Even though our city gets even wetter and colder, this is a great winter month to get out there, bask in the snow and see the wild shenanigans on offer.
The lights are bright and the markets are in full effect, so there's absolutely no excuse not to get into the festive spirit. As it's now the season of giving, here is our little Christmas present to you; a rundown of the best events happening this December in Manchester.
@ Alcotraz Penitentiary: Manchester on Various dates from Monday 21st September 2026
Winter just got a whole lot hotter thanks to this quirky prison cocktail experience. Alcotraz are bringing together a fun lineup of festive drinks and twists on their usual immersive action, making it one of the most fun things to do in Manchester come December.
@ Sticks'n'Sushi Manchester on Every Saturday
One of the city's more extravagant brunches? You'll find it at Sticks'n'Sushi, of course. Their All You Can Sip Brunch champions Japanese dishes and DJ-led entertainment every single Saturday. Start things off with a round of sharing plates, ranging from karaage chicken and tuna tartare bites to tasty vegan alternatives.
Each guest will then get to select one dish each from the maki, nigiri and sticks menu – with optional upgrades including Japanese Wagyu and miso black cod. Everyone gets a mango coconut rice pudding to finish things off, unless you've still got time on the clock for your 90 minutes of bottomless drinks – think endless English spritzes, prosecco, bellinis, Asahi beer or wine.
@ The Big Manchester Bake on Various dates from Monday 21st September 2026
Strap on your apron and get ready to mix to be crowned the champion with tickets to The Manchester Big Bake. The award-winning event takes place in a marquee with all the ingredients pre-measured and available for you and your bench buddy to use. Set the clock to 90 minutes and unleash your creativity, all from £49.90 per person.
Need things to do in Manchester at Christmas 2024? Stunning lights have come into full-force this month, offering a seasonal escape complete with twinkling displays, trails and more. And where to go afterwards? We've got places to eat and drink covered too.
Experience the heart of Manchester's drag scene with Bougie Drag Events. Bursting with personality, style, and attitude, this event series brings you the best drag performances from the hottest queens in the business.
Expect hilarious banter, sensational outfits, and over-the-top performances that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you're there for the fierce competition or just to enjoy a fun night out with friends, Bougie offers a night of fabulous entertainment and unforgettable moments.
Whether you want an RnB or garage theme for your brunch, Taste + Liquor are bringing the feel-good vibes to Manchester. There's five hours of partying and complimentary rum punch for a portion of that, so you can dance away to your fav tunes in style.
Switch things up a little and indulge you inner naughty side with Fabulous Brunch Events' Christmas schedule. You'll be treated to stunning drag performances, butlers in the buff and plenty more raucous entertainment to get you in the festive spirit.
@ Cloudwater Brewery Taproom on Saturday 26th September 2026 and 2 other Saturdays
Beer lovers will be craving a trip to the Manchester Craft Beer Experience, touring taprooms and breweries across the city. You'll be sipping on the best hoppy nectar while learning about the do's and don'ts of creating the best brew, all with expert guides on hand.
Celebrate from the First Sip – Prosecco welcome reception, only £5 per person
December is all about festive fun, and Treetop Golf Manchester delivers with glowing jungle courses and party packages to suit all group sizes.
Yule Be Swinging (£28 per person) provides an hour and a half of mini golf, nibbles, and drinks for groups of 4 - 40, while Jungle Bell Rock (£42) and Par-Tee All the Way (£60) include pizza, extra drinks, reserved areas, and Christmas props. Whether it's a work party, family celebration, or friends' night out, you can tee off in style and enjoy seasonal cheer.
Stuck for what to do in Manchester in December 2024? Have no fear, The Lawn Club is here to serve up plenty of grub and a few cheeky tipples or bottomless brunch in their enclosed pergola and winter disco yurt - ideal for getting that Insta pic.
This ain't your ordinary high tea... With bottomless booze of cocktails, fizz concoctions and draught beer, Cherry Jam are really kicking things up a notch this December in Manchester. Their Christmas afternoon teas are offering up a lip-smacking festive feast for added yuletide cheer.
If you're on the hunt for the best things to do in Manchester in December 2025 and craving a spot filled with twinkling fairy lights and the scent of mulled wine, why not explore one of its amazing Christmas markets?
These winter wonderlands are packed with everything you need to get into the holiday spirit, from artisanal crafts to ice skating and irresistible hog roast wraps. We've got you sorted with our ultimate guide to all things yuletide cheer.
