Rainy day ideas

Until 22 Oct

500 Words story-writing workshops (ages 5-11) Trafford Libraries, Altrincham · 10 min 4-5pm: Sale Mon 19, Urmston Tue 20, Altrincham Wed 21, Stretford Thu 22 Oct; drop in, under-8s with an adultFree

Until 30 Oct

The Evolution of Magic Blackpool Pleasure Beach · 70 min Daily 14-30 Oct; show times on site£10–25

Until 31 Oct

Indoor Pumpkin Patch and free Autumn Pumpkin Trail Summerseat Garden Centre, Bury · 45 min Daily 9am-6pm; free entry, woodland-themed patch with scarecrows and photo spots; bookable extras: Lancashire Hawks and Owls Mon 26 Oct, Pumpkin Patch Magic School Thu 29 OctFree

Until 31 Oct

Monster Scare Bear bath bomb workshop at Lush Lush, Manchester Arndale · 25 min Date unconfirmed · Hands-on sessions through to Halloween; press your own bath bomb and sculpt a creature from Rainbow Fun soap; times and price not statedUnder £10

Until 31 Oct

Pumpkin Patch Trail at Gordale Garden and Home Centre Gordale Garden and Home Centre, Burton, Wirral · 60 min Date unconfirmed · Daily 9am-5pm, no bookingUnder £10

Until 31 Oct

Weird Wonders: Halloween at Museum of Illusions Museum of Illusions Manchester, Manchester city centre · 25 min 2-31 Oct, 10am-8pm£10–25

Until 1 Nov

From Here to There: a tour for children Dunham Massey, Altrincham · 10 min Daily 17 Oct - 1 Nov, 11am-4.15pm; collect passport at house entrance£10–25

Until 1 Nov

Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular Circus The Trafford Centre, Trafford Park · 15 min Shows at 12pm, 2.30pm and 5.30pm (times vary by date); about 1hr 45min£10–25

Until 1 Nov

Indoor play space at Quarry Bank (half term) Quarry Bank, Styal · 15 min Daily 16 Oct - 1 Nov, 10.30am-5pm£10–25

Until 1 Nov

Portrait of Black Britain (Cephas Williams photography exhibition) Aviva Studios, Manchester · 30 min Tue-Sun 10am-6pm; closes Sun 1 NovFree

Until 1 Nov

Spooktacular October at Treetop Adventure Golf Treetop Golf, Manchester city centre · 25 min 6 Oct-1 Nov: spot the spooky spiders on both courses to claim a treat; fancy-dress photo booth 24 Oct-1 Nov; open daily from 10am, walk-ins welcomeUnder £10

Until 2 Nov

October Half Term at Elizabeth Gaskell's House Elizabeth Gaskell's House, Manchester · 25 min 19 Oct-2 Nov; house open Wed, Thu and Sun 11am-4.30pm (last entry 3pm); drop-in crafts and trails 11am-3pm; ages 4+Under £10

Until 7 Nov

Kids Comic Art Workshop with Rick Eades Oyez Arts, Altrincham · 10 min Saturdays 17, 24 and 31 Oct and 7 Nov, 10-11.30am (7 Nov at OYEZ Arts, Market St)Under £10

Until 30 Nov

Mini Makers (drop-in craft Mondays) Speke Hall, Speke, Liverpool · 45 min Mondays 19 and 26 Oct; 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Nov; 10.30am-12pm at Home Farm restaurant£10–25

Until 30 Nov

Secret Society Skeleton activity People's History Museum, Manchester · 25 min Museum open daily except TuesdaysFree

Weekly Mon+

Move It Kids: drop-in gymnastics play for under 9s (move Altrincham) move Altrincham · 10 min Mondays 9.30–11am and Tuesdays 7–8pm in the Gymnastics Hub. A parent assists throughout.Under £10

Every Mon

Play and Stay for babies and toddlers at Broomwood Broomwood Community Wellbeing Centre, Mainwood Road, Timperley · 10 min Mondays 10–11am. Drop in, no booking needed.Under £10

Every Mon

Rhymetime at Timperley Library Timperley Library · 10 min Mondays 2–2.30pm. Free tickets on the day, first come first served, 10 children per session.Free

Every Sat

Saturday LEGO Club at Timperley Library Timperley Library · 10 min Saturdays 11am–12pm. Just turn up; space is limited.Free

Weekly Wed+

SEND drop-in gymnastics play at move Altrincham move Altrincham · 10 min Wednesdays 3–4pm, Fridays 12.30–1.30pm, Sundays 2.30–3.30pm. Coach-supervised; a parent or carer stays with their child.Under £10

Every Mon

Storytime at Altrincham Library (under 5s) Altrincham Library · 10 min Mondays 11am. First come, first served on the day.Free

Every Thu

Storytime at Timperley Library Timperley Library · 10 min Thursdays 2–2.30pm, for under-fives. No booking: places go first come first served on the day, up to 10 children.Free

Every Mon

Under-5s storytime at Brooklands Library Brooklands Library, Moor Road, Baguley · 10 min Mondays 11am–12pm, term time only.Free

Until 25 Dec

Sir Alex Ferguson pop-up exhibition National Football Museum, Manchester · 25 min Date unconfirmed · Included with museum admission (annual pass)Under £10

Until 31 Dec

Smithsonian Starstruck: Immersive Space Experience Transmission House, Manchester (Northern Quarter) · 25 min Date unconfirmed · Timed tickets via Fever; runs to end of December£10–25

Until 17 Jan

The Worst Record Covers in the World (free exhibition) Grosvenor Museum, Chester · 50 min During museum opening hoursFree

Until 24 Jan

The North Revisited (photography exhibition, free with admission) Jodrell Bank, Lower Withington (Macclesfield) · 35 min Tue–Sun 10am–5pm (last entry 3.30pm)£10–25

Until 31 Jan

Our Story with David Attenborough (immersive experience) Chester Zoo, Upton, Chester · 45 min Daily 10.30am-4.30pm in 50-min slots (not 25-26 Dec, 20 Jan); evening showings Thu-Sun until 9 Nov£10–25

Until 31 Dec

Dead or Alive: Birds in our World Manchester Museum · 25 min Mainly an online exhibition on the museum's collections website; check with the museum what's on show in the buildingFree

Weekly Tue+

Baby and toddler swims at move Altrincham move Altrincham · 10 min Parent and toddler swim Tuesdays 9.15am; Baby Splash in the teaching pool Tuesdays 11am, Wednesdays 11.30am, Thursdays 12pm; baby and toddler swim Thursdays 2pm. Sessions about 45 minutes.Under £10

Every Tue

Caterpillars baby and toddler group St Mary Magdalene Church, Ashton on Mersey, Ashton upon Mersey · 15 min Tuesdays 1–2.30pm in term time (no session in half-term week)Under £10

Every Tue

Family Drop-In after school at St George’s St George's Church, Altrincham · 10 min Tuesdays 3.30–4.30pm, term time. LEGO, bracelet making, games and a cuppa for grown-ups; aimed at primary-age children.Free

Every Tue

Rhymetime at Hale Library Hale Library · 10 min Tuesdays 2pm. First come, first served (one adult and one child per ticket).Free

Weekly Tue+

SEND swim sessions at move Altrincham move Altrincham · 10 min Tuesdays 10–10.55am (teaching pool), Wednesdays 10.30–11.30am, Saturdays 4–5pm (teaching pool). Book online; check the timetable in school holidays.Under £10

Every Tue

Storytime at Sale Library (under 5s) Sale Library, Waterside · 15 min Tuesdays 10.30am. First come, first served on the day.Free

Every Tue

Under-5s storytime at Forum Library, Wythenshawe Wythenshawe Forum library · 15 min Tuesdays 11–11.30am, term time only.Free

Wed 21 Oct

English National Ballet: Romeo and Juliet Palace Theatre, Manchester city centre · 25 min Wed 21 to Sun 25 Oct; Sat 24 and Sun 25 fall in the half-term weekend£25+

Every Wed

Rhymetime at Coppice Library Sale West Community Centre · 10 min Wednesdays 10.30–11.30am, term time only.Free

Every Wed

Twist & Tales: music and movement for toddlers St George's Church, Altrincham · 10 min Wednesdays 10.15–11.15am, term time only. Singing, dancing and marching games for little ones with their grown-ups.Under £10

Thu 22 Oct

Your Name Here drawing workshop with Sophy Henn Waterstones Altrincham · 10 min Thu 22 Oct, 4pmUnder £10

Thu 22 Oct

Horrible Histories: Terrible Tudors and Awful Egyptians Storyhouse Theatre, Chester · 55 min Thu 22 - Sun 25 Oct; showtimes on booking page£10–25

Thu 22 Oct

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Altrincham Garrick Playhouse · 10 min Thu 22 Oct - Sun 1 Nov; check performance times£10–25

Thu 22 Oct

WayWord Festival (October half-term family programme) Storyhouse, Chester · 55 min Includes free Horrible Hunt 24-25 Oct, storytimes, Aardman Claystations 26 Oct, Oliver Jeffers 28 Oct, Meet The Hatter 31 Oct, Stars and Sto£10–25

Every Thu

Move It Minis: drop-in gymnastics play for under 5s (move Altrincham) move Altrincham · 10 min Thursdays 9.30–11am in the Gymnastics Hub. A parent stays and helps throughout.Under £10

Every Thu

Rhymetime at Altrincham Library Altrincham Library · 10 min Thursdays, two sessions: 10.15–10.45am and 11.15–11.45am. Tickets handed out 15 minutes before each.Free

Fri 23 Oct

Aardman in Concert (Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep with live orchestra) Manchester Central Exchange Auditorium · 30 min Fri 23 Oct 7pm-8.30pm (a relaxed/SEN performance at 1.30pm is also listed); ages 3-103Relaxed Fri 23 Oct£10–25

Fri 23 Oct

Green Libraries Week: Family Eco Craft drop-in (leaf creatures, dried-flower badges, spooky spider plant pots) Bredbury Library, Bredbury, Stockport · 30 min Fri 23 Oct, 2.30-4pm, drop inFree

Fri 23 Oct

Halloween Sensory Storytime: That's Not My Halloween Waterstones Altrincham · 10 min Date unconfirmed · Friday 10–11am. Board-book story with sensory play and songs for babies and toddlers. Free but limited; contact the shop to book.Free

Fri 23 Oct

Threaded Legacies - Black Heritage in Manchester Museum Manchester Museum · 25 min 23–30 OctFree

