Arts and Culture
Manchester Christmas Markets (1st to 22nd)
Wander through the iconic Christmas Markets spread across the city centre, from Piccadilly Gardens’ Winter Gardens to the food stalls at St Ann’s Square. Perfect for festive snacks, gift shopping, or just soaking up the Christmas atmosphere.
Stan’s Secret Santa – Manchester Museum (2nd to 7th)
Ever wanted to see a T. Rex in a Santa hat? Manchester Museum’s beloved Stan is back for the annual Stan’s Secret Santa appeal. Drop off festive donations for people experiencing homelessness and poverty. Visit between 10am–5pm (or until 8pm on Wednesdays), donate gifts, and get a selfie with ‘Stanta’ himself.
Lightwaves Festival at Salford Quays (4th –7th)
A stunning, free outdoor light-art trail across MediaCity and Salford Quays. Expect immersive installations, glowing sculptures, and interactive pieces, it’s the perfect cosy evening activity.
Northern Lights Trail at Heaton Park (Throughout December)
Follow a magical mile long illuminated route through one of the city’s biggest and most beautiful parks. Each section includes large scale light artworks and atmospheric sounds which make it ideal for a festive night out.
Cottonopolis: The Origins of Global Manchester (Throughout December)
Explore the roots of Manchester’s global identity through its cotton industry in this new exhibition at The John Rylands Library. Cottonopolis uncovers the city’s industrial past and its worldwide connections. The exhibition is free and perfect for a thoughtful afternoon indoors.
Live Events and Gigs
The Blues Kitchen – Festive Soul Saturdays (Every Saturday)
The Blues Kitchen host their weekly soul nights now with festive sets, expect live bands, Motown, funk, and DJs running late into the night. Free entry makes it one of the best budget-friendly nights out in December.
Band on the Wall – Emerging Artists Nights (Throughout December)
Catch rising indie, jazz, and soul musicians for low cost or sometimes free gigs. A great spot to discover new local talent.
Club and Student Events (Throughout December)
Venues like Ark, Deaf Institute, and YES host themed cheap-entry nights throughout December, think Christmas tunes, throwback nights, and student drink deals.
Sports and Community
Manchester Santa Dash (6th)
Join over 3,000 Santas for this festive 2km or 5km run through Saddleworth. The event raises money for local charities and this year it also partners with My Community Wardrobe, collecting warm clothing donations for children across Oldham.
Blackpool Illuminations Trip – Students’ Union Event (14th)
Experience one of the UK’s most iconic winter light festivals with the SU’s special evening trip to the Blackpool Illuminations, a 6-mile-long light spectacle. Expect laser projections, interactive installations, illuminated trams, and over one million bulbs. This annual event only runs for a limited time, so don’t miss your chance to see it!
Skate Manchester – Cathedral Gardens (Throughout December)
Whether you’re a confident skater or a complete beginner, the undercover ice rink is a December must do. Surrounded by markets and Christmas lights, it’s a great and fun night to challenge yourself. Student discounts are available with valid ID!
South Manchester Parkrun – Platt Fields Park (Every Saturday)
Start your winter weekends with a refreshing 5k through Platt Fields. Whether you run, jog, walk, or cheer from the sidelines, Parkrun is a friendly and free way to stay active during the colder months, perfect for clearing your head before revision or festive plans.
Winter Wellness Walks – Heaton Park (Throughout December)
Heaton Park hosts a range of guided community walks throughout December. They’re gentle, sociable, and a great way to get outdoors, meet new people, and enjoy some calm before the excitement of the holidays.
Low-cost activities!
Volunteer with a Local Charity
Get involved with Manchester’s vibrant volunteering scene. Check out the Volunteer Hub for opportunities throughout the year, a great way to meet new people, give back to the community, and boost your CV.
Pitch Up at the Football Museum
Whether you’re a red or a blue, Manchester residents can enjoy free entry to the National Football Museum. Explore the world’s largest public collection of football memorabilia, including Mary Earps’ goalkeeper gloves, the oldest football shirt, and a Marcus Rashford banner made from a bedsheet.
Visit Yes Bar for half-price pizza & free events
Say “yes” to student friendly deals at Yes Bar on Charles Street. Enjoy half-price pepperoni pizzas, drinks promotions, karaoke, DJ sets, and after-parties across four floors. Follow their Instagram for weekly updates and enjoy a lively, affordable night out with friends.