The Bear by Raymond Briggs

Waterside 1 Dec 2024 to 29 Dec 2024

With dazzling puppetry, delicious music & dreamy storytelling, The Bear is a stunning experience for the whole family.


Indulge in the best dessert shops in the city

A display of assorted pastries and desserts on a wooden counter. Various donuts with colorful toppings such as sprinkles, nuts, and icing are arranged in the foreground, while decorated dessert pops on sticks are set up on a stand towards the back.

Sweet tooth?… prepare to satisfy your cravings at Manchester’s best dessert places. We have compiled a list of 5 of our favourite sweet spots where you can find amazing desserts at affordable prices too!