Fri 23 Oct

Gandeys Circus Halloween Spooktacular Trentham Estate, Stoke-on-Trent · 60 min Fri 23 Oct-Sun 1 Nov in the Big Top at Trentham; show times at booking£10–25

Fri 23 Oct

Halloween at HOME (family films, The Littlest Yak, free Creativity Corner crafts) HOME, Manchester · 30 min Family strand includes Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom (U), Laika's Wildwood and The Littlest Yak (27-29 Oct); free spider-headdress and enchanted-forest crafts downstairs alongside selected family shows; horror double bills are adults-onlyUnder £10

Every Fri

Move It Minis: drop-in gymnastics play for under 5s (Sale Leisure Centre) Sale Leisure Centre, Broad Road · 15 min Fridays 10–11.30am. A parent stays and helps throughout.Under £10

Every Fri

Rhymetime at Partington Library Partington Library and Wellbeing Centre · 20 min Fridays 2pmFree

Every Fri

Rhymetime at Sale Library Sale Library, Waterside · 15 min Fridays, two 30-minute sessions at 10.15am and 11.15amFree

Every Fri

Storytime at Hale Library (under 5s) Hale Library · 10 min Fridays 2pm. First come, first served on the day.Free

Every Fri

Under-5s storytime at Northenden Community Library Northenden Community Library, St Wilfrid's Church Hall, Wythenshawe · 15 min Fridays 11–11.30am, term time only.Free

Sat 24 Oct

ComedySportz: improvised comedy match for families Waterside Arts, Sale · 15 min Saturday 24 October, 6.30pm (about 2 hours with an interval)Under £10

Sat 24 Oct

Green Libraries Week: Saturday craft activities (junk modelling and eco crafts) Trafford Libraries, Altrincham · 10 min Sat 1-2.30pm at libraries across Trafford; just turn upFree

Sat 24 Oct

Haunted Halloween Party (Lyceum Creative Learning) Lyceum Theatre, Crewe · 45 min Date unconfirmed · Sat 24 Oct; listed as a community/creative learning event - times on the Lyceum siteUnder £10

Sat 24 Oct

Little Reads Family Day Manchester Central Library, Manchester city centre · 25 min Roughly 10.30am-3pm, times vary by activity; ages 3+Free

Sat 24 Oct

Meet Jack Skellington, Sally and Oogie Boogie (free face painting) Affinity Lancashire outlet, Fleetwood · 90 min Meet and greets 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm; face painting 11am-4pmFree

Sat 24 Oct

Pressed Flower Pumpkin Decorating Workshop Rufford Old Hall, Rufford, near Ormskirk · 50 min Two sessions: 10am-12.30pm and 1.30-4pm£25+

Sat 24 Oct

Steve Backshall's Deadly Live! M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool · 55 min Sat 24 Oct, doors 1pm, show 2pm£10–25

Sat 24 Oct

Tilly & Primrose Artisan Market at Victoria Baths Victoria Baths, Manchester · 30 min Date unconfirmed · Listed 'from 24 Oct'; 80+ stalls, three bookable workshops, tea room; explore the historic bathsUnder £10

Sat 24 Oct

Autumn Gift Fair in the Tenants' Hall Tatton Park Mansion, Knutsford · 22 min Sat 24 and Sun 25 Oct; free fair entry, standard parkland vehicle charge appliesFree

Sat 24 Oct

Horrible Hunt (free Horrible Histories quest trail) Storyhouse, Chester · 55 min Sat 24 Oct from 9am, Sun 25 Oct from 10am; drop inFree

Sat 24 Oct

Monster Mayhem Ball (kids fancy dress) Charlie Park, Atherton · 35 min Sat 24 Oct, 3.15-6pm (a SEN session runs Sun 25 Oct)SEN session Sun 25 Oct£10–25

Sat 24 Oct

The Enormous Turnip Z-arts, Hulme, Manchester · 20 min 11am and 2pm both days; recommended ages 3-10£10–25

Sat 24 Oct

Wallace & Gromit: A Grand Day Out (live show) Jodrell Bank, Goostrey · 35 min 24–25 OctSold out£10–25

Sat 24 Oct

Romeo and Juliet (For Kids) - WayWord festival Storyhouse, Chester · 55 min Sat 24 - Fri 30 Oct, approx 50 minutesSelling fast£10–25

Sat 24 Oct

LEGO Store Halloween scary-creatures scavenger hunt LEGO Store, Trafford Park · 15 min Store hours; find the brick-built creatures hidden in store for a treat while supplies lastFree

Sat 24 Oct

Little Scare-lings Halloween afternoon tea and potion making Dobbies Garden Centre, Marple · 30 min Date unconfirmed · 24, 25, 29, 30 and 31 Oct; 90-min sessions; ages 3-10; glow-in-the-dark slime potion, decorate a trick-or-treat bag, games; fancy dress prize£10–25

Sat 24 Oct

World of Wizardry (20-minute wizarding class) The Ice Cream Farm, Tattenhall, Chester · 55 min Timed 20-minute sessions daily 24-31 Oct; SEN-friendly sessions also runSEN sessionUnder £10

Sat 24 Oct

Apprentice House Spooky Tours Quarry Bank, Styal · 15 min Daily 10:45am-3:45pm£10–25

Sat 24 Oct

Boo! Planet Aquarium (Halloween half term) Blue Planet Aquarium, Ellesmere Port · 45 min Daily 10am-5pm£25+

Sat 24 Oct

Branching Out: October half-term family art Tate Liverpool + RIBA North · 55 min Daily 10am-4pmFree

Sat 24 Oct

National Frightball Museum (Halloween half term) National Football Museum, Manchester · 25 min Sat 24 Oct - Sun 1 Nov, activities 10am-4pm; The Riddler 12pm-2pm£10–25

Sat 24 Oct

October half term at IWM North: Story Seekers trail, Making a Museum hub and We Were There IWM North, Trafford Park · 25 min Story Seekers drop-in trail daily 24 Oct-1 Nov 10am-4pm; Making a Museum family hub Mon 26-Fri 30 Oct; meet veterans and eyewitnesses Wed 28 Oct 11am-3pmFree

Sat 24 Oct

October half term: Aliens have landed Science and Industry Museum, Castlefield, Manchester · 25 min Daily 10am-4pm; animation sessions 10.20-12.20 & 13.20-16.20Free

Sat 24 Oct

October Half Term: Myths & Legends Eureka! Science + Discovery, Seacombe, Wirral · 60 min Wed-Fri 10am-3pm, Sat-Sun 10am-4pm; workshops at 10.30, 11.30, 12.30, 1.30, 2.30£10–25

Sat 24 Oct

October Half Term: School of Witchcraft & Wizardry Eureka! The National Children's Museum, Halifax · 50 min School of Witchcraft & Wizardry Mon 26 - Fri 30 Oct; Story Postcards 24-25 Oct and 31 Oct-1 Nov£10–25

Sat 24 Oct

Paper Pumpkin Trail Weaver Hall Museum and Workhouse, Northwich · 35 min 24 Oct – 1 NovUnder £10

Sat 24 Oct

Wicked Week at Magna (magic show, fizzing potion workshops, spooky inflatables) Magna Science Adventure Centre, Rotherham · 75 min Magic show Mon-Fri 26-30 Oct at 10.30am, 11.45am, 1pm; potion workshops daily 11am-2pm hourly£10–25

Every Sat

Float session at Sale Leisure Centre Sale Leisure Centre, Broad Road · 15 min Saturdays 11–11.55am in the club pool.Under £10

Every Sat

LEGO club at Altrincham Library Altrincham Library · 10 min Saturdays 11am–12pm. Just turn up; spaces are limited. Duplo for little ones too.Free

Every Sat

LEGO club at Coppice Library Sale West Community Centre · 10 min Saturdays 10–11.30am. No booking; spaces are limited.Free

Every Sat

LEGO club at Hale Library Hale Library · 10 min Saturdays 11am–12pm. Drop in; spaces are limited.Free

Every Sat

LEGO club at Sale Library Sale Library, Waterside · 15 min Saturdays 11am–12pm. Drop in; spaces are limited.Free

Every Sat

Under-8s family swim at move Altrincham move Altrincham · 10 min Saturdays 2–2.55pm. General swims also run Saturdays 2–4pm. Bookable online.Under £10

Sat 24 Oct

Camera Obscura: Experiments in Animation (free exhibition) Waterside Arts, Sale · 15 min Gallery hours; animated shorts shown with their hand-drawn framesFree

Sat 24 Oct

Adventures in Wonderland (interactive play experience, ages 1-8) Z-arts, Hulme, Manchester · 25 min Selected days, 10am and 11.30am sessions (1 hour)Relaxed Sat 14 NovUnder £10

Sun 25 Oct

Children's Halloween Craft Day (Be Wild Creative) The Bridgewater, Worsley · 25 min Sun 25 Oct 10.30am-12pm (Eventbrite confirms Sunday); ages 5+, adult stays on siteUnder £10

Sun 25 Oct

Cooking Together: Parent & Child Cookery Class Cheshire Cookery School, Altrincham · 10 min Sun 25 Oct, 10am-1pm£25+

Sun 25 Oct

Halloween Spooktacular open day at Wythenshawe Hall Wythenshawe Hall · 15 min Sun 25 Oct, 11am-4pm (last entry 3.30pm)Under £10

Sun 25 Oct

Not Now, Bernard (Roustabout Theatre) Waterside Arts, Sale · 10 min Sun 25 Oct, 2.30pm£10–25

Sun 25 Oct

Raver Tots Halloween Party Escape to Freight Island, Manchester city centre · 25 min Sun 25 Oct, 10am-12pm£10–25

Sun 25 Oct

Slice to Meet You, Phil Corbett! (comic-making workshop) Waterstones Altrincham · 10 min Sun 25 Oct, 10-11amUnder £10

Sun 25 Oct

The Illusion of Life: Kids' Stop Motion Animation Workshop Oyez Arts, Altrincham · 10 min Sun 25 Oct, 10am-1pm; bring a smartphone£10–25

Sun 25 Oct

The Illusion of Life: stop-motion animation workshop for kids Oyez Arts, Altrincham · 10 min Sun 25 Oct 10am-1pm at Oyez Arts (WA14 1PF); run by Carson Animation£10–25

