Primary Times Greater Manchester - Winter 2025

Greater Manchester

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Saturday 15th November, 9.30am-12 noon Thursday 7th May 2026, 4:30-7pm

mgs_1515 The Manchester Grammar School

The magical season is upon us!

The lead up to Christmas is such a special time of year and there are so many lovely experiences to share together as a family.

From events like light trails and festive train rides to ice skating and visits to Father Christmas himself, there are lots of trips that can be planned from our feature starting on page six. Plus, as the nights draw in, we can enjoy cosy nights at home in front of the tree lights too – a Christmas jigsaw puzzle is one of my family traditions that the children look forward to!

On pages 12 and 13 we have a roundup of fantastic shows coming up on stage and on screen, including several pantomimes in the area, and the one and only Disney on Ice is returning too!

Wishing all our schools and families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, from all of us at Primary Times Manchester, and we look forward to bringing you more news and events in 2026!

04 LOCAL NEWS

The latest news from in and around Manchester

06 FEEL FESTIVE

Lots of seasonal events and family experiences on offer

12

SEASONAL SHOWS

A selection of family shows and pantomimes

14 WOW

What’s on Where! A variety of places to visit this winter

18 BOX OFFICE

Theatre and cinema options for the coming months

Local NEWS

A round up of news from across the county, including news from schools in Manchester, magical adventures for under eights and we even have Horrible Histories coming to the stage for the first time next year!

Step into Adventures in Wonderland at Z-arts, Manchester

A magical interactive play experience for families with children aged 1-8! Journey through Lewis Carroll’s classic world, follow the White Rabbit, play croquet with flamingos, crawl through tunnels, get lost in a card maze, and join the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. Perfect for a fun family day out full of imagination and adventure!

Tickets: £12 per adult/child, under 1s free, family of four £40, and M15 Residents & Bright Sparks Members receive 20% off. After your Wonderland Adventure you can stay and explore Z-arts, enjoy tasty treats in Z-café, and head to the Children’s Library. Book now – tickets sell fast! W: www.z-arts.org

Find out what Manchester High School for Girls can offer

Visit “one of the happiest and most effervescent schools [Good Schools Guide] have visited” – Manchester High School for Girls’ Preparatory School.

The Whole School Open Morning on Saturday 15th November is a chance to explore and experience Preparatory life. Tour the school with a Year 6 ambassador and hear from the Head of Preparatory, who will share more about their ethos, curriculum, and opportunities. Pupils can join classroom experiences, with KS2 pupils able to enjoy interactive lessons and Years 1 and 2 can take part in fun tabletop activities. This is a wonderful opportunity to discover an inspiring community. Book your place at www.manchesterhigh.co.uk or call 01612 240447.

Horrible Histories – The Concert at Opera House Manchester

Friday 6th – Sunday 8th February 2026

For the very first time, your favourite songs and actors from the award-winning Horrible Histories TV series will be appearing live on stage in Manchester!

When William Shakespeare is asked to create the greatest show on earth, he has no idea how much trouble he’ll get from monstrous monarchs like King Henry VIII, Queen Elizabeth I and Queen Victoria! Things hot up when Death appears – and now Boudica and Cleopatra want to take over!

Featuring a live band, led by the Horrible Histories song master Richie Webb, this is one show your family won’t want to miss! See you at Opera House Manchester from 6th to 8th February for a sing-along sensation! Book now via www.atgtickets.com/manchester

The Manchester Grammar pupil selected for the British Sailing Talent Academy Programme

Congratulations to year 10 pupil Jasper from The Manchester Grammar School, who has been selected to join the iQFOiL Performance Development Talent Academy – part of the British Sailing Talent Academy Programme, which represents a key stage of the British Sailing Pathway towards elite and Olympic-level competition.

Jasper is one of only four young athletes in the North-West region to be chosen for this prestigious programme – a testament to his commitment, talent, and potential within the sport.

