If you’re looking for Manchester Christmas events, we have everything you need right here. From Christmas Markets to craft workshops and grottos, there are lots of events to choose from.
If you’re looking for year round events in Manchester, you may find our guide for Things to do in Manchester useful.
Otherwise, keep reading to see the best Christmas events in Manchester…
Winter Gardens | Piccadilly Gardens
Piccadilly Gardens, Manchester, M1 1AF
Piccadilly Gardens transforms into the city’s Winter Gardens — a buzzing social hub with festive bars, street food huts, craft stalls and live entertainment beneath sparkling lights.
Feast on Yorkshire pudding wraps, loaded fries, bratwurst and sweet treats, or sip hot toddies and mulled wine under the heated canopies.
Date: 7th November 2025 – 4th January 2026
Time: 11am – 10pm
Northern Lights Trail | Heaton Park
Heaton Park, Middleton Road, Manchester, M25 2SW
Step into a world of wonder at Heaton Park’s Northern Lights Trail. Wander through illuminated forests, glowing tunnels and shimmering sculptures, all set to festive music.
An evening adventure for all the family — with hot chocolate stations, street food and a magical Santa’s Grotto.
Date: 22nd November – 31st December 2025
Time: 4:30pm – 9:30pm
Lapland Manchester | TraffordCity
Intu Trafford Centre area, Manchester, M17 8AA
An immersive Christmas experience where families journey through the magical world of Lapland — decorate gingerbread, help the elves in the toy factory and meet Father Christmas himself
Date: 15th November – 24th December 2025
Time: Sessions from 9am – 6pm
Manchester Christmas Markets | Albert Square
Albert Square, Manchester, M2
Manchester’s world-famous Christmas Markets return, filling the city with twinkling lights, festive aromas and more than 200 traditional stalls. Albert Square is the heart of the action, offering artisan crafts, handmade gifts and warming festive food.
Keep cosy with bratwurst, Dutch pancakes, hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts and steaming mugs of glühwein.
Date: 7th November – 22nd December 2025
Time: 10am – 9pm
Manchester Christmas Market | St Ann’s Square
St Ann’s Square, Manchester, M2
Traditional wooden chalets offering a mix of seasonal gifts, jewellery, festive foods and drinks, all set within the charming historic square.
Enjoy gourmet hot dogs, loaded fries and mulled wine while soaking up the festive atmosphere.
Date: 7th November – 22nd December 2025
Time: 10am – 9pm
Manchester Christmas Market | Exchange Street
Exchange Street, Manchester, M4
A hub for unique gifts and creative crafts. Expect artisan goods and seasonal treats, with a lively festive atmosphere right in the city centre.
Date: 7th November – 22nd December 2025
Time: 10am – 9pm
Skate Manchester | Cathedral Gardens
Cathedral Gardens, Manchester, M4 3BG
A family favourite — glide across Manchester’s outdoor ice rink surrounded by twinkling trees, festive stalls and cheerful music. Hot chocolate and food stalls line the rink for post-skate treats.
Date: 2nd November 2025 – 5th January 2026
Time: 10am – 9pm
Christmas Experience | Cockfields Farm Park
Lees Road, Ashton-under-Lyne, OL6 8AR
A hands-on festive adventure for younger children. Meet Santa and his reindeer, decorate cookies with Mrs Claus, and visit the toy workshop to make your own Christmas creation.
Includes farm animals, festive shows, crafts and plenty of family photo opportunities.
Date: 23rd November – 24th December 2025
Time: 10am – 5pm
Manchester Christmas Market | King Street
King Street, Manchester, M2
Specialising in festive treats and fine crafts, this market spot is perfect for finding unusual Christmas presents while enjoying seasonal music and lights.
Date: 7th November 2025 – 22nd December 2025
Time: 10am – 9pm
Manchester Christmas Market | Market Street
Market Street, Manchester, M1
Filled with stalls offering food, drink and handmade goods, all under twinkling lights, creating a bustling festive atmosphere.
Date: 7th November – 22nd December 2025
Time: 10am – 9pm
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