Sun 25 Oct

The Wind in the Willows (Box Tale Soup puppet show) Storyhouse, Chester · 55 min Sun 25 Oct, 11.30am and 2pm; 60 minutes no interval£10–25

Mon 26 Oct

Aardman in Concert (Wallace and Gromit, Shaun the Sheep with live orchestra) Storyhouse, Chester · 55 min Mon 26 Oct, 1.30pm and 3.30pm; Aardman Claystations clay workshops the same morning are sold out£10–25

Mon 26 Oct

Broomstick Making Workshop Ordsall Hall, Salford · 20 min Mon 26 Oct, sessions at 11am, 1pm and 2pm; ages 6+Under £10

Mon 26 Oct

Frightfully Fascinating Workshop with Animal Teach Norton Priory Museum & Gardens, Runcorn · 40 min Mon 26 Oct, sessions 10.30am, 12pm and 1.30pm£10–25

Mon 26 Oct

K-Pop Dance Heroes (KPop Demon Hunters hits live) Stockport Plaza · 30 min Mon 26 Oct, 7pm£10–25

Mon 26 Oct

Kids Halloween Glass Fusing Workshop GRIT Studios, Stockport · 30 min Mon 26 Oct, 11am-1pmSold out£10–25

Mon 26 Oct

Musical Theatre Masterclass (ages 7-12) Palace Theatre, Manchester city centre · 25 min Mon 26 Oct, 10am–4pmSold out£10–25

Mon 26 Oct

YO! Spooky Sushi School (kids' Halloween sushi-making class) YO! Sushi, Trafford Park · 15 min Mon 26 Oct 10-11am plus other half-term dates on the booking page; ages 5+; prize for best costume£10–25

Mon 26 Oct

Half Term Spooky Crafts at North Manchester Libraries Newton Heath, North Manchester · 30 min Mon 26 Newton Heath; Tue 27 North City; Wed 28 Abraham Moss and New Moston; Thu 29 Beswick and Miles Platting; Fri 30 Avenue; all 2-3pmFree

Mon 26 Oct

Halloween Arts and Craft Half Term MogeMoge Art Education, Altrincham · 10 min Mon 26 - Fri 30 Oct, 10am-3pm; ages 5-9 and 10-14£25+

Mon 26 Oct

Octopia: Half Term Drama Workshop (Garrick Academy, ages 6-18) Altrincham Garrick Playhouse · 10 min Mon 26 - Fri 30 Oct, 10am-4pm daily; book single days or the week£25+

Mon 26 Oct

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min Mon 26 Oct - Sun 1 Nov; check times£10–25

Tue 27 Oct

Craft and Story October Half Term at Eastham Library Eastham Library, Eastham, Wirral · 55 min Tue 27 Oct 2.30-3.30pm; free (Wirral Libraries)Free

Tue 27 Oct

Farshore Funny Fest with Beano (half-term comedy book day) Storyhouse, Chester · 55 min Tue 27 Oct from 10am; book the headline Beano event plus one free act (Big Beano Draw-along now full)Selling fastUnder £10

Tue 27 Oct

Halloween half-term disco at Urmston Library Urmston Library · 20 min Tue 5-6pm; costumes encouraged, prizes for best dressedFree

Tue 27 Oct

October Half-term Drama Day: Doorway to Dimensions! (ages 5-11) The Met, Bury · 40 min Tue 27 Oct, 10am-4pm£25+

Tue 27 Oct

Stories Around the Camp Fire with the League of Curiosity (Heaton Park half term) Heaton Park classroom by the Stables Cafe, Prestwich · 30 min Tue 27 Oct, 11am show (arrive 10.50am), about 30 mins; ages 5+; £2 per ticket on the door. Same week: free slime making 26 Oct 10.30am, free lantern workshop 27 Oct 12-1pm, microscope drop-in 28 Oct, Hidden Horrors trail booklet from receptionUnder £10

Tue 27 Oct

The Brain Bending Science Illusion Show The Met, Bury · 40 min Tue 27 Oct, 2pm; ages 6+£10–25

Tue 27 Oct

Self-Led Crafts: Spooky Museum Grosvenor Museum, Chester · 50 min Tue 27 & Wed 28 Oct, drop inFree

Tue 27 Oct

Children's Crafting: paint your own ceramics Bents Garden & Home, Glazebury · 25 min Tue 27 and Thu 29 Oct, 10am-1pm; pay on the dayUnder £10

Tue 27 Oct

Little Terrors Trail The Trafford Centre, Trafford Park · 15 min Tue 27 to Thu 29 Oct, 11am-4pm dailyFree

Tue 27 Oct

School of Witchcraft & Wizardry at Hoghton Tower Hoghton Tower, Hoghton, Preston · 55 min About 2-hour sessions; ages 7-12 only, one accompanying adult per child; children's lunch package £6£10–25

Tue 27 Oct

The Littlest Yak HOME, Manchester · 30 min Tue 27 - Thu 29 Oct£10–25

Tue 27 Oct

Creative Kids Half-Term Art Club (polymer clay, fairy house pot) Broadstone Mill Shopping Outlet, Reddish, Stockport · 25 min Tue 27 Oct polymer clay 10.30am-12pm; Wed 28 and Fri 30 Oct further sessions£10–25

Tue 27 Oct

Halloween half term at Salford Museum (Junk Monsters, Crafty Ghosts, Clay Ghosts, spooky storytime) Salford Museum and Art Gallery · 30 min Junk Monsters Tue 27 Oct 10-11am and 11.30am-12.30pm (£3, book); Crafty Ghosts Thu 29 Oct and Clay Ghosts Fri 30 Oct (£3 each, book); spooky keyring (29 Oct) and spooky storytime (27 Oct) freeUnder £10

Tue 27 Oct

Half term family fun at Manchester Museum Manchester Museum · 25 min Tue 27 - Sat 31 Oct, 10am-5pm: Waste to Wonder building (28-29 Oct), Billie Bee storytime (28 and 30 Oct, ages 2-7, book on the day), Halloween eco-makes with Biffa (30 Oct), CALFE storytelling (31 Oct)Free

Tue 27 Oct

Sir Charlie Stinky Socks and the Really Big Adventure Liverpool Playhouse · 55 min Tue 27 - Sat 31 Oct; daytime shows e.g. 2pm and 4pm on 27 Oct£10–25

Wed 28 Oct

Beano Presents Dennis the Menace's Year of Mischief! Z-arts, Hulme, Manchester · 20 min 11am-12pm; ages 6+£10–25

Wed 28 Oct

Family pumpkin carving at Kampasi Kampasi Restaurant, Sale Moor · 15 min Wednesday 28 October, 4–7.30pm£10–25

Wed 28 Oct

Halloween Fun Day at Smithills Hall Smithills Hall, Bolton · 35 min Wed 28 Oct, 11am-3pmFree

Wed 28 Oct

Is Generosity Incompatible with a Rising Cost of Living? (free family research day) Manchester Central Library · 25 min Wed 28 Oct, 10am-3.30pm drop-inFree

Wed 28 Oct

Meet the Gruffalo! (Gruffalo Granny story session) Waterstones Altrincham · 10 min Wed 2pm per Waterstones (Visit Altrincham lists 10am - check when booking); one adult per family askedUnder £10

Wed 28 Oct

Museum Explorers: Halloween Potions Weaver Hall Museum and Workhouse, Northwich · 35 min Wed 28 Oct, sessions 11am and 12pmUnder £10

Wed 28 Oct

October half-term spooky crafts at Gawthorpe Hall Gawthorpe Hall, Padiham, Burnley · 60 min Wed 28 Oct 12-4pmUnder £10

Wed 28 Oct

Pumpkin Paper Plate Wreaths at Halton Lea Library Halton Lea Library, Runcorn · 45 min Wed 28 Oct 11am-12.30pm; free, no booking neededFree

Wed 28 Oct

Spooky Halloween Reptile Extravaganza (Torrs Exotics meet and greet, lunch included) Mabel's Cafe & Tea Room, Altrincham · 10 min Wed 28 Oct, from 2.30pm£10–25

Wed 28 Oct

The World of Oliver Jeffers (author event) Storyhouse, Chester · 55 min Wed 28 Oct, 11am; 60 minutes£10–25

Wed 28 Oct

Witchy Wednesday (pumpkin carving, creepy crafts, face painting, fancy dress) Congleton Town Hall · 45 min Wed 28 Oct, timed sessions 11am-12pm (sold out), 12.30-1.30pm, 2-3pmSelling fastUnder £10

Wed 28 Oct

Self-Led Crafts: Creepy Bats and Spiders Lion Salt Works, Northwich · 30 min Wed 28 & Thu 29 Oct, 10.30am-3.30pmFree

Wed 28 Oct

Spooky Family Tea (hot meal, Halloween crafts, dress-up competition) Bents Garden & Home, Glazebury · 25 min Wed 28 and Thu 29 Oct, 5-6.30pmSold out£10–25

Wed 28 Oct

Canaletto free drop-in craft workshops Tatton Park, Knutsford · 22 min Wed 28 Oct, Sat 31 Oct and Sun 1 NovUnder £10

Thu 29 Oct

Claymation Workshop: Boo the Halloween Ghost (SOLD OUT) Waterside Arts, Sale · 10 min Thu 29 Oct - now showing as Sold Out on the Waterside siteSold outUnder £10

Thu 29 Oct

Family Art Workshop with Michelle Leigh Warrington Museum & Art Gallery · 30 min Thu 29 Oct, 1pm-3pm; max 15 participants, children must be accompaniedFree

Thu 29 Oct

Free Halloween Mini Disco with Wednesday Kargo MKT, Salford Quays · 25 min Date unconfirmed · Thu 10am-12pm; bubbles, games, face painting; kids eat free during the holidaysFree

Thu 29 Oct

Grosvenor Museum's 140th Birthday Party (free half-term drop-in) Grosvenor Museum, Chester · 55 min Thu 10.30am–3.30pm; Victorian birthday party in the Roman Chester Gallery; highlights tours 11am daily 27–30 OctFree

Thu 29 Oct

Halloween half-term disco at Timperley Library Timperley Library · 3 min Thu 5-6pm; costumes encouraged, prizes for best dressedFree

Thu 29 Oct

Halloween party at Let Loose soft play Stanley Square, Sale · 15 min Date unconfirmed · Thursday 29 October, 5.30–7.30pm£10–25

Thu 29 Oct

Kids Pizza Making at The General Elliot The General Elliot, Croft, Warrington · 30 min Thu 29 Oct, 12pm and 3.30pm sessions (Thursdays in school holidays)£10–25

