Celebrate the festive season in style as JLife tracks down some of the city’s best end-of-year bashes.
From bright lights and buzzing nightlife to day-time dining and casual gatherings, Manchester’s array of party hotspots have something for everyone. As 2015 nears its end, it’s time to pull out all the stops.
Manchester Jewish Museum
Once again, Manchester Jewish Museum will be playing host to a colourful and eclectic range of Chanukah-inspired events.
On 10th December, its annual Chanukah concert returns with a feast of klezmer music as over 20 performers entertain. Those featuring at the historic synagogue include the Michael Kaham Kapelye and L’chaim Kapelye.
Additionally, on 13th December the community is invited along to the museum to partake in a day of celebration as Christmas and Chanukah come together for a festive family-friendly affair. Enjoy the hands-on print-making workshop, and view a screening of Steven Spielberg’s animated classic, ‘An American Tail’.
Visit Manchesterjewishmuseum.com.
Menorah Synagogue
If you’re on the lookout for an abundance of stalls, food and games to add some sparkle to your typical Chanukah celebration, then Menorah Synagogue is at hand to help on 6th December.
Over the years, hundreds have participated in the exciting attractions which have featured face painting, a raffle, a chocolate tombola, as well as a host of flowers, books, and homemade cards to browse and purchase.
Visit Menorah.org.uk.
Chester Zoo
For a festive spectacle out of the ordinary, join in the fun at Chester Zoo’s Lantern Magic in which you can stroll throughout the grounds after dark and take in the night-time sounds, beautiful lantern-lit gardens, and magnificent larger-than-life animal lanterns. Festive characters will also take centre stage from 4th to 23rd December to spread even more cheer to young ones.
Visit Chesterzoo.org.
Cloud 23
Soar to new heights this New Year’s Eve by ushering in 2016 among the panoramic city views provided by Cloud 23. Injecting a sophisticated edge to the evening, you’ll be greeted by a champagne cocktail on arrival, a table for the duration of the celebration, and a selection of signature canapés; all while you relish the floor-to-ceiling window backdrop. A special countdown surprise has even been promised. There’s no excuse not to dust off your most glamorous outfit – or, even better, splurge on a new one!
Visit Cloud23bar.com.
The Bridgewater Hall
Why not see out 2015 with a glamorous evening celebrating the world’s most famous secret agent? On 31st December, West End star Louise Dearman joins Manchester Camerata for a thrilling selection of all our favourite James Bond themes, including Goldfinger, Skyfall, and Diamonds Are Forever. Kick off the fun early by going along for pre-concert dining before also basking in the informal entertainment in the foyer.
Visit Bridgewater-hall.co.uk.
The Comedy Store
Begin 2016 the way you intend for it to continue – surrounded by laughter and fun galore!
This New Year’s Eve, The Comedy Store is putting on a spread of some of the best – and funniest – stand-up, such as MC Justin Moorhouse, Mick Ferry,Tom Wrigglesworth, and The Noise Next Door.
Food and drink packages will also be aplenty, while you’ll be entertained through the evening and beyond. Comprising comedy and music, it really will be a soiree like no other.
Visit Thecomedystore.co.uk/Manchester.
Time to Celebrate
JLife’s selection of high quality local suppliers is guaranteed to make your party unforgettable.
AJ Bell Stadium
Whatever the reason, The AJ Bell Stadium loves to throw a good party!
Whether you are looking to celebrate an anniversary, a Bar/ Bat Mitzvah, or simply get together, the team are at hand to help you plan the event you imagine.
With a range of suites, catering options and drinks packages, you really are spoiled for choice!
Bellaballoons
Customers of Bellaballoons say that the displays add the fun and create the wow factor at their parties. With 10 years’ experience, the Bellaballoons team tailor decorations to suit you, enhancing themes and colour schemes and creating an amazing atmosphere for your celebration.
Bloomsbury Music
Bloomsbury Music can offer you the greatest range of live music for your party, wedding, Bar and Bat Mitzvah, or any other event. From jazz quartets to klezmer bands, the team has the most definitive selection of musicians/ show bands. Let them create your ultimate bespoke live playlist – Bloomsbury Music brings your event to life!
Didi’s Boutique
Didi’s is an exclusively-styled 1950s boutique with a unique clothing range for women. Owner Marie ‘Betty’ Davis loves bringing her customers together to take part in monthly fashion shows in the boutique, proving that size does not matter, and anyone can become a Didi’s pin up!
Dream Themes
Whether fully catered where Dream Themes take care of everything from A to Z or having your tables set with exquisite décor, Dream Themes can make your simcha stunning and original. Their passion for planning, production, attention to detail and knowledge of what’s trending right now, allows Dream Themes to create the perfect event that you have been dreaming of.
Strictly Waxing
Strictly Waxing specialises in waxing for both men and women, favouring non-strip wax which is much kinder to the skin. The town centre salons highly knowledgeable staff provide you with a comfortable, relaxing ambiance. Manicurists are available to pamper you with a selection of treatments using CND and Gelish.
The Bradford Hotel
The Bradford Hotel has been a regular venue for a large number of Jewish guests to celebrate New Year’s Eve for many years.
Host Allan Shalks is coming up to his 11th year co-ordinating this very enjoyable and successful event. One of his main tasks is to compile a five-course menu which is suitable for the many Jewish clients, ensuring that there’s always a fish and a vegetarian choice.
As guests arrive, afternoon tea is being served, while the evening starts off with a free Buck’s Fizz reception, followed by a superb choice of a five-course dinner.
Entertainment consists of 90 minutes of cabaret, and music until 1am. At midnight, you can toast the New Year in with free champagne.
When tiredness finally takes over, you can retire to your hotel bedroom for a comfortable night’s sleep. And the following morning is the perfect time to catch up with old and newly-made friends over a hearty breakfast, prior to your journey home.
For more information, call 01274 734 734 or visit Thebradfordhotel.com.