The iQFOiL class, the new Olympic windsurfing discipline, showcases exceptional speed, technical skill, and tactical awareness. Jasper’s selection places him among the most promising young windsurfers in the country, training under the guidance of British Sailing coaches and alongside other high-performing athletes working towards national and international success. This is an outstanding achievement for Jasper, who has been windsurfing for four years and training in iQFOiL for just one. His dedication and determination have earned him a place on the national pathway – an important step towards potential Team GB representation in the future. W: www.mgs.org

Feel FESTIVE

The build up to Christmas is such a magical time of year! From visits to Father Christmas to light trails, family adventures, shopping trips and cosy nights in, we have lots of ideas of how you can feel festive this season.

Manchester: the number one Christmas city

A day out like no other awaits you in Manchester city centre this Christmas. On Sunday 7th December, the city’s free Christmas Parade is back, bigger and better than ever. A line-up of spectacular characters, magical performances, and extraordinary acts will capture the imaginations of youngsters and delight the whole family. From 7th November to 22nd December, explore the UK’s best Christmas Markets, with hundreds of stalls across the city centre. Plus, enjoy a huge Ferris wheel and other fairground-style attractions in Albert Square. In Cathedral Gardens, Skate Manchester’s huge ice rink will offer a fun-filled ice skating experience from 25th October to 4th January. Find out more at www.manchester.gov.uk/christmas

Step into Christmas with a Magical Santa Cruise

Climb aboard this festive family cruise from Salford Quays and set sail into the heart of Christmas magic. Little ones will enjoy juice and snacks before meeting Father Christmas in his floating grotto, where each child receives a special gift. Grown-ups can relax with a warming mulled wine and mince pie as the city glides by in all its wintry charm. Perfect for primary-aged children, this cruise is a cosy, joyful way to kick off the festive season! Spaces fill fast – book now at www.manchesterrivercruises.com

A magical family Christmas at Tatton Park

This festive season, Tatton Park invites families to step into a storybook adventure! Explore the mansion’s Once Upon a Christmas with tales like The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol, brought to life with lights, music, and costumed characters (22nd November to 31st December). Wander the Yuletide Garden trail (from 15th November to 23rd December) with live performances, marshmallow toasting, and enchanting folklore. At the farm, meet Father Christmas, enjoy crafts, festive treats, and a special gift for every child (22nd November to 24th December). With tickets from £11, there’s magical experiences to delight all ages! Buy tickets online now. W: www.tattonpark.org.uk/christmas

BeWILDerwood presents Christmas

Celebrate the festive season at BeWILDerwood with BeWILDerwood Presents Christmas – A Starry Night of Sparkly Lights & Panto Magic! This magical evening is perfect for the whole family.

Wander beneath twinkling stars and through a mesmerising Sparkly Light Trail. Enjoy a mini pantomime bursting with festive cheer and meet your favourite BeWILDerwood characters. Plus, you’ll even get a glimpse of Father Christmas! Tickets are just £17.50 – book now and step into a twinkly adventure beneath the stars at BeWILDerwood this Christmas! W: www.bewilderwood.co.uk

CHRISTMAS CITY

A day out like no other awaits you in Manchester city centre this Christmas.

Revel in the sights, sounds and sparkle of our extraordinary Christmas Parade on 7 December.

Explore the UK’s biggest Christmas Markets from 7 November until 22 December.

Take your family for a spin on Skate Manchester’s spectacular ice rink in Cathedral Gardens, open until 4 January.

With food, drink, crafts, free family entertainment, and more, it’s the ultimate festive extravaganza.  Find

Experience Christmas at Gulliver’s

You’re in for a cracker of a time at Gulliver’s Theme Park Resorts… the place to be for festive family adventures this Christmas. Explore a massive selection of indoor and outdoor activities, with a visit to Santa’s magical grotto, where children have the chance to choose their own gift, included in every theme park day package. Ring in 2026 with the New Year’s festivities at Gulliver’s – an alternative celebration designed for adventurous, fun-loving families.