Thu 29 Oct

Kids' Halloween Disco at Nell's (hosted by the Sanderson Sisters) Nell's Pizza, Altrincham · 10 min Thu 3-5pm; pizza and goodies sold on the dayUnder £10

Thu 29 Oct

Magic Makers: Mystical Magic School Chetham's Library, Manchester · 25 min Thu 29 Oct, 2-4pmUnder £10

Thu 29 Oct

Halloween Party at The Ice Cream Farm The Ice Cream Farm, Tattenhall · 55 min Thu 29 & Fri 30 Oct, 4.30pm-6pm£10–25

Thu 29 Oct

Myth, Magic and Mystery at the Old Hall Tatton Park, Knutsford · 22 min 29–31 Oct£10–25

Fri 30 Oct

Creepy Crawly Halloween Experience Flixton House, Urmston · 20 min Fri 30 Oct, 11am–12pm or 12.20–1.20pmUnder £10

Fri 30 Oct

Ghost Puppets (Halloween craft) Stockport Museum · 25 min Fri 30 Oct, 10am-12pm drop-inFree

Fri 30 Oct

Halloween Cartoon Drawing Workshop with Marc Jackson Warrington Market · 30 min Fri 30 Oct, one-hour sessions at 11am and 1pm£10–25

Fri 30 Oct

Halloween Crafts in the Creative Space (squishy making, diamond painting, log decorating) Wythenshawe Forum library · 15 min Fri 30 Oct, sessions 1.30-2.30pm and 3-4pm; ages 8+, under-13s dropped off and signed inFree

Fri 30 Oct

Halloween Family Party in the Blackpool Tower Ballroom (Monster Magic Show, UV show, fancy dress competition) The Blackpool Tower Ballroom · 85 min Fri 30 Oct 7pm-11pm£10–25

Fri 30 Oct

Halloween in Concert (live band spooky hits, fancy-dress prize) Stockport Plaza · 30 min Fri 30 Oct, 7.30pm£10–25

Fri 30 Oct

Halloween Torchlight Tours at Samlesbury Hall Samlesbury Hall, Samlesbury, Preston · 55 min Fri 30 Oct, 6pm-11:30pm (last entry 10:30pm); tours about 60 min£10–25

Fri 30 Oct

Kids Spooky Potion Making The General Elliot, Croft, Warrington · 30 min Fri 30 Oct, sessions at 12pm and 3.30pm£10–25

Fri 30 Oct

Little Monsters Ball kids' Halloween party The Little B, Marsland Road, Sale · 10 min Date unconfirmed · Friday 30 October, from 12pmFree

Fri 30 Oct

Michael Rosen: Nice! (80th birthday poetry show) Buxton Opera House · 40 min Fri 30 Oct, 7.30pm; about 1 hr 10 mins; all ages£10–25

Fri 30 Oct

Monster Face Craft at Ditton Library Ditton Library, Widnes · 50 min Fri 30 Oct 11am-12.30pm; free, no booking neededFree

Fri 30 Oct

Spooky goings-on at Stockport Museum: gruesome trail and sugar skull masks Stockport Museum · 25 min Fri 30 Oct, 1pm-3pm mask craft (ghost puppets 10am the same day); gruesome trail and craft table all half-term weekFree

Sat 31 Oct

Arc Saturday Art Club Hat Works, Stockport · 30 min Last Saturday of the month - check timesUnder £10

Sat 31 Oct

Autumn Fayre Stockport Town Hall · 25 min Sat 31 Oct, 10am-4pmFree

Sat 31 Oct

Creepy Crafts with Our Kids Social (pumpkin-patch headbands) Market Walk, Sale · 15 min Sat 31 Oct, 45-min sessions at 1.30pm and 2.30pm; ages 3+Free

Sat 31 Oct

Dayglo of the Dead Family Rave with Our Kids Social Waterside Arts, Sale · 15 min Sat 31 Oct, 2.30pmSold outUnder £10

Sat 31 Oct

Family Friendly Broadway Rave (Halloween musicals party) Storyhouse, Chester · 55 min Sat 31 Oct, 1pm-4pm; fancy dress encouraged£10–25

Sat 31 Oct

Family Halloween Disco Ramsbottom Civic Hall, Ramsbottom, Bury · 40 min Sat 31 Oct, 6-8.30pm (last entry 6.30pm)Under £10

Sat 31 Oct

Family Halloween Silent Disco at Chorlton Library Chorlton Library · 20 min Date unconfirmed · Sat 5.30-7pm; headphones, games and spooky crafts; listing shows limited availabilityFree

Sat 31 Oct

Flip into Wonder with CALFE (children's authors, storytelling, drums, mask-making) Manchester Museum · 25 min Sat 11.30am–4pmFree

Sat 31 Oct

Haigh Monster Mash (family Halloween party) Haigh Woodland Park, Wigan · 35 min Sat 31 Oct, 2pm-4pm, marquee on the small car parkUnder £10

Sat 31 Oct

Halloween Craft: decorate your own trick-or-treat bag Merseyway Shopping Centre, Stockport · 30 min Sat 31 Oct from 11am; free drop-inFree

Sat 31 Oct

Halloween Crafty Kids Pop Up Heald Green Library, Heald Green, Cheadle · 20 min Sat 31 Oct, 11.30am-12.30pmFree

Sat 31 Oct

Halloween Creative Workshop (ages 7-12) Hazel Grove Bowling and Tennis Club · 30 min Sat 31 Oct, 2-3.30pmSold out£10–25

Sat 31 Oct

Halloween Ghost Tour at Hoghton Tower Hoghton Tower, Hoghton, Preston · 55 min Evening tour£10–25

Sat 31 Oct

Halloween Kids Fancy Dress Party Sale West Community Centre · 10 min Sat 31 Oct, 2-4pmUnder £10

Sat 31 Oct

Halloween Magic: Family Craft and Pumpkin Party Mabel's Cafe & Tea Rooms, Altrincham · 10 min Sat 31 Oct, 10.30am-12pm£10–25

Sat 31 Oct

Joss Arnott Dance: Meet The Hatter Storyhouse, Chester · 55 min Sat 31 Oct, 2pm; 65 minutes no interval£10–25

Sat 31 Oct

Kids Halloween Games and Crafts Grill on the Green, Worsley · 25 min Sat 31 Oct 2-3pm at Grill on the Green, Beesley Green, Worsley M28 2QWSold outFree

Sat 31 Oct

Kreepy Kargo: Our Kids Social Halloween Party Kargo MKT, Salford Quays · 25 min Sat 31 Oct 10am-12pm; DJ, silent disco, LEGO, crafts, mystery trail, foam machine, circus skills, face painting; best for 10 and underUnder £10

Sat 31 Oct

Light Party (glow-themed Halloween alternative) St Mary Magdalene Church, Ashton on Mersey, Ashton upon Mersey · 15 min Saturday 31 October, 5.30–7pmFree

Sat 31 Oct

Little Monsters Halloween Ball Irish World Heritage Centre, Cheetham Hill, Manchester · 25 min Date unconfirmed · Sat 31 Oct 5pm-8pm; £5 per person; book via the centreUnder £10

Sat 31 Oct

Make a Flying Bat Stockport War Memorial Art Gallery · 30 min Sat 31 Oct, 2-4pm drop-inFree

Sat 31 Oct

Mega Halloween Party (Born To Be Wild Child Monster Mash) Aviva Studios, Manchester · 30 min Sat 31 Oct, sessions 11am-1pm and 2.30pm-4.30pmUnder £10

Sat 31 Oct

Monster Disco (Headstrung Puppets) - SOLD OUT Z-arts, Hulme, Manchester · 20 min Sat 31 Oct 12pm and 2.30pm; ages 4-8; both performances listed as sold outSold out£10–25

Sat 31 Oct

Room on the Broom - Interactive Halloween Storytelling The Garden Bar Monton, Monton, Salford · 25 min Listing shows '12:00am til 2:00pm' (likely a midday start); confirm timeUnder £10

Sat 31 Oct

The Light Stop! (free family Halloween evening) Church on the Brow, Altrincham · 10 min Sat 5.00-7.30pmFree

Sat 31 Oct

The Magic Stick (Indian dance, storytelling and stage magic) The Met, Bury · 40 min Sat 31 Oct, 2pm; 40-45 minutes plus Q&A; recommended ages 6-12£10–25

Sat31Oct

Ultimate Family Halloween Disco Alford Hall Sports and Social Club, Warrington · 30 min Sat 3-6pm; fancy dress competition, live DJUnder £10

Sat 31 Oct

Little Monsters Breakfast Banquet for Halloween The Ivy Spinningfields, Manchester · 30 min Date unconfirmed · Sat 31 Oct and Sun 1 Nov, morning sitting£25+

Until 1 Nov

Brick or Treat Monster Party LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Manchester, Trafford Park · 15 min Daily 26 Sep - 1 Nov; centre open 10.30am-6pm (last entry 3.45pm)£10–25

Until 8 Nov

Ascarium: Tricks & Treats Sea Life Manchester, Trafford Centre · 15 min 26 Sep – 8 Nov£10–25

Until 15 Nov

Mythic Reinvention: costumes from 50 years of the Royal Exchange Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester · 25 min 16 Sep – 15 NovFree

Until 14 Feb

Rae-Yen Song: •~TUA~• 大眼 •~MAK~• (free glowing-pond installation) FACT, 88 Wood Street, Liverpool · 55 min Wed–Sun 11am–6pmFree

Until 1 Nov

Head, Shoulders, Knees & Goals National Football Museum, Manchester · 25 min 27 Mar – 1 Nov£10–25

Until 15 Nov

Beneath the Great Wave: Hokusai and Hiroshige The Whitworth, Manchester · 25 min Closes Sun 15 Nov; gallery open Tue-SunFree

Until 1 Nov

Human Natures (exhibition, final week) Manchester Museum · 25 min Closes Sun 1 Nov; museum closed MondaysFree

Until 28 Feb

National Museums Liverpool at 40 (free exhibition: Titanic artefacts and treasures from seven museums) World Museum, Liverpool · 55 min Date unconfirmed · Museum opening hoursFree

Until 1 Nov

Wild Things: free animal storybook exhibition The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min 18 Jul – 1 NovFree

