TOP TEN THINGS TO DO IN MANCHESTER THIS CHRISTMAS

 

10. The Lanterns at Chester Zoo: Technically just outside of Manchester, but let's all remember this is a fun list and there's no room on my list for technicalities. Perfect to bring the kids to if you cross your fingers and hope the gift shops not open. These lights at night claim to be up there with the best. 

9. Manchester Christmas Lights switch on (Deansgate): Sort of where it all begins! The Christmas lights will be coming on on the 14th of November (week after the opening of the Christmas Markets) and as always promises to be quite some specticle. Expect lots of cheering, clapping, kids on their parents shoulders and well, lots of lights. 

8. The Snowman (Opera House Manchester): The first stage performance on my list and what a classic! Maybe the most nostalgic Christmas story ever and one that could kick off your Christmas festivities. It's only on for 4 days in November though, freeze and you'll miss it... 

7. Christmas at HOME: No, not Christmas at home like putting your feet up and watching Home Alone. HOME is a centre for contemporary art, theatre and film in Manchester and Christmas is the best time of year to visit for festive fun. This year promises to be dominated by 'feel good' musicals and a karaoke bar.  I'm there. 

6. How The Grinch Stole Christmas (The Lowry): The Lowry will be showing Dr Seuss's classic for the first time on stage in the UK. Expect lots of laughs and lots of kids blocking your view. I for one can't wait to get tickets. 

5. Ice Village Manchester: Returning to Manchester Cathedral Gardens this Christmas, Ice Village has everything from ice skating to a Santa's grotto. Fancy a pint whilst the kids are zooming around the rink? Head over to the Tiki bar it has everything you desire and more. 

4. Intu Trafford Centre: I actually don't know why I love the Trafford Centre so much, but I can't think of anything else that lights up quite as much at this time of year around Manchester. With plenty of shops to to get your mum and new pair of slippers or slip away for some grub in one of the many restaurants, this place deserves the tram stop that's coming in 2020. 

3. The Magical Winter Trail (Dunham Massey): Any time of the year Dunham Massey is a beautiful place to visit, but with the addition of outdoor christmas lights and immersive outdoor installations this place really comes to life in the icy weather. 

2. Operation Santa (Lucardo Escape Rooms): Couldn't put ourselves at number 1 could we, but as a Christmas activity Lucardo are bringing Christmas to Manchester in the form of a half an hour mini escape room. Ever seen a full size sleigh in an escape room before? Probably not, and this is just one of a few reasons to catch this game before the weather starts heating up again. 

1. Christmas Markets: Believe the hype. The Christmas markets offer everything from mulled wine to smoked bratwurst. Feeling chilly? Get yourself on the ice rink for hours of skating fun. Is it a little pricey? perhaps, but this doesn't take away from the spectacle that brings thousands to the centre of Manchester everything Christmas.  

Fancy an escape room? You can find out more by clicking the link below