We don’t mean to wish away any semblance of summer have left, but honestly we’re ready for cosy nights and festive happenings in Manchester. Lucky for us, returning for its second edition this Christmas is The Twilight Trail at Manchester’s Mayfield Park, right next door to Freight Island, and just a short five-minute walk from Manchester Piccadilly Station.
Running from Thursday 14 November until New Year’s Eve on Tuesday 31 December, this budget-friendly festive attraction offers an immersive winter light show that will captivate visitors of all ages. The Twilight Trail transforms the 6.5-acre Mayfield Park into a twinkling wonderland, complete with stunning visual installations, a mesmerising lantern display, and a captivating soundscape that will enchant and delight.
The Twilight Trail will feature many new installations for 2024, including light tunnels such as The Twist, an all-new Laser Garden to immerse yourself in, and a Giant Boom Box installation. Alongside the newbies will be the returning Rainbow Road and Disco Under The Bridges, which proved extremely popular last year.
Adding to the excitement, iconic disco collective La Discothèque and special guest Craig Charles will soundtrack the experience as guests walk through the dazzling displays, with Craig’s latest compilation, ‘Trunk Of Funk, Volume 3‘ – you won’t want to stop dancing. This carefully curated mix will perfectly complement the mesmerising light installations, making guests journey through The Twilight Trail a truly unforgettable sensory experience.
Commenting on the compilation, Craig Charles said the compilation features “19 of the finest slices of super slinky soul, boot shaking blues and boogie, dazzling discofied ditties and fine funky rump shakers!”
Together, Winter Island and The Twilight Trail create the ultimate festive experience in the heart of Manchester, making it a must-visit destination this winter, with a variety of experiences designed to delight families, couples, groups, and everyone in between.
Top tip for families visiting The Twilight Trail this season: a child ticket also includes a Kids Eat Free offer at Freight Island. Valid for one free kids’ menu item per child, when purchased along side a regular priced adult meal (participating traders only).
Tickets for The Twilight Trail start from £10 per adult (13+), from £8 per child (3 to 12), and free for under 2s. Family tickets (2 adults, 2 children) are available from £32.
You can find out more about The Twilight Trail at Mayfield Park and book a ticket here.