Until 31 Jan

Warrington Wolves: A Game For All (free rugby league exhibition) - final weeks Warrington Museum & Art Gallery · 30 min Museum opening hoursFree

Until 3 Jan

2026 Banner Exhibition with family Banner Bingo trail People's History Museum, Manchester · 25 min Open daily except Tuesdays, 10am–4pmFree

Until 3 Jan

Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos Science and Industry Museum, Castlefield, Manchester · 25 min 13 Feb 2026 – 3 Jan£10–25

Until 10 Jan

Your Salford 100 (centenary exhibition of 100 objects chosen by Salfordians) - final weeks Salford Museum and Art Gallery · 30 min Museum opening hoursFree

Until 4 Apr

Performing Trees (free collection exhibition) - closes 4 April The Whitworth, Manchester (Whitworth Park) · 25 min Gallery opening hoursFree

Sun 1 Nov

Family Halloween Party at John Street Social John Street Social, Droylsden · 30 min Sun 1 Nov, 1-5pmUnder £10

Sun 1 Nov

Halloween Family Feastival Boxpark Liverpool, Baltic Triangle, Liverpool · 55 min Sun 1 Nov 12-4pm; free kids' crafts from 12pm, kids' Halloween quiz 1pm, free face painting, games and entertainer; fancy dress encouraged£25+

Sun 1 Nov

Manchester Storm v Cardiff Devils (half-term ice hockey) AO Arena, Manchester city centre · 25 min Sun 1 Nov, starts 5.30pm£10–25

Sun 1 Nov

Mischief Under the Moon: family Halloween day party Campfield House, Castlefield, Manchester · 30 min Sun 1 Nov, 2-4pm (last entry 3.45pm)Under £10

Sun 1 Nov

Read and Make: There's a Ghost in This House Waterstones Altrincham · 10 min Sun 10-11am; ideal for ages 3-7, all welcomeFree

Sun 1 Nov

Steve Backshall's Deadly Live! Winter Gardens Opera House, Blackpool · 70 min Sun 1 Nov, 2pm (doors 1.30pm)£25+

Sun 1 Nov

The Nick Cope Family Show Waterside Arts, Sale · 10 min Sun 1 Nov, 11am & 2pmSelling fast£10–25

Mon 2 Nov

Hallé Relaxed Concert for young families (November) Hallé St Peter's, Ancoats, Manchester · 25 min Mon 2 Nov 2.30pm (mixed audience); Tue 3 Nov 11am (young families). About 50 minutes.Relaxed Mon 2 NovUnder £10

Wed 4 Nov

Manchester Museum Celebrates Diwali Manchester Museum · 25 min Wed 4 Nov, 4pm-9pm; drop inFree

Thu 5 Nov

Walkabout Father Christmas in store Bents Garden & Home, Glazebury · 25 min Daily from 5 Nov: weekdays 2-6pm, weekends 12-4pm (check the page for later December times)Free

Thu 5 Nov

Bramall Hall Decorated for Christmas 2026: A Musical Celebration Bramall Hall, Bramhall, Stockport · 25 min Hall opening days from Thu 5 Nov to Sun 3 Jan, from 11am (council listings run in weekly blocks through Dec 29-31 and Jan 2-3)Under £10

Thu 5 Nov

The Elf Trail at Bramall Hall Bramall Hall, Bramhall, Stockport · 25 min Runs on hall opening days from Thu 5 Nov to Sun 3 Jan (11am-4.30pm, last admission 3.45pm); no trail on 5-6 Dec, bank holidays or Christmas closureUnder £10

Fri 6 Nov

Magic at the Mansion: Christmas at Harewood (Studio McGuire) Harewood House, Leeds · 95 min Timed house slots; weekdays 10am-4pm, weekends and 21-23 Dec 10am-5.30pm; closed 25-26 Dec£25+

Sat 7 Nov

Storytime with Ian Rudolfer-Arnold Bredbury Library, Bredbury, Stockport · 30 min Sat 7 Nov, 11amFree

Sat 7 Nov

The Big Story Bash (family storytelling festival with Frank Cottrell-Boyce) Floral Pavilion, New Brighton, Wirral · 60 min Sat 7 Nov 2026, 10:30am to 5:00pm; author talks, comic-making and workshops in timed sessionsUnder £10

Sun 8 Nov

Hay! (wordless clown and puppet show about a scarecrow growing up) The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min Date unconfirmed · Sun; time not confirmed£10–25

Tue 10 Nov

Crown Ballet presents The Nutcracker Stockport Plaza · 30 min Tue 7.30pm (performed to recorded music)£10–25

Tue 10 Nov

The Prince of Egypt (JS80 musical) Waterside Arts, Sale · 15 min Tue-Sat 7.30pm; suitable for 5+Selling fast£10–25

Tue 10 Nov

CATS Palace Theatre, Manchester · 25 min Tue 10 - Sat 21 Nov; check matinee times£10–25

Wed 11 Nov

The Nutcracker (touring ballet) Parr Hall, Warrington · 30 min Wed 7.30pm£10–25

Wed 11 Nov

A Christmas Carol (Charles Dickens plays 30 characters, ages 8+) Stockport Plaza · 30 min Wed 11 and Thu 12 Nov; times on the booking page£10–25

Thu 12 Nov

Comic Workshop with Jeffrey Brown (LEGO: Nikolas Nurdblok and the Lost Brick) Waterstones Altrincham · 10 min Thu 12 Nov, 4pmUnder £10

Fri 13 Nov

The Snowman: Live with Yorkshire Imperial Band Stockport Plaza · 30 min Fri 13 Nov, 7pm; Cert U£10–25

Sat 14 Nov

RSPCA Altrincham branch Christmas Fair (with visiting owls) The Larkhill Centre, 13 Thorley Lane, Timperley · 10 min Date unconfirmed · Saturday 12 noon–3pm. Craft stalls, tombola, toys and cakes, plus owls to meet.Free

Sat 14 Nov

WYC Makes: free drop-in making workshop led by young artists The Whitworth, Manchester · 25 min Sat 1pm–3pm, drop in; run by and mainly for teenagers and young adultsFree

Sat 14 Nov

Zoology Club with Animal Teach (hands-on animal encounters by age group) Norton Priory Museum & Gardens, Runcorn · 40 min Sat; sessions 10.15am, 11.45am or 1.15pm by age group£10–25

Sat 14 Nov

Crafted 2026: designer-makers fair at OYEZ Arts Oyez Arts, Altrincham · 20 min Sat 14 and Sun 15 Nov; opening hours not yet listedFree

Sat 14 Nov

Gladiators Live Tour AO Arena, Manchester city centre · 25 min Sat 14 and Sun 15 Nov; times on AO Arena listing£25+

Sat 14 Nov

High Jinx contemporary variety show at the Blackpool Tower Circus The Blackpool Tower Circus · 85 min Sat 14, Sun 15, Sat 28 and Sun 29 Nov, 2.30pm£10–25

Sat 14 Nov

What Santa Sees (Space Dome show) Jodrell Bank, Lower Withington · 35 min Weekends 14 Nov-20 Dec at 10.30 & 14.00 (plus 12.00 from 5 Dec); Mon 21-Wed 23 Dec at 10.30, 12.00, 14.00Under £10

Sat 14 Nov

Believe! The Polar Express Experience O2 Victoria Warehouse, Trafford Wharf, Manchester · 25 min Date unconfirmed · 14 Nov-31 Dec; session times not listedRelaxed£25+

Sat 14 Nov

The Rock 'n' Roll Panto: Beauty and the Beast Liverpool Everyman · 55 min Sat 14 Nov - Sat 16 Jan; relaxed, BSL, captioned and audio-described performances availableSelling fastRelaxed Thu 14 Jan

Sun 15 Nov

MC Grammar: The Mic Drop Tour (family rap and reading party) The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min Date unconfirmed · Sun; time not confirmed£10–25

Sun 15 Nov

Miss Americana - A Tribute to Taylor Swift The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester · 30 min Sun 15 Nov, 6pm (doors 5.30pm, finish approx 8pm)£10–25

Sun 15 Nov

Wythenshawe Hall open day: World War I Remembered Wythenshawe Hall · 10 min Sunday 11am–4pm (last entry 3.30pm). Volunteer-run themed open day in the Tudor hall for Remembrance.Under £10

Tue 17 Nov

Festive Fayre Evening at Summerseat Garden Centre Summerseat Garden Centre, Bury · 45 min Tue 17 and Wed 18 Nov, 5pm-8pm; also Supper with Santa Thu 17 Dec 5.30-7.30pm and an Enchanted Elevator & Grotto (dates not yet listed)Under £10

Tue 17 Nov

A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong Opera House Manchester, Manchester city centre · 30 min Tue 17 to Sat 21 Nov; times on ATG£25+

Wed 18 Nov

The Little Mermaid (South Manchester AOS panto) Z-arts, Hulme, Manchester · 20 min Wed 18 - Fri 20 Nov 7.30pm; Sat 21 Nov 12.30pm & 5.30pm£10–25

Thu 19 Nov

Elf The Musical (BOST Musicals) Liverpool Empire · 55 min Thu 19 - Sun 22 Nov£10–25

Fri 20 Nov

A Trail of Tails: Christmas in the House Dunham Massey, Altrincham · 10 min Daily 10am-3pm, last entry 3pm£10–25

Fri 20 Nov

Grotto on the Square (Santa's Enchanted Elevator and gingerbread grotto) Eastgate Square, Chester · 55 min Fri 20 Nov to Christmas Eve; bookings openSEN session£10–25

Fri 20 Nov

HARIBO Holly Jolly Grotto (early-bird family bundles until 2 Nov; SEND sessions) The Trafford Centre, Trafford Park · 15 min Timed 30-minute sessions; weekday mornings off-peak until 18 DecSEN session£10–25

Fri 20 Nov

Santa at Knowsley Safari (daytime and Enchanted-evening grotto) Knowsley Safari, Prescot · 40 min Evening grotto 20 Nov–23 Dec with Enchanted; daytime grotto 21 Nov–24 Dec with safari admission; SEN evening 9 Dec£10–25

Fri 20 Nov

The Grotto at the Corn Exchange (immersive Santa experience) Corn Exchange, Manchester · 25 min Daily timed slots; ~30 mins of elf missions then Santa; gift per child; Whispering Winter quieter SEN sessions on selected dates; December weekends already ~75% soldSelling fastSEN session

