Manchester cranks up the fun this February half-term with the inaugural Super Duper Family Festival.
The four-day extravaganza of imagination, creativity, and free, family-friendly activities promises to transform the city into a giant interactive playground.
From February 15 to 18, families can explore unique play zones scattered across Manchester’s iconic landmarks.
Each zone features activities ranging from giant mazes and retro video games to steam-powered carousels and family raves – all completely free.
Supported by Manchester Accommodation BID and local partners, including Manchester City Council, Marketing Manchester, Aviva Studios, Great Northern Warehouse, and Printworks, the festival celebrates the city’s best venues while inspiring creativity and joy for all ages.
Highlights of the festival
The family festival will feature six key zones across the city, with more to be announced. They include:
The Garden (Exchange Square, outside Selfridges)
- Wander through an 18m x 18m hedge maze towering two metres high.
- Enjoy garden games like Find the Gnome, stunning flower stalls, and workshops by Clocktower Florist.
- Snap photos with street art by Filthy Luker and meet the roaming Hedgemen performers.
The Carnival (St Ann’s Square)
- Step into a steampunk wonderland with a Victorian carousel, Hall of Mirrors, Test of Strength, and maddening brain games by the Museum of Illusions.
- Join circus skills workshops and games by Urban Playground.
- Marvel at the Big Mob – a trio of giant, slinky tubes (Sat and Sun only).
The Playground with Waterloo Road (New Cathedral Street)
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Dive into the ultimate school playground experience with BBC’s Waterloo Road, featuring popular schoolyard games.
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Participate in activities like designing your own locker, trying on blazers and ties from the show, or attending a mini school disco and talent show.
- Relive classic schoolyard games, from hopscotch and tig to giant chess and snakes and ladders, with play experts, Playful Anywhere.
The Arcade (Printworks, Withy Grove)
- Experience retro and modern gaming under Europe’s largest digital ceiling. Highlights include The World’s Largest Pac-Man and interactive gaming on a giant screen.
The Sports Hall (Great Northern Warehouse, Deansgate)
- Dive into four zones of sporty fun featuring football, table tennis, curling, Scalextric racing, and more.
- Pose for a family victory photo on the trophy podium.
The Party (Aviva Studios)
- Dance to world-class DJs at family raves or relax in the lounge with films, craft workshops, and storytelling sessions.
Citywide attractions
Top attractions across the city centre are stepping up to make The Super Duper Family Festival an even more unforgettable experience.
Iconic venues like the National Football Museum, Stoller Hall, People’s History Museum, and the stunning Castlefield Viaduct are set to host their own exciting activities, adding even more magic to the weekend.
Families can also attend the thrilling launch of CBBC’s Operation Ouch: Brains, Bogeys and You at the Science and Industry Museum, which promises a mix of hands-on fun and fascinating discoveries.
Plan your visit
With so much going on around the city, hotels within Manchester’s Accommodation BID zone are making it easy for families to stay and enjoy a half-term getaway. Exclusive rates and tailored packages are being released soon.
From added perks to unbeatable discounts, families can stay in the heart of the city for the duration of the festival.
Plus, Manchester’s vibrant restaurants and shops are joining the celebration with tempting freebies, kids-eat-free deals, and special rewards, ensuring every moment is packed with delight.
Find out more
For the latest updates, follow the festival on Instagram and Facebook or visit www.visitmanchester.com/super-duper-family-festival
