The rotting pumpkins are now feeding our plants while our trolleys are filling with sparklers and firewood… That’s right, Halloween is behind us and November is taking centre stage. It’s the month to dig out your woolly hats, pin on your poppies and start some preliminary Christmas shopping.
It’s also the time to treat yourself to a fun day out or indulge in a romantic date night before your calendar starts filling up with festive commitments. To help narrow down the endless possibilities that await in the city, we’ve rounded up some fabulous things to do in Manchester this November.
1. Visit the Christmas Markets
2. Catch this dazzling firework display with a difference at Manchester Printworks
The first word that springs to mind at the mere mention of November is always fireworks. You can remember, remember the 5th of November at Manchester Printworks this year. In the absence of the city’s cancelled bonfire event, they have decided to put on a unique and dazzling fireworks display with a difference on Bonfire Night. The free event aims to be an alternative for those looking to avoid large crowds while enjoying all the excitement of a live show, staying warm and dry.
3. Aim to deliver justice under pressure at Manchester’s courtroom drama
On November 29, The Stoller Hall will be converted into a fully staged courtroom complete with authentic props and projected evidence. With professional actors delivering compelling performances, you’ll hear opening arguments, cross-examinations, and witness testimony—then it’s your turn to deliberate. Scandal brews as a disgraced ex-driver stands trial for stealing global superstar Lana Tonneti’s $20m necklace. But is Lana telling the truth? Under time pressure, your sense of right and wrong is challenged in ways you’ve never experienced before.
4. See indie music icons including Blossoms, Hard-Fi & Jake Bugg play an exclusive Manchester show
To celebrate 10 years of Radio X, the home to huge rock and indie tunes, has announced that it will host a huge, exclusive gig in Manchester this November, aptly named Radio X is Ten Live – and the line-up is set to be amazing. Preparing to play a homecoming show in front of local fans are Stockport‘s indie heroes Blossoms, alongside Liverpool’s Circa Waves and Nottingham-born singer and friend of the station Jake Bugg plus the ’00s indie legends Hard-Fi will bring their huge, nostalgic sound to the O2 Apollo Manchester.
5. Explore the UK’s biggest celebration of Japanese culture at Hyper Japan
For the first time, Hyper Japan will take place at the Manchester Central Convention Complex, bringing food, fashion, and so much fun to Manchester. From Friday 14th to Sunday 16th November, Hyper Japan will offer something for every fan – from families and first-timers to long-time fans of Japanese music and culture. The programme includes everything from exclusive pop culture and food and drink experiences, to a bustling marketplace, live music from anime stars and J-Pop artists, and artisan workshops.
6. Head out on an after-dark illuminated trail at Dunham Massey
Back for 2025 and here to lift our spirits, Dunham Massey has confirmed the return of their stunningly festive illumination trail, which is set to take place from this November. The after-dark illuminated trail will bring all the festive feels to the historic National Trust venue, along with three new light installations. The event, which will be its eighth run this Christmas, will transform the beautiful formal gardens and deer park with festive lights trailing throughout.
7. Escape to the wilderness of Manchester’s nearby forests
Nature has had its autumnal makeover and is positively glowing with a spectrum of gold, yellow and orange, especially within the local and enchanting forests. You can swap pounding the pavement for crunching over fallen leaves this November. In a short drive you could be breathing in the fresh air of Blackley Forest, laced with a serpentine river, or catching sight of a red deer in the enchanting tangle of Macclesfield Forest. There’s nothing quite like a blustery stroll among the trees, free of the crowds and chaos of the city. Though, if you find yourself missing the city folk, there’ll be nothing sweeter than going home after; rosy-cheeked and refreshed.
8. Enter the fairytale world of Tchaikovsky’s music at this Candlelight ballet show
See talented ballerinas dance to the tune of Tchaikovsky’s famous compositions performed by an incredible music group at Candlelight Ballet: Swan Lake in Manchester. As the lights dim, thousands of candles will flicker, illuminating the spectacular Manchester Cathedral. Watch a breathtaking tale as ballerinas weave a magical story told through dance and music, surrounded by the golden glow of candles.
9. Celebrate World Vegan Day
The first day of the month is officially World Vegan Day. As if you needed a reason to visit one of the many spots around Manchester that serve tasty vegan grub? Whether you’re someone looking to dip your toe in the world of vegan food for the first time or are a long-time vegan who is constantly on the hunt for new haunts serving delicious plant-based dishes, you are sure to find a favourite among these vegan eateries in Manchester.
10. Visit an alternative Manchester Christmas market set in a historical Edwardian engine hall
Looking for a Christmas market in town that’s further away from the crowds? Well, you’re in luck, as the People’s History Museum Winter Makers Market is the perfect spot to avoid the hustle and bustle. From November 20-23, the People’s History Museum’s magnificent Edwardian Engine Hall will be transformed into a vibrant festive marketplace. Set beneath the spectacular glass roof of the Grade II listed building, the event promises a magical atmosphere filled with seasonal shopping, cosy vibes, festive food, and live music.
11. Challenge your friends to darts at Flight Club
Tired of waiting around to use the one darts board at your local pub? But knowing in the back of your head that its far too busy to attempt even one throw without the distinct risk of catching a pint-wielding geezer? This is your answer. Flight Club’s fairground-themed bar has plenty of dart boards for you and your friends to unleash their competitive side on. Each one with fancy dart-tracking technology, digital score systems and cameras to catch you all in action.
