It is the most wonderful time of the year – Christmas! That’s right, it is time to talk about the thing we all can’t quite believe is here already. It is a time to gather with friends and family, eat, drink and be merry. To help you embrace the festive spirit we’ve pulled together a list of the best Christmas events in Manchester, Leeds and Liverpool.
MANCHESTER
CHRISTMAS MARKETS
The Manchester Christmas Markets are officially open and the city is full of festive huts until 22nd December. Think everything from food to presents and even a festive tipple or two. The main area falls into Albert Square bringing the aroma of mulled wine and Christmas spices, open from 10am until 9pm.
Find out more information, including a handy interactive map, here.
ICE VILLAGE ARCTIC BAR
Cathedral Gardens has been transformed into Britain’s first ever Ice Village. Where you’ll find an Ice Sculpture Cave, Ice Bar, Ice Rink, Santa’s Grotto and a Woodland Market with Christmas Market stalls.
Sip on a selection of festive drinks and enjoy entertainment at Manchester’s ‘coolest’ bar. With festive décor, traditional wooden furniture, speciality cocktails and tonnes of good beer, the Arctic Bar is the perfect place for a much-needed tipple after a long day Christmas shopping.
**MAGICAL CHRISTMAS MOVIE EXPERIENCE AT MAYFIELD **
Discover magic around every corner at A Magical Christmas Movie Experience at Mayfield. Venture in through a secret entrance and you’ll find yourself in a festive forest where you can explore whilst on your way to the incredible indoor cinema. Enjoy your favourite merry movies with mulled wine and seasonal cocktails, accompanied by live entertainment and winter food.
LEEDS
GERMAN CHRISTMAS MARKETS
Once again, this year Millennium Square has been transformed into the Christkindelmarkt German Christmas Market. It has over 40 traditionally decorated wooden chalet stalls featuring handcrafted toys, jewellery, festive decorations and authentic German food, as well as the infamous Christmas Carousel.
To find out more, visit here.
THE BIG WHEEL OF LIGHT AT VICTORIA GARDENS
The 110-foot Leeds Wheel of Light returns to Victoria Gardens with its 25,000 LED lights. If you fancy a spin on the big wheel and a great view of Leeds cityscape, this popular attraction will open daily from 11am-10pm Monday to Saturday, and 11am-8pm on Sundays.
THOR’S TIPI BAR
Back for another stint, Thor’s Tipi in Victoria Gardens is the perfect way to get into the festive spirit. The Viking-themed bar is a snug hideaway on winter nights, where you can cosy up with a few drinks next to the log fire. A drinks menu offering exciting new lagers, pale ales and Guinness whilst festive favourites such as mulled wine and hot cider will guarantee there is something to warm everyone’s cockles.
To find out more, visit here.
LIVERPOOL
COSY UP AT THE CHRISTMAS CINEMA NIGHT
This Christmas you can watch the most beloved festive films at St George’s Hall. The iconic landmark will host the ultimate festive film-watching experience by The Luna Cinema screening family favourites and modern classics across five days in December. Films include Home Alone, Elf, The Muppet Christmas Carol and Nightmare Before Christmas and will all be shown from 19th December.
You can check out films and times here.
BUYERS CLUB AT CHRISTMAS
Grab your friends, family and closest beings for a delicious festive sharing menu inside the cosy surroundings located at the top of Hardman Street. Served ‘family-style’ this year’s Christmas Sharing Menu will be laid out on the table in bowls where you can help yourself! Indulge in a number of Christmas favourites from pigs in blankets, glazed beef brisket, rosemary roasties and much more.
To book tickets and further info, visit here.
GARLAND MAKING
If arts and crafts combined with festive cheer is your Christmas calling then head to Sefton Park Palm House on December 10th for a garland-making workshop. The event includes afternoon tea, a glass of prosecco and everything you need to make your very own garland.
Click here to book tickets.