And get ready to journey through spectacular dreamworlds filled with giant lanterns, dazzling light installations, and magical scenes at Land of Lights Lantern Festival, which returns to Milton Keynes and Warrington, and arrives in Rotherham for the first time this winter! Book early to save more at www.gulliversfun.co.uk

Santa Specials at East Lancashire Railway

Santa Claus is coming to town, and he’s traded the sleigh in for a heritage steam train! Join the festive fun on board the East Lancashire Railway’s famous Santa Specials. Your family will make enchanted memories as you pass through the winter wonderland walkthrough and meet colourful Christmas characters on the platform. Once on the train you will enjoy the sounds of a brass band, meet even more festive friends and be visited by Santa, who will be passing out gifts for the little ones. This festive family experience takes place each weekend between 22nd November and Christmas, plus 22nd to 24th December too. Book online now. W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Plenty to do at the National Football Museum this season

Looking for something fun, affordable, and family-friendly to do in that strange period between Christmas and New Year? The National Football Museum is the perfect place to visit! With interactive games, jam-packed galleries filled with footballing history and inspiring exhibitions, there’s something for everyone – whether you’re a huge fan or just looking for a great day out. Best of all, a family of four can enjoy the full experience for under £40! Come rain or shine, they’ve got festive fun, football magic, and plenty to keep the kids entertained during the Christmas holidays in the heart of

Christmas always begins with Bents

Christmas magic returns to Bents where Father Christmas has arrived! He’ll be hosting his popular Festive Tea Parties and greeting families throughout the season. Their expanded Winter Food Market is back, now with even more sizzling street food stalls plus fresh pizzas, alongside sweet treats and Bents’ style fish and chips. And for extra sparkle discover Bents’ Winter Light Adventure, brand new for 2025. Tumble down the rabbit hole with Alice and embark on a fantastical light trail telling the stories of Alice’s adventures and the curious creatures she meets along the way. Find out more and book online. W: www.bents.co.uk

Enjoy Christmas in Stockport with Merseyway

From The Great Gingerbread Hunt and Father Christmas’ Grotto to heartfelt Giving Tree gifts, letter writing and extra shopping hours; Merseyway is set to sprinkle Stockport with free festive magic this Christmas.

The Great Gingerbread Hunt is a free-to-attend interactive experience transforming the centre into a festive trail for families. When Mrs. Claus discovers the gingerbread men have gone missing, young visitors are invited to help her find the missing pieces by following a trail map and clues through the centre mall.

Guided by Father Christmas’ playful elves and with fun surprises along the way, the adventure leads through Adlington Walk, where a Letter Writing Station will be open daily from 1st-21st December. The journey concludes at the Gingerbread House, where families can meet Father Christmas in his grotto and receive a sweet treat from Mrs. Claus in her gingerbread-themed shop.

Merseyway will also be extending its Christmas opening hours and there are a variety of Festive Huts, where visitors can shop unique gifts and enjoy their favourite treats, including Yorkshire Pudding Wraps, Festive Crumble and more. W: www.merseyway.com

Enjoy more than just bowling at

King Pins

King Pins is the ultimate bowling experience for all the family, open now at Trafford Palazzo and Manchester Arndale! You’ll find state-of-the-art Ten Pin and Duck Pin bowling, as well as mini golf, ice-free curling, shuffleboard, karaoke, a huge arcade and more.

And the fun doesn’t stop at the games. You can also tuck into top-quality pizza, chicken and delicious sides from Marvin’s, as well as grabbing something sweet from their very own dessert emporium, Royal Treats. There are even some Christmas specials to get you in the festive spirit! They don’t call it the Crown Jewels of Bowling for nothing! W: www.kingpins.co.uk

Lightwaves Salford: spectacular FREE light art festival

Thursday 4th – Sunday 7th December

Staged around outdoor locations across Salford Quays and MediaCity, free-to-attend Lightwaves Salford invites families and friends of all ages to get together and explore captivating light installations that transform the waterside environment after dark. This year’s event will feature 11 spectacular artworks, many of them interactive using light, music and technology to create an unforgettable experience.

