The most wonderful time of the year is here: the Christmas holidays! A period of time where, we as adults, get caught up in the magic of the season, routine goes out of the window, and a diet of chocolate and late nights enter the household. We basically regress to childhood – and as for the actual children in our lives, they lap it up. Whether you’re seeking to be the fun parent/aunt/uncle/family friend this season, there is an abundance of terrific things to do with kids in Manchester this Christmas while we await Santa’s arrival – or during the days that follow his visit. Get your coats on and get out into the city.
1. Enjoy hot chocolates and karaoke in these cosy cabins
Bar Huttë, at both Kampus and Deansgate’s Great Northern, are making their iconic wooden huttë’s the picture perfect home of Santa Claus Club. Wrap up warm and head down to enjoy an hour of karaoke magic in a snug hütte, grab free hot chocolates for the family and some colouring pads for the children. And to guarantee the perfect amount of Christmas magic, Santa Claus himself will pay you a visit, long enough for you to grab a selfie or two!
2. Cosy up watching a classic Christmas film on the big screen
We’re sure you’ll agree that one of the best parts of the festive season is Christmas films, and Manchester isn’t short of places to screen them for our viewing pleasure. From underground cinemas to those out in nature, there’s a huge variety of experiences to be had whilst sitting back and watching classics from It’s A Wonderful Life to Love Actually, more memorable than just sitting in your front room. So why not make a day of it at one of the cosiest spots to watch Christmas films in Manchester?
3. Experience a Christmas wonderland at Tinsel Town
Sending the year out with a bang with the return of the Trafford Centre’s festive event, Tinsel Town, guests are invited to enjoy a whole host of festive activities – including the return of their huge fairground rides for all ages to enjoy, a spectacular ice show and winter ice rink. Visitors can also enjoy incredible views and festive magic this Christmas, as the big wheel returns to the Trafford Centre’s Tinsel Town – see all the glittering lights and sights from a staggering 55 metres high.
4. Catch a Christmas show or pantomime
Nothing says Christmas quite like a show or pantomime, and thankfully, there are a wide selection of performances to enjoy in Manchester this festive season, including the award-wining musical, Wicked. From family favourites to beautiful ballet performances, playful pantos to amazing adaptations, Christmas in Manchester is sure to be show-stopping.
5. Admire bright and beautiful light installations at The Twilight Trail in Mayfield Park
A brand new light show has arrived in Manchester city centre for Christmas and it’s sure to dazzle both adults and kids. Located in Mayfield Park, Manchester city centre’s first new public park in more than 100 years, is an enchanting winter light show known as The Twilight Trail. Running until December 31, The Twilight Trail at Mayfield Park is the perfect inner-city Christmas destination designed for all ages, from families, couples, groups, and everyone in between. Visitors can explore enchanting lighting installations taking over the 6.5-acre park and finish the trail at Freight Island where you can stay for further festive experiences.
6. Sing (or hum) your heart out at a Christmas concert
While panto in the heart of Manchester is one of the done things to with kids at Christmas, there’s only so many “he’s behind you!”s one can take. If you’re feeling a bit Grinchy over the whole panto experience, why not head to a Christmas concert instead? Perhaps one of Manchester’s festive Candlelight concerts will do the trick. On December 15 and 22, they’ll be able to enjoy 60 minutes of magical festive movie scores at Candlelight Christmas. A string quartet will perform the likes of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas from The Holiday, Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree from Home Alone, and Jingle Bells from Elf, illuminated by the soft glow of candlelight. While singing out loud isn’t really the vibe here, humming along and enjoying the music is yours and your child’s prerogative.
7. Try a range of ‘Grinch’-themed treats at this cafe located in Primark Trafford
Manchester Trafford Centre and Market Street Primark store are set to become home to Dr Seuss The Grinch Café once again following the success of last year. Now open until the end of December, customers at Manchester Primark stores can relax in the red and green surroundings of The Grinch Café and enjoy a host of limited-edition menu items. Primark’s Grinch Cafe is sure to be a hit with fans of the furry character, with everything from green waffles and shakes to festive toasties and hot drinks to warm even the frostiest of hearts.
8. Make a splash at UV art experience Neon Brush Kids
Neon Brush Kids is heading to Studio Bee in Manchester on December 21. The dynamic art workshop allows kids and adults alike to speak to their inner artists using neon paints that glow under UV lights. This thrilling experience blends music, stencils, and vibrant colours to inspire artistic exploration in a fun, playful environment -perhaps a festive-themed piece of art could be on the cards? With mess-free painting and glowing masterpieces to take home, it’s the perfect chance to bond and laugh.
9. See Santa’s helpers and reindeer on a drive-thru safari
Make your way a little out of the city to Black Meadows Farm for a drive-thru Christmas safari experience, and see the reindeer as they prepare for their big night. Admire Donna, Blitzen, Rudolph and co from the comfort of your car, as they saunter around the 1.5km trail. You’ll also be able to enjoy countryside views, Christmas lighting, and have some fun in a hidden village. There’s even a drive-thru grotto with Father Christmas.
10. Hop aboard this festive train ride through the countryside with Santa
You better not pout and you better not cry, Santa Claus is coming to town! Santa is very, very busy this festive season as you can steam into Christmas on the East Lancashire Railway’s famously festive Santa Specials. Begin the adventure at Bury Bolton Street Station where you will journey through a gorgeously decorated winter wonderland. Say hello to Mrs Claus and the talking Christmas Tree, and maybe even stop for a quick singalong with our carol singing choir of polar bears, before boarding your train. Whilst travelling, Santa himself will visit your carriage with a gift, a chat and even a selfie!
11. Head to the new, mind-binding Museum of Illusions
New to the city, Museum of Illusions should definitely be on the cards for a mind-bending day out in Manchester with the kids over the Christmas holidays. The new 10,700 sq ft space is filled with “fascinating holograms, mind-bending illusion rooms, and astonishing exhibits intended to trick the mind and puzzle perceptions”. In addition to the museum’s signature, most popular and photo-worthy exhibits, such as the Walk-in Kaleidoscope, Vortex Tunnel, and Infinity Room, visitors will be treated to custom-made installations that celebrate Manchester’s unique culture and heritage.
12. Be mesmerised by Dunham Massey‘s festive light trail
Another activity to leave the kids in awe and is also a perfect Christmas treat is Dunham Massey’s stunningly festive light trail just a short drive away from Manchester. See the beautiful formal gardens and deer park at Dunham Massey transform with light installations situated throughout. The after-dark illuminated trail will be bringing all the festive feels to the historic National Trust venue, along with three new light installations. Gasp at the huge strobe effects that flood the park and waterside with colourful lights, walk through light-covered tunnels (brilliant for photos) and walk alongside artistic-looking light sculptures.
13. Seek out Santa himself at one of these grottos in Greater Manchester
Now, we couldn’t finish this list without suggesting a trip to see Santa – and thankfully, you don’t need to head to the North Pole to do so. This year, Father Christmas will be popping up all over the city and surrounding areas for kids to meet him in person. However, if you’re looking for something a little different to do in Manchester this Christmas, we recommend taking the kids to meet Santa Claus at the Trafford Centre’s grotto at a new location, or why not catch him at the Visit Santa experience at Freight Island?