CitySuites Blog
Looking for things you can do during your stay? Check out our blogs below. We update this page regularly, so don't miss out!
December is the pinnacle of Christmas time🎄. Everyone's feeling it: the decorations are merry, the lights are festive, and the huts in Manchester's Christmas Markets are alpine and seasonal!
But December itself is full of winter wonder. Take a look at all the events happening during the month!
Whether you're into the holiday feels, or simply want to do something other than anything Christmas-related, this list will help you plan out your December visit to Manchester.
Don't let December slip by without indulging in a relaxed, luxury stay at CitySuites. Take a look at our availability for December, and be a stone's throw away from all seasonal happenings in Manchester.
Our Top 10 Manchester December Events For Families
Winter Funland
18th December - 2nd January
A beloved Christmas tradition for families worldwide, offering various festive activities including circuses, rides, inflatables for children and other attractions. To become the most seasonal experience outside of the North Pole, Winter Funland is set to create enchanting memories for families coming to attend. Join the event in Manchester this December.
Dome Show: We Are Stars
12th September - 13th December
Take part in this exciting journey of discovery. Dome Show: We Are Stars is an immersive experience that highlights the cosmic origins of our world through an animated adventure. The show answers questions from our knowledge, such as how the universe began, who we are, what we're made of, and so on.
Cinderella 2023 (Pantomime)
1st December - 30th December
An extraordinary family pantomime awaits those in Bolton's Albert Halls. Cinderella, produced by Polka Dot Pantomime, is bringing the timeless story into a magical theatre performance. The classical tale of Cinderella has always inspired many stories across our generation, and Polka Dot Pantomime is bringing an exciting performance with heartwarming moments and humorous theatrics this year!
Snow White
16th December - 18th December
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs make their way into Heywood for a pantomime classic! The show follows the original narrative of Snow White, as she ventures out into the world meeting colourful characters and experiencing diverse challenges.
We're Going On A Bear Hunt
7th December - 7th January
A jolly production, this lively adaptation of We're Going on a Bear Hunt will have the entire family in an adventurous mood! With an energetic production and versatile score, We're Going on a Bear Hunt is a joyous narrative full of catchy songs, scenes, and surprises. Perfect for children aged 3 and up, and a nice treat for families too.
Skate Manchester
Until 2nd January
A festive wonderland awaits everyone in Cathedral Gardens, Manchester. We've spoken about this skating rink in our Manchester Christmas Markets blog, but it's such a festive experience that it deserves another place in this post. This ice rink has been a staple of Manchester's seasonal markets and will continue to be for years to come.
The Muppet Christmas Carol
20th December
The Muppet Christmas Carol is making its way to Bridgewater Hall this Christmas, playing a live performance of the music's score alongside the fantastic musical. The story follows Ebeneezer Scrooge, and his iconic story of Christmas awakening, transformation and redemption - in muppet form!
Fairytale Of New York
4th December
A return for one of Manchester's well-known Christmassy productions, Fairytale of New York is featuring over 65 performances to create the ultimate festive show. This production includes classics such as "Fairytale Of New York", and "Driving Home For Christmas" as well as great Irish hits such as "The Irish Rover" and "Galway Girl". Expect lots of singing, laughter, dancing, and a great start to December's Christmas celebration.
The Life Of Pi
5th December to 7th January
Life of Pi has won numerous prestigious awards, and nominated for much more. The West End treasure sees Pi, stranded on a lifeboat with colourful animals, including a royal Bengal Tiger. He faces a cruel race against time dealing with forces of nature. Will Pi be able to incur peace within the lifeboat? The production will see stunning visuals, magic, and world-class puppetry to create a fantastic experience for families.
Lightwaves 2023
7th December - 10th December
A tranquil walk through spectacular light installations is coming this December in Salford Quays. Lightwaves transform the urban riverside of Salford Quays and MediaCity into an enticing path that illuminates the area! Free for all ages, and fit for all those curious, enjoy the artistic light installations in Lightwaves this year.
December in Manchester
A month full of surprises, Manchester is going all out with various events and activities for families in December - the evidence is above!
A mix of Christmassy events and high-scale shows/experiences makes December an incredible time to check Manchester out. There's lots to do with families in addition to the iconic Christmas Markets in the city! Although, there are also things such as Festive Sundays and Christmas parades to look forward to.
In short, Manchester during December 2023 is a place to be.