Fri 20 Nov

Cinderella (Sally Cookson & Adam Peck) Octagon Theatre, Bolton · 40 min Fri 20 Nov - Sat 9 Jan; check performance timesRelaxed Sun 3 Jan£10–25

Fri 20 Nov

The Manifold of Memory: immersive felt installation by Gulnur Mukazhanova The Whitworth, Manchester · 25 min Gallery open daily 10am–5pm (Thu to 9pm)Free

Sat 21 Nov

Mr Bear's Christmas - author storytime Pear Tree Books, Tarporley · 45 min Sat 3pm; free but ticket required to manage numbersSold outFree

Sat 21 Nov

Christmas at Astley Hall (Nutcracker-themed decorated hall) and An Audience with Father Christmas Astley Hall, Chorley · 50 min Hall dressed Sat 21 Nov-Sun 20 Dec; Father Christmas weekends only, ticketed personal family meetingNot on sale yet£10–25

Sat 21 Nov

Meet Father Christmas in the Power Hall Science and Industry Museum, Castlefield, Manchester · 25 min Sat-Sun 21-22, 28-29 Nov, 5-6, 12-13 Dec; daily Wed 16-Wed 23 Dec£10–25

Sat 21 Nov

Aladdin: The Pantomime Blackpool Pleasure Beach · 70 min 21 Nov to 24 Dec; performance times on site£10–25

Sat 21 Nov

Cruise with Father Christmas (floating grotto on the Ship Canal) Manchester River Cruises, Salford Quays · 18 min Date unconfirmed · Selected dates from 21 Nov; one-hour sailings at 10am, 11.30am, 1pm, 4.30pm and 6pm; sensory-adapted sailings 19 and 22 Dec at 10am; ages 2-10; end date assumedQuiet session Sat 19 Dec£10–25

Sat 21 Nov

Around the World in 80 Days: The Christmas Mansion Tatton Park, Knutsford · 22 min Selected dates 21 Nov – 31 Dec, 11am–4pm, last entry 3pm (e.g. 21–22, 25–29 Nov; most Dec weekends and 18–23 Dec)£10–25

Sat 21 Nov

Once Upon a Time... The Snow Queen (house dressed for Christmas) The Children's Country House at Sudbury, Sudbury, Ashbourne · 85 min 11am-4pm on 21-23 and 27-30 Nov; 4-7, 11-23, 27-31 Dec; 1-3 Jan£10–25

Sat 21 Nov

Emergency on Planet Earth: The Cost of Pollution (free exhibition with hands-on interactives) Warrington Museum & Art Gallery · 30 min Museum opening hoursFree

Sat 21 Nov

Football Art Prize exhibition National Football Museum, Manchester · 25 min 21 Nov 2026 – 21 Feb£10–25

Sun 22 Nov

Story Time With Santa (30-minute storytelling sessions) Alford Hall Sports and Social Club, Warrington · 30 min Sun 12–3pm, 30-minute sessionsUnder £10

Sun 22 Nov

Breakfast with Santa (buffet, storytime, games, crafts and face painting) Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa, Pulford, Chester · 60 min Sun 22 Nov, Sun 13 Dec and Sun 20 Dec, 10am–12pm£25+

Tue 24 Nov

Matthew Bourne's Cinderella (New Adventures, 30th anniversary) The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min Tue–Sat; evening shows plus matinees (check times)£25+

Wed 25 Nov

Christmas Tree Festival (Spirit of Christmas) Chester Cathedral · 55 min Last entry 5.30pm; over 80 decorated trees; pre-booking suggested (link 'coming soon')Not on sale yetUnder £10

Wed 25 Nov

Elf The Musical (Big Top Arena) Trentham Shopping Village, Stoke-on-Trent · 60 min Performance times vary by date (11am, 1pm, 2pm, 5pm, 7pm)£10–25

Thu 26 Nov

Christmas Gift Fair in the Tenants' Hall Tatton Park Mansion, Knutsford · 22 min Thu 26–Sun 29 Nov, 11am–4pmFree

Thu 26 Nov

Magical Christmas Experience with Santa and Friends The Southfields Pub, Bolton · 35 min Selected dates 26 Nov-24 Dec, 1-7pm, timed 30-minute family sessions£10–25

Fri 27 Nov

Gingerbread House Workshop (parent and child) Bents Garden & Home, Glazebury · 25 min Fri 5-6pm; one pre-built house per booking to decorate together£25+

Fri 27 Nov

The Gruffalo (stage show) Z-arts, Hulme, Manchester · 20 min Fri-Sun; ages 3+Selling fast£10–25

Fri 27 Nov

The World at Christmas at Lyme Lyme Park, Disley, Stockport · 35 min 27-30 Nov and 1-24 Dec, 11am-4pm (last entry 3pm)£10–25

Fri 27 Nov

The Sorcerer's Apprentice HOME, Manchester · 30 min Fri 27 Nov - Sat 2 Jan£10–25

Sat 28 Nov

Arc Saturday Art Club (family drop-in arts and crafts above Hat Works) Hat Works, Stockport · 30 min Sat 11am–3pm, drop in (no December club)Under £10

Sat 28 Nov

Manchester Made Craft Fair: Winter Edition Waterside Arts, Sale · 15 min Sat 11am-4pmFree

Sat 28 Nov

St George's Christmas Fayre (with bookable Santa's Grotto) St George's Church, Altrincham · 10 min Sat 28 Nov, 2-5pm; grotto in half-hour slots from 2pm (2, 2.30, 3, 3.30, 4.30pm on sale)Free

Sat 28 Nov

Gladiators Live Tour M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool · 55 min Sat 28 & Sun 29 Nov, shows 11.30am and 5.30pm (doors 10am/4pm)£25+

Sat 28 Nov

Meet Victorian Father Christmas (Dickensian grotto with traditional toys) Grosvenor Museum, Chester · 50 min Sat 28 Nov 10.30am–4pm; Sun 29 Nov 1–3.30pm; timed slots£10–25

Sat 28 Nov

Melanin Markets Winter Wonders x The Whitworth The Whitworth, Manchester · 25 min Sat 28 and Sun 29 Nov, 10am-3pmFree

Sat 28 Nov

Victorian Christmas Weekend at Gawthorpe Hall (Father Christmas, crafts, bellringers) Gawthorpe Hall, Padiham, Burnley · 60 min Sat 28 & Sun 29 Nov 11am-3.30pm; phone 01282 771004 to reserve a Father Christmas slotUnder £10

Sat 28 Nov

Breakfast and Brunch with Santa Stockport Plaza Cafe · 30 min Sat 28 Nov, 5 Dec, 12 Dec and 19 Dec, 9.30/10am breakfasts and 12pm brunchesSold out£10–25

Sat 28 Nov

Reverse Grotto at Erddig Erddig, Wrexham · 75 min 28 Nov - 20 Dec, 11am-3pm (selected dates)£10–25

Sat 28 Nov

Storytime with Father Christmas at Chatsworth Farmyard Chatsworth House, Bakewell · 75 min 28 Nov-13 Dec sessions include Christmas at Chatsworth entry; 18-23 Dec farmyard-only; relaxed 5 Dec, autism-friendly 21-22 DecRelaxed Sat 5 Dec£25+

Sun 29 Nov

Everything Stops For Festive Tea (fundraising afternoon tea with entertainment) Stockport Plaza · 30 min Sun 29 Nov, 4pm; shared tables, served by the Plazarettes£10–25

Sun 29 Nov

The Snowman Film with Live Orchestra (Carrot Productions 2026 tour) Stockport Town Hall · 30 min Sun 29 Nov 2.30pm (SOLD OUT) and 4.30pm (almost sold out); approx 60 minSelling fast£10–25

Mon 30 Nov

The Snowman Film with Live Orchestra (Carrot Productions, with Shaun the Sheep 'Fleece Navidad') The Loom, Oldham · 40 min Mon 30 Nov 10.45am; approx 60 min, no intervalSelling fast£10–25

Mon 30 Nov

Mr Popper's Penguins (Pins and Needles musical with penguin puppets) Waterside Arts, Sale · 15 min Public shows weekends and 19–27 Dec, times vary; BSL and relaxed performance Sat 5 Dec 11am; 60 mins, age 3+Relaxed Sat 5 Dec£10–25

Tue 1 Dec

Little Liverpool Christmas Special (festive sensory play, under-6s) Pier Head, Liverpool · 55 min Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun 11.15am; Fri 2.15pmOn sale Sun 1 NovUnder £10

Tue 1 Dec

12 Days of Christmas Trail (free museum clue hunt) Grosvenor Museum, Chester · 50 min Daily during opening hours; collect a trail sheet from receptionFree

Tue 1 Dec

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Bolton's biggest ever pantomime) Albert Halls Bolton · 40 min 1–31 Dec; shows at 10.15am, 1.30pm and 6.30pm depending on the day; no shows Mon 7, Mon 14, Fri 18, Fri 25 Dec£10–25

Tue 1 Dec

Christmas Lights at Poole's Cavern (with cave scavenger hunt) Poole's Cavern, Buxton · 45 min Daily 9.45am-4pm (4.30pm weekends); closed 25-26 Dec£10–25

Wed 2 Dec

The Snowman Film with Live Orchestra Buxton Octagon · 45 min Wed 2 Dec, 6.30pm public performance (approx 60 mins)£10–25

Wed 2 Dec

Home Alone in Concert (film with live orchestra and choir) The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester · 30 min Wed 2 and Thu 3 Dec 7.30pmSelling fast£25+

Wed 2 Dec

An Evening of Festive Music (carols by candlelight in the Tudor Great Hall) Speke Hall, Speke, Liverpool · 50 min Wed 2, Fri 4 and Thu 10 Dec; sessions 5.45–7.30pm and 7.15–9pm; cake and a hot drink first in the Home Farm Restaurant£10–25

Wed 2 Dec

Festive Family Tea with Father Christmas Bents Garden & Home, Glazebury · 25 min Wed 2, Fri 4, Tue 8, Fri 11, Tue 15, Wed 16 and Fri 18 Dec, 5-6.30pm£25+

Wed 2 Dec

Operation Elf: Save Christmas - festive play space Quarry Bank, Styal, Wilmslow · 15 min Daily 10.30am-4pm (closed some days; check calendar); 4th floor of the Mill£10–25

Wed 2 Dec

Billy Elliot the Musical Palace Theatre, Manchester city centre · 25 min Wed 2 Dec to Sat 9 Jan; matinee and evening times on ATG£25+