A favourite with families, this FREE light art festival runs from Thursday 4th December to Sunday 7th December, 4pm-10pm. No booking required, just turn up and enjoy! W: www.quaysculture.com

Give the gift of film this Christmas and help bring the magic of cinema direct to those in hospital

Every year many thousands of patients are admitted to Manchester NHS hospitals. Many of those patients have long or frequent stays in hospital, leading to feelings of isolation, stress and anxiety, not only for patients but also for their families.

That’s why, with your support, Manchester Foundation Trust Charity are bringing a purpose-built cinema to their hospitals, providing movie magic for patients, young and old. The cinema will provide much needed opportunities for respite away from the ward, creating special memories and positive, shared experiences with loved ones for thousands of patients and their families, all year round.

If you’d like to support the NHS Manchester hospitals this Christmas, find out more about how your fundraising or donation can make a difference at www.mftcharity.org.uk

Seasonal SHOWS

Pantomimes, on-stage shows and films are an annual Christmas tradition for many families! We have lots in the area to choose from, and theatre or cinema tickets are also great a gift idea. Book your seats soon before they sell out!

Two great shows coming to Aviva Studios this season

Aviva Studios, home of Factory International, has two fantastic shows landing this winter. The Moonwalkers: A journey with Tom Hanks and Shaun the Sheep’s Circus Show, a visual spectacle that’s fun for all the family. The Moonwalkers is an awe-inspiring immersive experience, telling the stories of the Apollo missions of the 60s and 70s. Only 12 people have walked on the moon, now’s your chance to see how they got there! In Shaun the Sheep’s Circus Show you can expect flips, tricks and farmyard mayhem. The show is packed with Aardman’s signature wit and incredible talents of Circa acrobats. It’s a high-flying family adventure with un-BAAAlievable acrobats! On stage from 11th December to 4th January. Tickets from £10, under twos go FREE. W: www.factoryinternational.org

Turning green this Christmas at The Northern Light Cinema Sale

At The Northern Light Cinema Sale, the newest independent cinema in Manchester, they’re looking forward to their first Christmas! There will be plenty for the whole family as they return to Oz for the highly anticipated Wicked: For Good, swing into action in Zootropolis 2 and settle down for Home Alone, Elf and many other Christmas classics. With children’s tickets starting from just £5, fresh popcorn from £3 and Pizza Club nights with Wood Fire Smoke on offer, this is the perfect place for a family outing this Christmas! W: www.tnlcinemasale.co.uk

A very Bury Christmas adventure for all the family –The

Pied Piper of Hamelin

The Met presents a spectacular local twist on the classic tale! When the dastardly Pied Piper arrives in Bury with plans to strip away everything that makes the town special, only Fairy Bury and her magic can stop him. Join Rudy, a young trader in Bury market, as he falls head over heels for the girl of his dreams and helps his mum, Little Bea Poop save all the black puddings in Bury. This hilarious show features show-stopping musical numbers, spectacular effects, and all the audience participation you’ve come to expect from Bury’s famous pantomime! On stage from Saturday 6th until Sunday 28th December, with tickets from £17, book now. W: www.themet.org.uk

Disney On Ice – Find Your Hero comes to AO Arena

Discover the hero inside us all as Disney on Ice returns! Step inside the magic of Encanto, sail away with Moana, join Anna and Elsa on their quest to protect their kingdom and be inspired by Disney Princesses with Ariel, Belle and Rapunzel. Hosted by Mickey and Minnie, experience world-class ice skating, iconic music and stunning costumes that will make this an experience the family will treasure forever! This amazing show is on ice at the AO Arena from Wednesday 10th to Sunday 14th December. W: www.disneyonice.co.uk

Snowstorm returns to The Trafford Centre with a brand-new Christmas adventure

Back for its 5th sensational year, Snowstorm returns to The Trafford Centre from 5th December until 4th January with a brand-new Christmas adventure – Wish.

