Christmas Lights in Manchester 2024-2025

From the city center to the Greater Manchester area, there are plenty of winter trails to explore

Dates: late September–December

Manchester is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the UK. Several fantastic Christmas markets located throughout the city center are the main attraction to visitors. At night, they glow and shimmer with millions of Christmas lights. A large Christmas tree, a giant Santa, illuminated sculptures and buildings can be seen at Piccadilly Gardens, St. Peter’s Square, St. Ann’s Square, and New Cathedral Street. Manchester Christmas lights go on after the gorgeous Switch-on ceremony, held in mid-November.

Manchester Christmas Light Switch-on (not taking place in 2024)

The annual Christmas light switch-on event in Manchester is one of the biggest parties of the season, which draws thousands of people into the city center. Crowds usually gather near the Manchester Cathedral to enjoy live music and various entertainment. The night ends with a spectacular fireworks display.

Escape to Freight Island (November 14–December 31, 2024)

Escape to Freight Island is an outdoor entertainment space in Manchester, which turns into a winter wonderland during Christmas. A giant Christmas tree, garlands, and decorations create the special atmosphere of a traditional Christmas market. In addition, there's live entertainment: concerts, cabaret shows, DJ sets, movie nights, comedy shows, and karaoke. The spectacular Twilight Trail is an immersive light and sound show, transforming Mayfield Park into a dazzling Winter Wonderland. Escape to Freight Island is open Thursday-Friday from 4 pm to 11 pm, on Saturday from noon to midnight, and on Sunday from noon to 10 pm.

Dunham Messey (November 15–January 1, 2025)

Dunham Massey Hall is a historical estate in the Greater Manchester area, home of the last Earl of Stamford. Every winter it showcases a Christmas lights trail with a beautiful light tunnel and various installations. A giant reindeer, snowflakes, and other holiday-themed sculptures are most popular with the public. The trail features over a million lights and a laser show that will surely create lasting memories. Tickets cost £26 for an adult and £18 for a child (3-16).