Keep the kids entertained with events around the area during the school holidays.
Discover, learn, and play
Eureka! is an exciting and fun-filled museum that boasts hundreds of interactive exhibits
for children aged 0 to 11. With six unique zones to explore, young visitors can engage their imaginations and discover more about themselves and the world around them by the magic of learning through play.
This December, the museum is packed full of interactive events activities designed to captivate young minds. PixelPlay is a mesmerising digital sandbox where pixels come to life as dancing projections, playful creatures, and dot-based creations.
For the littlest explorers, Eureka! has festive activities running throughout December for babies and toddlers to enjoy. Families can experience designated pre-school days where you can explore the museum without school bookings, so its spaces and staff will be available for inquisitive minds explore.
Eureka! also prioritises inclusivity with SEN days where there’s reduced visitor numbers, flexible scheduling, calming chill-out rooms, and ear defenders, so every child can join in the fun.
Skates on | 8th November to 1st January
Manchester’s biggest covered outdoor ice rink is set to make a return in the Cathedral Gardens from November to January. The fully covered rink means skaters can take to the ice no matter what the weather – which is a particular perk in Manchester!
Skate Manchester will offer a variety of skate sessions tailored to meet the needs of all visitors, including dedicated quiet and sensory-friendly sessions, and discounted tickets for wheelchair users. You can even get the little ones involved as there will be two-bladed skates available for those who feel less confident on the ice.
Face the music | 15th December
Stockport Symphony Orchestra is performing its annual family-friendly concert at Stockport Town Hall this December and this year will be heroes and villains themed. Stockport Symphony Orchestra was formed in 1975 and today has over 120 members that will be performing in the Edwardian splendour of the Town Hall.
The concert will be presented and narrated by Emma Cunliffe feature Peter and the Wolf alongside some of the most iconic heroes and villains portrayed in music such as Beauty and the Beast, Lord of the Rings, Jurassic Park, and many more! There will be seating at the front reserved for families with children so all ages can enjoy the music.
He’s behind you! | 6th to 26th December
It wouldn’t be a festive period without a pantomime and this year at The Met in Bury, Rumpelstiltskin is running throughout December. The Big Tiny brings its new story of magic, mayhem and true love as Cupid comes to The Met. Can she overcome the wicked tricks of Rumpelstiltskin and help Prince Dierdrick find true love?
In Lieblingsberg, Cupid has been away for twenty years and upon her return, she discovers that a new bitter, twisted little man who lives underneath the haunted hollow tree has settled in the town and goes by the name of Rumpelstiltskin. There will be audience participation for all ages as you help the characters to outwit evil and celebrate the true meaning of friendship and love.
Ice cold | 6th December to 5th January
Snowstorm is returning to the Trafford Centre for another year with a brand-new show – Firebird. Expect a captivating show that combines the elegance of ice skating with the excitement of circus performances.
Follow Irina on her quest to restore the wings of the magical Firebirds who have been stolen
by the evil sorcerer. The production features world-class skaters and top circus performers in a celebration of light, unity, and the triumph of good over evil. Firebird blends cultural diversity and artistic excellence into a spectacular story of hope and community that everyone will enjoy.