This year’s magical show follows Wish, an elf who’s accidentally left behind on Christmas Eve. With his cheeky sidekick Jingle, he embarks on a thrilling chase to catch up with Santa before dawn breaks –racing through breathtaking scenes filled with festive wonder. Featuring world-class ice skaters, acclaimed circus artists, and spectacular choreography, Snowstorm: Wish is a dazzling fusion of talent, storytelling, and holiday spirit – perfect for families, friends, and anyone who loves Christmas magic. W: www.snow-storm.co.uk

Use code PT10 to get 10% OFF tickets! T&Cs apply.

Persil the Mermaid, this pantomime is suitable for the entire family. With a full supporting cast of wonderful professional dancers and three teams of amazingly talented young people from the local area, this trip to Never Island will leave you believing in the power of magic. Hook your tickets now to see Peter Pan at the Albert Halls between 29th November and 31st December. W: www.alberthalls-bolton.co.uk

The Hallé orchestra at The Bridgewater Hall –The Snowman & Shaun the Sheep

Saturday 20th December, 4pm &

Sunday 21st December, 11am and 1.30pm

The Snowman will be walking in the air, followed by a ‘ewe’-nique performance from Shaun the Sheep, as the Hallé brings the captivating music of these beloved characters to life in this enthralling concert for all ages.

Sit back and enjoy the films on The Bridgewater Hall Big Screen whilst the talented musicians of the Hallé accompany The Snowman as he soars through the wintry sky and Shaun the Sheep gets up to festive mischief in The Flight Before Christmas!

For fans of Wallace & Gromit, Julian Nott’s Theme and Chase will bring the beloved duo’s adventurous spirit to the stage, adding to this unmissable family-friendly celebration of music and storytelling. A concert for all ages to enjoy. W: www.halle.co.uk/christmas

WOW

What’s on Where in Greater Manchester

Running until Monday 22nd December

Christmas Markets

Manchester City Centre

www.manchester.gov.uk/christmas

Explore the UK’s best Christmas Markets, with hundreds of stalls across the city centre. Plus, enjoy a huge Ferris wheel and other fairground-style attractions in Albert Square.

Running until Sunday 4th January

Skate Manchester

Cathedral Gardens

www.manchester.gov.uk/christmas

Skate Manchester’s huge ice rink will offer a fun-filled ice skating experience!

Running until 31st January

Land of Lights

Lantern Festival

Gulliver’s World, WA5 9YZ warrington.landoflights.co.uk

The award-winning Land of Lights Lantern Festival returns to Warrington for a third season. Discover gigantic lanterns, mesmerizing light installations and festival vibes! Running on selected dates until the end of January.

Saturday 15th November – Tuesday 23rd December

Yuletide: A Glittering

Garden Adventure

Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk

Escape the ordinary and journey into a world of winter folklore at Yuletide – expect music, performance, puppets, and breathtaking lights.

Saturday 15th November –Wednesday 24th December

Christmas at Gulliver’s

Gulliver’s World, WA5 9YZ www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk

All Christmas theme park packages include a visit to Santa’s Grotto with the opportunity for children to choose their own gift. If you want to extend the fun you can book a fantastic festive short break.

Sunday 16th November

Stockport’s

Spectacular Sunday Merseyway Shopping Centre www.merseyway.com

More than 200 performers and 50 free shows transform Stockport town centre into a wonderland of music, street theatre and magic. Visitors can look forward to a dazzling mix of acts – from a giant carnival bee and stilt-walking Christmas Belles to comedy chefs, bouncing snowmen, cocky robins and roaming bands.

