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: 6th November 2026 – 3rd January 2027
Time: 11am – 9pm
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: 19th November – 31st December 2026
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: 7th November – 24th December 2026
Time: Sessions from 10am – 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: 6th November – 3rd January 2027
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: 6th November – 22nd December 2026
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: 6th November – 22nd December 2026
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: 6th November 2026 – 3rd January 2027
Time: 10am – 9pm
Christmas Experience | Cockfields Farm Park
Lees Road, Ashton-under-Lyne, OL6 8AR
The elves at Cockfields Farm Park have been working around the clock to create the BIGGEST and BEST Christmas Experience yet for 2026!
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 is Manchester’s premier family Christmas experience—and you won’t want to miss it.
Date: 231st November – 24th December 2026
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: 6th November – 22nd December 2026
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: 6th November – 22nd December 2026
Time: 10am – 9pm
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