All of the following businesses have paid to feature in this listicle: Aviva Studios, Churnet Valley Railway, Christmas at Lyme, Trafford Centre, Jodrell Bank, Snowstorm, East Lancashire Railway
As the festive season approaches, Manchester and beyond is set to dazzle with an array of holiday attractions and events.
From train rides and ice skating to walking under the stars, there’s no shortage of holiday cheer. Whether you’re exploring the enchanting lights or enjoying an immersive show, Manchester offers endless opportunities to celebrate the magic of Christmas in style.
David Hockney at Aviva Studios
Jump into David Hockney’s artwork this Christmas at Aviva Studios, Manchester. This 52 minute, immersive show is the perfect, family friendly festive trip.
Narrated by the artist, the show uses 360-degree projections and an epic score composed by Nico Muhly to put you and your little ones at the centre of Hockney’s world.
From the shimmering swimming pools of Los Angeles to the blossoming of Spring in Normandy, David Hockney: Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away) takes you on a journey through sixty years of Hockney’s best loved pieces.
Running from December 10 to January 25 at Aviva Studios, Manchester, it is suitable for all ages, tickets from £10.
For more information: Visit www.factoryinternational.org/ or its Facebook page
Churnet Valley Railway
Attention all believers: Boarding for the Polar Express to the North Pole will start soon. Please stand by for hot chocolate and a large helping of Christmas spirit.
Churnet Valley Railway is gearing up for another season of North Pole trips aboard everyone’s favourite Christmas train: the Polar Express. It’s an hour of singing, dancing, storytelling, hot chocolate, cookies, and, best of all, handing your Christmas wish list to Santa in person.
Join us in the heart of Staffordshire for this family-friendly Christmas spirit-boosting adventure (in pyjamas). The 2024 season starts on November 16 and runs on selected dates until December 23. Tickets are available now.
For more information: Visit www.churnetvalleyrailway.co.uk/polar-express-train-ride
Christmas at Lyme
Start Christmas with a bang as Animal Crackers comes back to Lyme for another year. Lyme’s house has been taken over by magnificent and unusual beasts and this year they’re exploring winter traditions.
With interactive fun for all the family: monkey around as you learn to wassail, sing carols with the birds, and join the Lord of Misrule for a festive feast. Enjoy the house decked for the season with Christmas trees laden with decorations and Christmas stockings hanging over the fireplace – animal shaped of course!
Included in the general admissions price, from £22.50 for a family ticket, or free for National Trust Members, enjoy a low-cost full festive day out at Lyme this winter. It runs from November 29 to December 24 from 11am to 3pm.
For more information: Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme
Snowstorm
After three sell out years Snowstorm, the ice show returns with a sensational new show “Firebird”, A Winter Spectacle of Ice and Circus, running from December 6 to January 5.
Experience the magic of Firebird a captivating winter show that combines the elegance of ice skating with the excitement of circus performances. Follow Irina on her epic quest to restore the wings of the mystical Firebirds, stolen by the evil sorcerer.
This visually stunning production features world-class skaters and top circus performers in a celebration of light, unity, and the triumph of good over evil. Perfect for all ages, Firebird is a must-see event that blends cultural diversity and artistic excellence into a spectacular story of hope and community.
A heart-warming story, perfect for the Season, Don’t miss out—get your tickets now!
For more information: Visit www.quaytickets.com
Jodrell Bank
Running from December 17 to 20 is the Winter of Wonder, a magical event over just four special evenings. Stroll along twinkling paths beneath a starlit canopy and see Jodrell as never before.
Kids can dress up as astronauts, enjoy Christmas crafts, and watch family classic ‘The Snowman’ in the Space Dome. Don’t miss exclusive Science Show, ‘Starlight Spectacular’, or browse for gifts while sipping mulled wine or hot chocolate.
Discover the Astronomy Photographer of the Year exhibition and soak up the Christmas atmosphere with seasonal treats. It’s a perfect evening of festive fun for the whole family! Open 3.30pm to 8.30pm. Tickets from £12. (Annual tickets not valid)
For more information: Visit www.jodrellbank.net or its Facebook page
Trafford Centre
Embark on a festive adventure to remember at Trafford Centre. Wrap up warm as you glide across our shimmering ice rink, enjoy the thrill of the big wheel and fairground rides, before indulging in festive feasting galore.
At “The Grotto: Dear Santa”, children are invited on an exclusive tour of the North Pole Headquarters, leading up to a magical moment with Santa himself.
The Christmas Trail offers an immersive journey through a wonderland of lights, whilst Gandeys’ enchanting production, Snowstorm Firebird, is a show not to be missed.
For more information: Visit www.traffordcentre.co.uk or its Facebook page
East Lancanshire Railway
You better not pout and you better not cry, Santa Claus is coming to town this November and December, and he’s traded in his sleigh for a heritage steam train!
Book for the East Lancashire Railway’s Santa Specials. You’ll enjoy a winter wonderland walkthrough, meet with colourful festive characters and take a steam train ride through the Irwell Valley.
During the trip you’ll enjoy a brass band, meet more characters and be visited by the man himself, Father Christmas! Special SEND Sessions are also available.
For more information: Visit www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk/events-activities/santa-trains/