Saturday 22nd November – Tuesday 23rd December

Magical

Santa Cruise

Manchester River Cruises www.manchesterrivercruises.com

Climb aboard this festive family cruise from Salford Quays and set sail into the heart of Christmas magic. Little ones will enjoy juice and snacks before meeting Father Christmas in his floating grotto, where each child receives a special gift. Grown-ups can relax with a warming mulled wine and mince pie as the city glides by in all its wintry charm. Perfect for primary-aged children, this cruise is a cosy, joyful way to kick off the festive season.

Saturday 22nd November –

Wednesday 24th December

Santa Specials

East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Your family will make enchanted memories to share as they take a trip through the magical Irwell Valley alongside colourful characters and surprises. Whilst travelling, Santa himself will visit your carriage with a gift for every little one, and there will be plenty of time to have a chat with him and take a Santa selfie or two. Running on selected dates and there are some Santa Special trains specially designed for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Father Christmas at the Farm

Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk

Find Father Christmas and his elf helpers in a festive grotto. Enjoy roaming entertainers, festive choirs, brass bands, crafts and delicious treats in the Christmas Café. Running on selected dates. Tickets from £11.

Saturday 22nd November –Wednesday 31st December

Once Upon a Time at the Mansion

Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk

Step through the pages of your favourite festive tales at the Christmas Mansion where every room brings to life a classic story with lights, music, and costumed characters.

Wednesday 26th November – Monday 30th December

RHS Glow

RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk

RHS Garden Bridgewater becomes a glittering wonderland, bursting with festive fun for kids and grown-ups alike. Wander through a world of twinkling magic, where glowing trails lead you past shimmering trees, sparkling sculptures, and brand-new light displays.

Wednesday 26th November – Sunday 4th January

Shaun the Sheep Sculpture Trail

Aviva Studios www.factoryinternational.org

Six colourful Shaun the Sheep have taken over the St John’s Estate and Spinningfields –see how many you can find.

We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip…or promise!

GIVE PATIENTS THE JOY OF CINEMA

Bring the therapeutic power of cinema to patients, young and old, in our family of NHS hospitals.

Scan here to fundraise, donate or find out more! mftcharity.org.uk

Saturday 29th November

– Tuesday 23rd December

BeWILDerwood

Presents Christmas

BeWILDerwood

www.bewilderwood.co.uk

Celebrate the festive season at BeWILDerwood with BeWILDerwood Presents Christmas – A Starry Night of Sparkly Lights & Panto Magic! This magical evening is perfect for the whole family. Wander beneath twinkling stars and through a mesmerising Sparkly Light Trail. Enjoy a mini pantomime bursting with festive cheer and meet your favourite BeWILDerwood characters. Plus, you’ll even get a glimpse of Father Christmas! Running on selected dates.

Tuesday 2nd –

Friday 19th December

Festive Tea with Father Christmas

Bents Garden and Home www.bents.co.uk

Once again Father Christmas has pencilled some time in his diary and will be at Bents to enjoy a festive experience with his friends. Children from 4 years can join for a festive meal with entertainment and a special gift for each child. Includes a delicious homemade Christmas plate for your little one to indulge in, Christmas themed games, festive singing, a present for each child and much more! Running on selected dates.

Thursday 4th –Sunday 7th December

Lightwaves Salford

Salford Quays and MediaCity www.quaysculture.com

A spectacular FREE light art festival staged around outdoor locations across Salford Quays and MediaCity –explore captivating light installations that transform the waterside environment after dark. This year’s event will feature 11 spectacular artworks, many of them interactive using light, music and technology to create an unforgettable experience. 4pm-10pm.

Wednesday 5th December-

Saturday 3rd January

Alice in the Hidden Garden

Bents Garden and Home www.bents.co.uk

A winter light adventure! Follow the glow of twinkling lights and step into a spellbinding retelling of Alice at the all-new Wonderland Light Adventure in the Hidden Garden. Perfect for all ages, this Light Trail invites you on an after-dark adventure through imagination, mystery, and enchantment. Expect dazzling theatrical light installations, immersive soundscapes, and magical storytelling touches around every corner. 6pm-9pm. Early booking is recommended.

