Best Christmas Events In Manchester

The Big Manchester Bake is the ultimate baking challenge for anyone who loves a bit of friendly competition and delicious treats this Christmas. Set in a vibrant and interactive environment, this fun and unique event invites participants to roll up their sleeves and get creative in the kitchen.

Teams of bakers will go head-to-head to create show-stopping bakes, following quirky themes and fun challenges that test their skills, speed, and imagination. Whether you're a baking pro or a novice, the event guarantees a memorable experience filled with laughter, camaraderie, and of course, plenty of mouth-watering creations to enjoy.

Situated in Spinningfields, The Lawn Club is a popular venue all year round. But it really comes alive in winter, thanks to their apres ski-themed yurt. The heated space is decked out in festive lighting, as well as a beautifully decorated tree.

You can enjoy a delicious winter menu here too, featuring everything from  potted brisket and stuffing balls in cranberry sauce to honey mustard pigs in blankets.

Looking for free Christmas events in Manchester? Then check out Freight Island, the Baring Street venue that's home to multiple food vendors, bars and both indoor and outdoor spaces - where they often host brilliant events.

This festive period, they're putting a seasonal spin on their popular Cherrybomb event, where resident DJs will be spinning non-stop Christmas hits - we're talking Sister Sledge, Chic, Stevie Wonder and much more.

Elevate your festive celebrations at Manchester's stunning rooftop venue atop the Spinningfields ABC building. This December, The Dome transforms into a mesmerizing Winter Oasis, evoking the enchantment of a snow globe.

Whether you're indulging in bottomless brunches or hosting unforgettable private events, this picturesque setting offers the ultimate seasonal escape. Join their Saturday Bottomless Spritz Brunch, where you'll enjoy 90 minutes of unlimited spritzes, cocktails, beers, and bratwursts for £42.50 per person - a perfect way to toast the holiday spirit.

Head to Courts Club for Winter Assembly, a festive retreat offering an enchanting mix of activities. Book a Chalaoke hut for an intimate karaoke session, skate on the ice rink, and catch a Christmas movie screening.

Warm up with delicious boozy hot chocolates and taste festive delights like German BBQ, Winter Gyros, and grilled cheese sandwiches, all while enjoying the atmosphere of Christmas trees and crackling fire pits.

Located in the heart of Spinningfields, The Oast House has git it all going on this winter. Their TeePee pop-up is returning, promising multiple fire pits, pretty fairy lights, festive themed cocktails and tasty comfort food - from turkey hanging kebabs to Christmas dinner pies.

They're also hosting a wreath-making session on 25th November, complete with a drink on arrival and a delicious festive main course. This is all included in your £48.50 ticket, as well as everything you need to make your take-home decoration.

Create a special gift for a loved one or something to take pride of place in your own home with Paintvine's festive workshops, which take place at both Revolution in Parsonage Gardens and Mala on Dale Street. This year, they're hosting a  Christmas decoration sculpting session, plus a snow globe-themed paint and sip.

You'll be given all the tools you need to make your decorations and paintings – plus there's even a chance to add some drinks into the mix. Not a natural artist? Never fear, as there will be expert instructors on hand to help.

Things to do in Manchester this Christmas 2025 are topped off by nabbing a piled-high plate of hearty dinner. Whether you're looking for a work night out, a seasonal meal with friends or even an alternative to cooking on the 25th, we've got just the place.

From festive feasts laden with meat, potatoes and all the trimmings, to seasonal twists on other dishes, this guide has it all.

Looking for the best places to see Christmas lights? Make a day of it with our guide to the city's top displays, plus nearby pubs or restaurants for seasonal food and drink after.

From Heaton Park to Dunham Massey, there are heaps of amazing places to explore, lit up with gorgeous colourful scenes to celebrate the season.

What could be more festive than heading to a Christmas market? We certainly can't think of anything. There are all sorts of seasonal stalls to explore across Manchester, from the main Christmas markets across nine city centre locations to pop-ups in Altrincham and Stockport.

We've rounded up five of the very best locations to visit, to get your fix of mulled wine, hot chocolate and unique gifts.