Thu 3 Dec

Christmas Fayre at Stockport Town Hall Stockport Town Hall · 25 min Thu 3 Dec, 12-6pmFree

Thu 3 Dec

Frozen Jr (NK Theatre Arts junior cast) Romiley Forum, Romiley, Stockport · 30 min Thu 3 - Sat 5 Dec; Thu 7pm, other times on the Forum siteSelling fast£10–25

Fri 4 Dec

NCO Christmas Concert at Tatton Park Tatton Park, Knutsford · 22 min Fri 4 Dec, performances 3.30pm and 7pm£10–25

Fri 4 Dec

Christmas Pantomime: Cinderella (Forum Events with OnYa Bike Theatre) Wythenshawe Forum · 15 min Fri 4 Dec 7pm, Sat 5 Dec 1.30pm, Sun 6 Dec 1.30pm; doors 30 min beforeUnder £10

Fri 4 Dec

Christmas concerts in the Great Hall (choirs, hand chimes, lute and flute) Rufford Old Hall, Rufford, near Ormskirk · 55 min Fri/Sat/Sun; mostly 11am–1pm (lute and flute Sundays 11am–3.30pm; Preston Orpheus Choir Sat 12 Dec 11.30 and 12.30); Great Hall holds 60 so arrive early£10–25

Fri 4 Dec

Cinderella - Southport's Pantomime The Atkinson, Southport · 65 min Sat/Sun 1pm & 5.30pm; Christmas week 2.30pm & 7pm; relaxed shows Sat 12 Dec 1pm and Sun 27 Dec 1pm; approx 2 hrs£25+

Fri 4 Dec

Sleeping Beauty (Buxton Opera House pantomime) Buxton Opera House · 40 min Fri 4 Dec - Sat 2 JanRelaxed£10–25

Fri 4 Dec

Jack and the Beanstalk (Blackpool Grand pantomime, Steve Royle and Lisa George) Blackpool Grand Theatre · 85 min Opens Fri 4 Dec 7pm; Sat/Sun 2pm & 7pm, weekday 10.15am/1.30pm shows in term time; relaxed 'Chilled' show Sun 27 Dec 5pm; closes Sun 3 Jan 1pm & 5pm£10–25

Fri 4 Dec

Jack and the Beanstalk (Stockport's family panto) Stockport Plaza · 30 min Performance times on the Plaza website£10–25

Fri 4 Dec

Rapunzel (Storyhouse Originals pantomime) Storyhouse, Chester · 55 min Matinees 12pm/2pm and evenings 5pm–7pm; relaxed Sun 27 Dec 12pm; BSL Sat 2 Jan 2pm; audio-described Sun 20 Dec 12pmRelaxed Sun 27 Dec£10–25

Fri 4 Dec

Robin Hood: the Garrick pantomime (30 performances, one relaxed show) Altrincham Garrick Playhouse · 10 min Fri 4 Dec - Sun 3 Jan; evenings 7.30pm, weekend/holiday shows 1.30pm and 5.30pm; relaxed performance Sat 12 Dec 5.30pm; dark 24-26 Dec and 1 Jan; ages 3+Selling fast£10–25

Fri 4 Dec

Snowstorm: A Frozen Adventure (ice show) The Trafford Centre, Trafford Park · 15 min 12pm-7pm on show days; check performance times£10–25

Fri 4 Dec

The Jolly Christmas Postman The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min Fri 4 Dec - Sun 3 JanRelaxed Sun 27 Dec£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

A Very Merry Minifest Z-arts, Hulme, Manchester · 20 min 11am and 2pm; ages 2–8£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

Breakfast with Santa at The Lost and Found Princess Street, Knutsford · 25 min Sat 5 Dec, 9.15am-12pm (a Sun 6 Dec listing also appears)£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

Christmas Fun Day (Santa visit, games and activities) Alford Hall Sports and Social Club, Warrington · 30 min Sat 5 Dec, 2-5pm; free parkingUnder £10

Sat 5 Dec

Handmade at Hat Works: Festive Edition (makers market) Hat Works, Stockport · 20 min Date unconfirmed · Sat 5 Dec; drop-in; time not listedFree

Sat 5 Dec

Shiny Christmas Fun Day (free crafts, storytelling and winter disco) - SOLD OUT Z-arts, Hulme, Manchester · 20 min Sat from 11am, 3 hours; A Very Merry Minifest shows at 11am and 2pmSold outFree

Sat 5 Dec

Stan's Secret Santa Saturday Manchester Museum, Manchester city centre · 25 min Sat 5 Dec, 11am-3pmFree

Sat 5 Dec

Storytime and Crafts with Mother Christmas Grosvenor Museum, Chester · 50 min Sat 11am–3pm; storytelling at 11am, 12pm, 1pm and 2pmUnder £10

Sat 5 Dec

Dear Santa Claus: Christmas Grotto at Delamere Station House Delamere Station House, Delamere Forest, Northwich · 50 min Sat 5 Dec 11.30am-1.30pm confirmed on the organiser's Eventbrite (15-minute slots, arrive 10 min early); listing also shows Sun 6 Dec from 9.30am£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

Father Christmas Experience at Bramall Hall Bramall Hall, Bramhall, Stockport · 25 min Sat 5 and Sun 6 Dec; timed slots from 10am£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

Festive Family Breakfast with Father Christmas Bents Garden & Home, Glazebury · 25 min Saturdays 5, 12 and 19 Dec, 9.30-11am; everyone attending needs a ticketSold out£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

Santa Special Cruise on the River Dee ChesterBoat, The Boating Station, Souters Lane · 55 min Sat 5, Sat 12 and Sat 19 Dec at 12pm and 2.30pm (one hour)£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

Festive Breakfast with Father Christmas Rufford Old Hall, Rufford, near Ormskirk · 50 min 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20 Dec; 10-11am single sitting£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

A Magical Meeting with Father Christmas at Hoghton Tower (Postmaster, Reindeer Keeper, Mrs Claus storytime) Hoghton Tower, Hoghton, Preston · 55 min Sat 5, Sun 6, Sat 12, Sun 13, Sat 19, Sun 20 and Mon 21 Dec; timed slots; tearoom 10am-4pm; Sun 20 Dec also farmers' market (£3/car site fee)£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

Meet Father Christmas at Quarry Bank (SOLD OUT) Quarry Bank, Styal, Wilmslow · 15 min Now listed as sold out on the National Trust events page (17 Oct)Sold out£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

The Eureka! Christmas Experience (private meet with Santa) Eureka! The National Children's Museum, Halifax · 50 min 5-6, 12-13 and 18 Dec, then daily 19-23 Dec; timed slots, 12 families per slot£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

Breakfast with Santa Live Show at The Yorkshire Hive Evolution Experience Restaurant, Doncaster · 80 min 5–6, 12–13 and 19–24 Dec, 8.45am–10.30amSelling fast£25+

Sat 5 Dec

Christmas Carol Concerts in Peak Cavern (brass bands underground) Peak Cavern, Castleton · 55 min Sat 5, Sun 6, Sat 12, Sun 13, Sat 19, Sun 20 and Wed 23 Dec at 6pm; Thu 24 Dec at 4pm; 60-70 min seatedSelling fast£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

Meet Father Christmas at Trentham Trentham Shopping Village, Stoke-on-Trent · 60 min 5, 6, 12, 13 and 19-24 Dec, 9am-6pm£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

Polar Bear Santa's Grotto Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Doncaster · 80 min 5-6, 12-13 and 19-24 Dec£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

Santa at SEA LIFE Blackpool SEA LIFE Blackpool · 85 min 5-6, 12-13, 19-23 Dec 10.15am-3pm; 24 Dec 10.15am-1pm£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

Story Time with Santa at Liverpool Town Hall Liverpool Town Hall, Liverpool city centre · 55 min Selected dates; sessions about 45-60 minutes; sensory-friendly session usually offered£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

The Dunham Barn Santa's Grotto 2026 (private family slots) The Dunham Barn, Dunham Massey, Altrincham · 15 min Selected dates 5-24 Dec; private slots for up to 6, some dates already sold outSelling fast£25+

Sat 5 Dec

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz on Ice (BIDCA) Blackpool Pleasure Beach · 70 min 5-26 Dec; performance times on site£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

Jack and the Beanstalk (family panto) The Met, Bury · 40 min Sat 5-Mon 28 Dec; relaxed show Sun 13 Dec 11am; pyjama show Fri 11 Dec 6.30pmSelling fastRelaxed Sun 13 Dec

Sat 5 Dec

Sleeping Beauty - A Traditional Pantomime Salford Arts Theatre · 30 min Sat 5 - Thu 31 Dec; 11am, 2pm and 7pm performances£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

The Pied Piper of Hamelin Millgate Arts Centre, Delph, Saddleworth · 50 min Sat 5 Dec-Sat 2 Jan; first show Sat 5 Dec 1pm; shows through Christmas and New Year, prices vary by date£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

A Very Merry Christmas at Eureka! (Gruffalo's Child storytelling, trail) Eureka! The National Children's Museum, Halifax · 50 min December weekends, daily 18-23 Dec and 28 Dec-3 Jan; storytelling 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

Dick Whittington (Jason Manford & Ben Nickless) Opera House Manchester · 30 min Daily matinees and evenings; relaxed performance Wed 30 Dec 1.30pmRelaxed Wed 30 Dec£10–25

Sat 5 Dec

William Morris: Common Paradise (major free exhibition) The Whitworth, Manchester · 25 min Gallery open daily 10am–5pm (Thu to 9pm)Free

Sun 6 Dec

A Christmas Carol pantomime (M&M Theatrical Productions) Chorley Town Hall · 45 min Sun 6 Dec, three performances: 10.30am, 12.30pm and 2.30pmUnder £10

Sun 6 Dec

HWMC Kids Christmas Party (games, crafts, face painting, meet Santa) Houldsworth Working Men's Club, Reddish, Stockport · 25 min Sun 6 Dec, 1-4pmUnder £10

Sun 6 Dec

Messy Cafe: Christmas Crafts St George's Church, Altrincham · 10 min Sun 1–2.30pmUnder £10

Sun 6 Dec

The Hallé: The Snowman and Friends The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester · 30 min Sun 6 Dec, 1pm and 4pm (hour-long concert)£25+

Sun 6 Dec

Victorian Father Christmas at Samlesbury Hall Samlesbury Hall, Samlesbury, Preston · 60 min Sundays 6 and 13 Dec only, 11am-4pm, timed slots; private 5-minute meeting for 1-4 children aged 10 and underUnder £10