Friday 5th December – Sunday 4th January

Snowstorm – Wish

The Trafford Centre www.snow-storm.co.uk

We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip…or promise!

This year’s magical show follows Wish, an elf who’s accidentally left behind on Christmas Eve. With his cheeky sidekick Jingle, he embarks on a thrilling chase to catch up with Santa before dawn breaks – racing through breathtaking scenes filled with festive wonder. Featuring world-class ice skaters, acclaimed circus artists, and spectacular choreography.

Use code PT10 for 10% OFF

Saturday 6th –Saturday 20th December

Festive Breakfast with Father Christmas

Bents Garden and Home www.bents.co.uk

Children from 4 years can join for a festive breakfast with entertainment and a special gift for each child. Plus, Christmas Magic from Stevie Mandini and keep your eye on the Naughty Elf! Includes a delicious sandwich for your little one to indulge in, entertainment and a visit and present from Father Christmas. Running on Saturdays. 9.30-11am.

Saturday 6th –Sunday 21st December

The Great Gingerbread Hunt

Merseyway, Stockport www.merseyway.com

A free interactive experience. Mrs. Claus discovers the gingerbread men have gone missing! Collect your trail map to join the hunt and write your letter to Santa along the way. Meet Santa himself and receive a reward from Mrs Claus in her gingerbread sweet shop. Open on weekends.

Sunday 7th December

Christmas Parade

Manchester City Centre www.manchester.gov.uk

The city’s free Christmas Parade is back, bigger and better than ever. A line-up of spectacular characters, magical performances, and extraordinary acts will capture the imaginations of youngsters and delight the whole family.

Thursday 11th December

Christmas Carols in the City Manchester Cathedral www.mftcharity.org.uk

Join event host Mike Toolan for a magical evening of festive music and celebration, featuring performances from talented local choirs! Every penny raised will help Manchester Foundation Trust Charity to build and run a cinema on their Oxford Road hospital campus, to bring the therapeutic magic of the movies to patients of all ages cared for by their hospitals. They’ll even be featuring some much-loved Christmas movie classics in this year’s concert! Starts at 7pm.

Saturday 20th DecemberSunday 11th January

Family Arts and Crafts

Aviva Studios

www.factoryinternational.org

Self-led colouring stations at weekends, 11am-3pm.

Friday 26th December

Mince Pie Special East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Every visitor travelling on a heritage train along the Irwell Valley on this date will be given their very own mince pie, compliments of the ELR. One per customer, available whilst stocks last.

Wednesday 31st December

New Year’s Celebrations

Gulliver’s World, WA5 9YZ www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk

Join the New Year’s Eve adventure at Gulliver’s World… an alternative New Year celebration designed for adventurous, fun-loving families!

Box OFFICE

All the very best theatre, film and orchestra near you! Choose a great show or concert for your family this festive season and heading into the new year.

Albert Halls

www.alberthalls-bolton.co.uk

Saturday 29th November –

Wednesday 31st December

THE ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN

Take flight alongside Peter, Wendy, and Tinks as they venture into Never Island and meet the dastardly Captain Hook and his sidekick Smee. This perfect festive treat features spectacular scenery, dazzling costumes, amazing special effects, lots of audience participation, plenty of comedy and a good helping of fairy dust!

Saturday 13th December

SANTA LIVE!

Join the magical elves as they help Santa save Christmas and fix Muddles’ mistake and deliver the presents to lots of exciting characters they meet along the way.

AO Arena

www.ao-arena.com

Wednesday 10th –

Sunday 14th December

DISNEY ON ICE

Discover the hero inside us all when Disney On Ice returns with the magical adventures of favourite Disney stars brought to life like never before. Sail away with Moana on her journey across the ocean to return the heart of Te Fiti. Join Anna and Elsa on their quest to protect their kingdom. Be inspired by Disney Princesses under the sea with Ariel, explore with Belle, and belt out your dreams with Rapunzel. Hosted by Mickey and Minnie, experience world-class ice skating, iconic music, and stunning costumes that will make this an experience the family will treasure forever.