12. Pay your respects at the poppy installation at IWM North on Remembrance Day
The crimson blanket of poppies that once flooded from the Tower of London has a permanent home at the Imperial War Museum North. They can be found cascading down the Air Shard as part of Remembrance events, serving as a striking symbol of the many lives lost in the First World War and encouraging onlookers to reflect on the true impact of the battle. Put on your poppies and visit the sculpture for free this Remembrance Day.
13. Get your culture fix at the Manchester Art Fair
Attention all art aficionados, painting pundits and sculpture savants. Manchester Art Fair is returning to Manchester Central between November 21 and 23, and will be the biggest to date, with even more new artists and galleries to discover. Since its launch in 2008, Manchester Art Fair has quietly become one of the UK’s largest and most significant art fairs, with its aim of making viewing and buying quality art accessible and enjoyable.
14. Catch up with a friend over a toasty hot chocolate
Gone are the summer days of craving a cold pint or iced coffee in the park. Now, with the autumnal chill setting in, we find ourselves with a hankering for something warm, sweet and comforting- hot chocolate, of course. There are a variety of spots around Manchester where you can find yourself clutching a frothy hot chocolate. From indulgent classics topped with cream and melt-in-your-mouth marshmallows to tempting flavour variations such as peanut butter, chocolate orange or a twist of boozy liqueur. Call your friend, you now know exactly where to meet.
15. Cosy up in a twinkling alpine hut with mulled wine and karaoke
Returning for 2025 to bring us a little bit of festive sparkle, Bar Hütte is bringing back its wonderful, twinkling alpine huts. Popping up in Great Northern Square, Bar Hütte offers Mancs a wonderful winter wonderland to enjoy. Bringing ski village vibes this November, guests will be able to book out their very own private ‘hütte’, perfect for getting together with friends during the colder months. Not only that, but it’s the perfect excuse to escape the chill, too, with some fantastic festive-themed drinks including hot gin, mulled wine and Irish hot chocolates on offer.
16. Glide on over to Cathedral Gardens as Skate Manchester returns
A staple of Manchester’s festive celebrations, Skate Manchester will reopen its doors this month. Families, friends and festive fun seekers can glide across the ice for the ultimate festive experience, which includes the return of its gleaming ice path giving skaters the chance to spin around a dazzling seven-metre-tall Christmas tree while enjoying the sights and sounds of Christmas in the city. The fully covered outdoor rink means skaters can take to the ice no matter what the weather – which is a particular perk in Manchester.
17. Browse over 80 fantastic stalls at this vegan Christmas market
Offering the ultimate inspiration for vegans, vegetarians, flexitarians, those thinking about going vegan or wanting to include more vegan products in their life this festive season is the Northern Vegan Christmas Festival. Taking place on November 1 at Sugden Sports Centre, the festival will exhibit with over 100 fantastic stalls and caterers throughout the day. There will be a mouth-watering array of vegan Christmas food plus stalls selling gifts including candles, toiletries, pet treats, handbags, jewellery, fashion, makeup and so much more.
18. Watch Shrek 2 at an immersive eat-along screening
As one of the colder months of the year, indoor activities are high up on the agenda. Taste Film is a great option if you’re looking for something to do with your pals or partner, with or without alcohol. Pairing brilliant food with iconic on-screen moments, Taste Film is truly a feast for all the senses. Giving a whole new meaning to ‘watch what you eat’, the immersive experience combines two of life’s greatest joys: food and film. If you’ve ever found yourself wanting to reach out and grab a bite of whatever’s on screen, then you can do exactly that, with this month’s movie being Shrek 2 – medieval meal, anyone?
19. Explore a new, magical Christmas market village
Manchester’s champions of independent food and drink, GRUB, are bringing a brand new festive experience to the city centre from November 20. Christmas at St. John’s will transform the area into a lively winter hideaway filled with fire, flavour, and festive fun. At the heart of it all is an elevated food experience that goes far beyond the traditional Christmas market. GRUB will showcase a revolving line-up of the North’s most exciting chefs and street food traders, serving unique festive dishes you won’t find anywhere else in Manchester.
20. See Lorde perform live at Manchester’s AO Arena
One of the biggest names to hit Manchester this November is New Zealand alt-pop sensation Lorde. Lorde is set to bring her ‘Ultrasound’ world tour to the AO Arena in Manchester this November. Known for her genre-defining sound and introspective lyrics, Lorde continues to resonate with fans through hits like Royals and her more recent collaboration with Charli XCX, Girl, So Confusing. Alongside support acts Blood Orange and Jim-E Stack, this concert promises a memorable night for all music lovers.
21. Travel back in time to ancient Machu Picchu with this new immersive VR experience
Tick Machu Picchu off your seven-wonders list with the most ground-breaking 45-minute adventure – Machu Picchu: Journey to the Lost City. This wonderful event in Manchester takes you on the world’s first large-scale free-roam VR expedition, where you can travel 450 years back to the ancient Inca Empire, offering an extraordinary VR journey for the whole family. The VR experience is guided by top 3D specialists and historians, ensuring both stunning visuals and historical accuracy.
22. Meet Bluey, Teletubbies, The Gruffalo & Paddington at the Trafford Centre’s Christmas parade
The Trafford Centre has announced that its popular Christmas parade is making a festive return this November. Visitors to the Greater Manchester shopping centre can expect a host of family favourite characters, including Bluey, Teletubbies, Paddington and The Gruffalo, joining a cast of festive dancers and singers in a magical extravaganza to kickstart the Christmas season. The parade is free to attend and you can even expect an appearance from Santa himself!