Best Things To Do In Manchester For Christmas 2023

As the festive season draws closer, there is nowhere better to spend Christmas in 2023 than Manchester. Commonly referred to as the capital of the North, Manchester is renowned for its vibrant culture and is also one of the best cities to visit in the UK during Christmas. Whether you are seeking an enchanting Christmas-themed night with a loved one, or want to enjoy a festive family outing, there are plenty of delightful things to do in Manchester for Christmas. Embrace the festive cheer as the city transforms into a winter wonderland, offering the perfect backdrop for unforgettable holiday experiences.

Today, we will guide you through our favourite things to do in Manchester for Christmas this year.

Get Lost At The Christmas Markets

Christmas markets are becoming more and more popular across Europe. So, why not visit one of the best Christmas markets that the UK has to offer? Running from the 10th of November to the 21st of December, there are nine sites to explore as part of Manchester’s Christmas markets in 2023. Here is a quick rundown of the different Christmas market sites:

• Piccadilly Gardens
• King Street
• Market Street
• St Ann’s Square
• Exchange Street
• New Cathedral Street
• Exchange Square
• Cathedral Gardens
• The Corn Exchange

Every area offers a completely unique experience, with over 225 stalls for you to explore throughout Manchester’s Christmas markets. Although all areas offer a wonderful experience, our personal favourite is Picaddily Gardens - or Winter Gardens as it is better known over the Christmas period. Open daily between 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, you can enjoy live music and entertainment in Manchester’s most idyllic Christmas market. With an array of craft and gift stalls to discover, Winter Gardens makes the perfect day out for locals and visitors alike. Although food stalls close at 6:00 pm, Zouk is only a short 20-minute walk away meaning you can enjoy festive fun long into the evening. Browse our holiday menus for the perfect way to round off your day at Picadilly Gardens this Christmas.

Explore Enchanting Light Displays

Over the Christmas period, Manchester really is a beautiful site to behold by night. Although it might not sound like one of the most eventful things to do, taking a stroll across Manchester City Centre and witnessing the fantastic festive illuminations is enough to put a smile on anybody's face who is seeking an enchanting Christmas atmosphere. There are plenty of wonderful Christmas light displays for you to explore and enjoy in and around Manchester City Centre, but here are some of our favourites:

• Piccadilly Gardens - As one of Manchester’s most popular Christmas markets, you can also expect to find a plethora of stunning illuminations here.
• St Peters Square - Whilst the area is decorated with many other delightful illuminations, the real showstopper is the Giant Santa, who has made his big return for 2023. Stood at 12 metres tall, Giant Santa is a much-loved attraction in the heart of Manchester City Centre. Why not grab a selfie with him?
• Cathedral Gardens - Away from the busy Christmas market, this park offers a serene escape amidst the city's bustling energy. During Christmas, the park transforms into a magical winter wonderland, with twinkling lights outlining the trees and pathways.

There are many other locations to enjoy Christmas illuminations in and around Manchester City Centre - we are even proud of our own festive decor at Zouk! Our giant Zouk Christmas Bear is always a popular attraction for kids and adults alike.

Get Your Skates On

If you fancy more action from your Christmas activities, why not give ice skating a try? Situated in Cathedral Gardens, Skate Manchester is the perfect place to enjoy some festive fun. Open until the 2nd of January 2024, this is the perfect location to soak up the atmosphere from the Christmas markets and then lace up your skates - the ideal activity for couples and families alike.

Immerse Yourself In Theatre At Christmas

Going to the theatre is a special occasion no matter the time of year, but it is even more magical during the festive season. Gather your loved ones and indulge in the wonder of live theatre, creating lasting memories in the heart of Manchester's cultural scene. One of our favourite locations is the Manchester Palace Theatre, located just a 5-minute walk from Zouk. Showing the award-winning musical Hamilton throughout December, this is a great theatre night to enjoy with a loved one. Aside from this, the Manchester Opera House is another great location to enjoy live theatre performances during the festive period. Starring Jason Manford, Jack And The Beanstalk takes centre stage in December which is the perfect viewing for families - both adults and children are sure to love it! Theatres in Manchester City Centre all offer a stellar lineup of shows, providing the perfect opportunity for a cultural and entertaining evening during the holiday season.

Before the big show, why not indulge in our delicious pre-theatre menu? We have a menu dedicated to show-goers, featuring an indulgent two-course meal from only £20 per person. Find out more about our pre-theatre dining menu at Zouk.

Discover Winter Wonderland

Winter Funland is another great festive attraction to enjoy in Manchester this year. Located at the BEC Arena, there are a whole host of activities to enjoy including circus shows, funfair rides, and many other festive-themed attractions. The event runs from the 17th of December to the 1st of January, with tickets allowing you to enjoy the event for 3.5 hours. Situated only a short 15-minute drive away, you can enjoy a delicious festive dinner at Zouk after you have finished at Winter Funland. Book now with Zouk.

Enjoying Christmas In Manchester

Spending Christmas in Manchester promises an array of fun experiences that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you're strolling through the festive markets, admiring the mesmerising light displays, or revelling in other festive delights, the city offers an unmatchable sensation of holiday cheer.

If you are looking for the perfect way to start your festive-inspired day, why not enjoy the best halal brunch in Manchester at Zouk? Or, if want to indulge at our restaurant for lunch or dinner after you are finished at the Christmas markets, please see our festive menus. See you soon!

*The featured image at the top of this post is courtesy of Marketing Manchester.