Tuesday 23rd December

WICKED WIZARD OF OZ – A CIRQUE SPECTACULAR

A brand-new, breathtaking, Cirque staging of the Wicked Wizard of Oz.

Thursday 11th December – Sunday 4th January

SHAUN THE SHEEP’S CIRCUS SHOW

This show combines the extreme physicality and awe-inspiring feats of Circa and the playful charm of the multi-award-winning, globally successful Shaun the Sheep. Watch Shaun and the Flock entertain the audience through incredible feats of daredevil acrobatics and vibrant circus skills.

Tuesday 16th December – Sunday 11th January

THE MOONWALKERS – A JOURNEY WITH TOM HANKS

Tom Hanks narrates an epic experience that offers a new perspective on humankind’s past and future voyages to the moon. An awe-inspiring immersive experience for all ages.

Bridgewater Hall www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

Sunday 7th December

HALLÉ CHRISTMAS FAMILY CONCERT: SLEIGH RIDE ADVENTURE

Hop aboard for a musical sleigh ride adventure with the Hallé! Jingle all the way through festive favourites including famous TV and film music… and of course there’ll be some carols and singalongs so everyone can join in! Visit the foyer beforehand for family fun and free activities!

Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st December

THE SNOWMAN & SHAUN THE SHEEP

Sit back and enjoy the films on the Big Screen whilst the talented musicians of the Hallé accompany The Snowman as he soars through the wintry sky and Shaun the Sheep gets up to festive mischief in The Flight Before Christmas!

Lowry www.thelowry.com

Wednesday 3rd December – Sunday 11th January

THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE

Step through the wardrobe into the magic kingdom of Narnia where a world of wonder awaits. Celebrating the 75th anniversary of C.S. Lewis’s classic novel, watch The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe come to life in this spectacular production – the perfect treat for all the family.

Wednesday 10th December – Sunday 4th January

THE ENORMOUS CROCODILE –THE MUSICAL

The Enormous Crocodile is weaving his way through the jungle to Lowry in search of delicious little fingers and squidgy podgy knees… Only the other jungle creatures can foil his secret plans and clever tricks, but they’re going to have to find a large amount of courage to stop this greedy brute. This mischievous musical based on Roald Dahl’s snappy book has toe-tapping tunes featuring a menagerie of puppets.

Manchester Opera House www.atgtickets.com/manchester

Friday 6th –Sunday 8th February

HORRIBLE HISTORIES – THE CONCERT

For the first time, your favourite songs and actors from the BAFTA Award-winning CBBC TV series will be appearing live (and dead!) on stage in a very special production! When William Shakespeare is asked to create the greatest show on earth, he’s no idea how much trouble he’ll get from monstrous monarchs like King Henry VIII, Queen Elizabeth I and Queen Victoria! Featuring a live band.

The Met www.themet.org.uk

Saturday 6th –Sunday 28th December

THE PIED PIPER OF HAMELIN

When the dastardly Pied Piper arrives in Bury with plans to strip away everything that makes the town special, only Fairy Bury and her magic can stop him. This hilarious show features show-stopping musical numbers, spectacular effects, and all the audience participation you’ve come to expect from Bury’s famous pantomime!

The Northern Light Cinema www.tnlcinemasale.co.uk

From Friday 21st November

WICKED: FOR GOOD

Last year’s global cinematic cultural sensation, which became the most successful Broadway film adaptation of all time, now reaches its epic, electrifying, emotional conclusion.

From Saturday 22nd November

CBEEBIES PANTO

2025:

CINDERELLA

It’s back! The not to be missed event on the Christmas calendar. More fun and mayhem from the CBeebies team. Sing and dance along with all your favourites in this panto classic!