With festive season approaching, the creators of Manchester’s iconic The Twilight Trail are back with their newest holiday spectacle: The Christmas Trail at Wilderspool Woods, a 4.5-acre Christmas wonderland nestled in the grounds of the Trafford Centre in Manchester.
Running every day from 4pm, from Friday 8 November 2024 until Thursday 2 January 2025, this breathtaking experience follows the successful launch of The Halloween Trail at the same location, and promises to whisk visitors into a magical wonderland of twinkling lights and festive magic. Wilderspool Woods will be illuminated by a dazzling array of lights and captivating installations, including The Moon – a giant glowing sculpture suspended between the trees, surrounded by twinkling stars and beams of light.
Curious explorers can follow the festive glow to discover Father Christmas’ hidden treasures, a collection of giant, illuminated presents nestled among the trees that offer visitors the perfect festive photo opportunity. Those who keep an eye on the sky will catch a glimpse of Shooting Stars – a twinkling, four-metre star shining high in the treetops, sending dozens of sparkling, smaller stars shooting across the canopy in a brilliant display of celestial magic.
Further along are the enchanting Giant Orbs – glowing spheres that pulse and fade with colour, hidden amidst the forest‘s lush greenery. Nearby the water’s edge, delicate origami boats float effortlessly on the surface, creating a serene, picture-perfect scene. Elsewhere, Fallen Stars cascade from the branches above, with dazzling LED pixel stars that animate and sparkle in mesmerising patterns.
A festive soundtrack will put guests in the festive mood at the Christmas Trail, with holiday classics and upbeat tunes filling the Manchester air as they make their way through the illuminated trail, scattered with falling snowflakes. Complementing the festive atmosphere, Manchester favourite Freight Island is opening a festive pop up at Wilderspool Woods, available for guests at The Christmas Trail and everyone visiting Trafford Centre this festive season.
Freight Island pop-up traders at The Christmas Trail will include:
- Formaggi by Lazy Tony’s: Indulge in comforting roasties, festive poutine, and gooey Italian- American toasties, perfect for a chilly winter evening.
- Voodoo Rays: A must for pizza lovers, serving giant 22″ New York-style slices, with special holiday toppings for the season.
- Cabin Chocolat: The ultimate destination for hot chocolate lovers, offering rich, decadent creations with marshmallows, peppermint, and spiced flavours – or try one of their signature boozy hot chocolates for a festive twist.
- Winter Warmers: Sip on festive beverages like mulled wine, offering the perfect way to warm up while enjoying the holiday atmosphere.
- Soft Boi: Serving delicious donuts and crepes with festive flavours, perfect for a sweet treat after exploring the trail.
Plus, special guest trader Heard, the new burger venture from two Michelin-starred chef Jordan Bailey, will return with mouth-watering seasonal smash burgers made using the finest ingredients from eco- friendly farms.
Simon Layton, Centre Director at Trafford Centre, said: “We’re delighted to bring a new festive experience to Trafford this Christmas. Collaborating once again with Freight Island and other fantastic partners, we’ve created an unforgettable celebration of light, joy, and seasonal magic. We can’t wait to see Wilderspool Woods sparkle this Christmas.”
The Christmas Trail will run every day from 4pm, from Friday 8 November 2024 until Thursday 2 January 2025. Tickets are on sale now, with prices starting from £8 for children, £10 for adults, and family tickets from £32 – book here.
Free parking is available for all ticket holders, with convenient transport links also available via tram and bus.