Sun 6 Dec

Show White (family pantomime) Northwich Memorial Court · 35 min Date unconfirmed · 6-19 Dec 2026; check performance times£10–25

Sun 6 Dec

Brunch with Santa in the Refectory Chester Cathedral Refectory · 55 min Sun 6, 13 and 20 Dec, sittings 9am-11.30am; also Thu 24 Dec from 8.30am; ages 1-10; Afternoon Tea with Santa on 6 and 20 Dec 1.30-3pm£10–25

Mon 7 Dec

Disney's The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert - Live to Film The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester · 30 min Mon 7 Dec 7pm and Thu 17 Dec 7pmSelling fast£25+

Tue 8 Dec

Jack and the Beanstalk on ice (Planet Ice Christmas show) Planet Ice Altrincham, Oakfield Road · 10 min Tuesday 8 December, matinee 1pm (doors noon) and evening 7pm. Local Learn to Skate skaters with a professional touring cast.£10–25

Tue 8 Dec

Baby's First Santa Visit at The Dunham Barn The Dunham Barn, Altrincham · 15 min Short 10-minute visits for babies and very young children, from 2.30pm; check Eventbrite for all slots. Bring your own camera.£10–25

Tue 8 Dec

Prehistoric Planet: Discovering Dinosaurs Aviva Studios, Manchester · 25 min Tue 8 Dec - Wed 6 Jan£10–25

Tue 8 Dec

David Bowie: You're Not Alone (Lightroom immersive show) Aviva Studios, Manchester · 30 min Slots every 30 mins; one-hour loop; daytime slots all ages, 6pm onwards 12+£25+

Wed 9 Dec

Sammy the Snowman's Christmas Surprise (Octagon and The Big Tiny) Octagon Theatre, Bolton · 40 min Wed 9 - Thu 24 Dec, typically 11am and 1pm; age 3+£10–25

Thu 10 Dec

Story Time with Santa and Mrs Claus The Dunham Barn, Dunham Massey · 15 min Thu 10 Dec, 11am-12.30pm£10–25

Thu 10 Dec

Peter Pan: A Magical Christmas Pantomime (DATS) The Evans Theatre, Wilmslow · 25 min Thu/Fri 7pm; Sat and Sun 1pm and 5pm£10–25

Thu 10 Dec

Baby and Toddler Festive Play Session with Father Christmas Quarry Bank, Styal, Wilmslow · 15 min Thu 10, Fri 11, Thu 17 and Fri 18 Dec; ages 6 months to 5 years, older children welcome£10–25

Thu 10 Dec

Showstopper at Christmas! (improvised musical) The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min Thu 10 – Sun 20 Dec; the Lowry suggests ages 12+£10–25

Thu 10 Dec

Sleeping Beauty (The Big Tiny) Contact, Manchester · 25 min Thu 10 - Thu 31 DecRelaxed Sat 12 Dec£10–25

Fri 11 Dec

Winter Wonderland Craft Fair (for Trafford Domestic Abuse Services) Kids Planet Stanley Square, Sale · 15 min Fri 11 Dec, 5-7pm; open to everyone, not just nursery familiesFree

Fri 11 Dec

A Quiet Visit with Father Christmas (neurodivergent-friendly sessions) Quarry Bank, Styal, Wilmslow · 15 min Fri 11 Dec mornings and Wed 16 Dec 9.30am-4.20pm, 30-minute slotsQuiet session Fri 11 Dec£10–25

Fri 11 Dec

Sleeping Beauty (Crewe Lyceum pantomime) Lyceum Theatre, Crewe · 45 min Fri 11 Dec - Sun 3 Jan; marked 'selling fast'Selling fast£10–25

Fri 11 Dec

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Regent Theatre pantomime with Jonathan Wilkes) Regent Theatre, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent · 55 min Opens Fri 11 Dec; audio-described/BSL show 29 Dec; performance times on ATG listing£10–25

Fri 11 Dec

A Christmas Carol (The Old Vic) The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min Fri 11 Dec – Sun 10 Jan; ages 8+, about 2 hours with an interval£25+

Sat 12 Dec

Family Carols at Manchester Cathedral Manchester Cathedral, Manchester city centre · 25 min Sat 12 Dec, 7.30pm-9.30pmUnder £10

Sat 12 Dec

Lunch with Father Christmas Piccolo Bar and Restaurant, Gatley · 20 min Sat 12 Dec, 12pm-2.30pmUnder £10

Sat 12 Dec

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring in Concert Co-op Live, Manchester · 25 min Sat 12 Dec; matinee doors 11.30am, evening doors 5.30pm£25+

Sat 12 Dec

Christmas at Wythenshawe Hall (hall dressed for Christmas, Santa's grotto) Wythenshawe Hall · 15 min Sat 12 and Sun 13 Dec; usual open-day hours 11am-4pm; 2026 prices to be confirmed (last time £3 entry, grotto £3.50 per child, grotto queue closes 2pm)Under £10

Sat 12 Dec

Santa's Grotto at the Town Hall Town Hall Square, Chester · 55 min Sat 12 & Sun 13 Dec 2026, 10.30am-4.30pm£10–25

Sat 12 Dec

Father Christmas at Smithills Hall (grotto with elves and photos) Smithills Hall, Bolton · 45 min Date unconfirmed · Planned days 12, 13, 15, 18, 19 and 20 Dec incl. a My First Father Christmas (0-3) day and SEND days; public times and prices not yet publishedNot on sale yet£10–25

Sat 12 Dec

The Princess & The Frog (interactive Christmas show, ages 3-8) Buxton Opera House · 40 min Sat 12 - Wed 23 Dec; 1 hour, no interval; showtimes on the venue site£10–25

Sat 12 Dec

Cinderella - Liverpool's biggest ever pantomime M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool · 55 min 12-29 Dec; mostly 2.30pm & 6pm, some 1pm/5pm and 11am shows; BSL Mon 21 Dec 6pm£10–25

Sun 13 Dec

Breakfast with Santa at Tegg's Nose Tegg's Nose Country Park, Macclesfield · 40 min Sun 13 Dec, from 8.30am£10–25

Sun 13 Dec

Christmas Underground: Brass & Voices Poole's Cavern, Buxton · 45 min Sun 13 Dec, 7pm; pre-booking required£10–25

Sun 13 Dec

Hallé Christmas Family Concert: A Festive World Adventure The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester city centre · 30 min Sun 13 Dec, 3pm£10–25

Sun 13 Dec

Scratch Nativity Service (come dressed as a shepherd, angel or king) St George's Church, Altrincham · 10 min Sun 9.30–10.30amFree

Sun 13 Dec

Stockport Symphony Orchestra Christmas family matinee Stockport Town Hall · 25 min Sun 13 Dec, 3pm-5.30pmUnder £10

Mon 14 Dec

The Reindeer Who Saved Christmas Storyhouse, Chester · 55 min Mon 14 - Thu 24 Dec; approx 60 minutes; recommended 3+Selling fast£10–25

Wed 16 Dec

A Christmas Carol (A Place For Us Theatre Company) Norton Priory Museum & Gardens, Runcorn · 40 min Wed 16 – Fri 18 Dec, 6pm or 7.45pm; 60 minutes£10–25

Wed 16 Dec

Disney On Ice: Discover the Magic AO Arena, Manchester · 25 min Wed 16 - Sun 20 Dec; 5pm & 6.30pm midweek, earlier shows Fri-Sun£25+

Thu 17 Dec

Twilight Supper with Santa The Dunham Barn, Dunham Massey · 15 min Thu 17 Dec, 5pm-6.30pm£10–25

Fri 18 Dec

The Hallé: Christmas Cracker (festive hits and The Nightmare Before Christmas film music) The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester city centre · 30 min Fri 18 Dec, 7.30pm£10–25

Fri 18 Dec

The Snowman Film with Live Orchestra Liverpool Cathedral · 55 min Fri 18 Dec 5pm (selling fast) and 7.30pm; approx 80 min with intervalSelling fast£10–25

Fri 18 Dec

ComedySportz Improvised Panto (Juniors, 7+) Waterside Arts, Sale · 15 min Fri 18 Dec 6pm; Sat 19 Dec 4.30pm and 6.30pm; 75 mins; the Tots version (6 and under, Sat 2.30pm) is sold outUnder £10

Sat 19 Dec

Carols by Candlelight with brass band and Festival Choir St George's Church, Altrincham · 10 min Sat 19 Dec, 7-8pmFree

Sat 19 Dec

ComedySportz Improvised Panto (Tots) - SOLD OUT Waterside Arts, Sale · 15 min Sat 19 Dec, 2.30pm, 75 mins, ages 6 and underSold outUnder £10

Sat 19 Dec

Stockport Multicultural Christmas Concert Stockroom, Merseyway, Stockport · 30 min Sat 19 Dec, 2pm-4pmFree

Sat 19 Dec

Zoology Club with Animal Teach (hands-on animal encounters) Norton Priory Museum & Gardens, Runcorn · 40 min Sat 19 Dec 2026; age-banded timeslots£10–25

Sat 19 Dec

Goofus Theatre: Stars and Stones (puppet show in the Space Dome) Jodrell Bank, Goostrey, Macclesfield · 35 min Sat 19 and Sun 20 Dec, showings 11.15am, 12.45pm and 2.30pmUnder £10

Sat 19 Dec

Hallé Carol Concert (with Hallé Children's and Youth Choirs) The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester · 30 min Sat 19 Dec 3pm, Sun 20 Dec 3pm and 7.30pmSelling fast£10–25

Sat 19 Dec

The Snowman family concert, hosted by Maddie Moate Liverpool Philharmonic Hall · 55 min Sat 19 - Sun 20 Dec 2026 (BSL-interpreted show Sat 2.30pm)£10–25

Sat 19 Dec

Melting Moments: free winter family art activities (Christmas holidays) Tate Liverpool + RIBA North · 55 min Daily 10am–4pm; closed 24–26 DecFree

Sat 19 Dec

Liverpool Indoor Funfair Winter Exhibition Centre Liverpool · 55 min 19 Dec-9 Jan; sessions 10am-1pm, 2-5pm, 6-9pmUnder £10

Sun 20 Dec

A Christmas Carol performed by Gerald Charles Dickens (great-great-grandson of Charles Dickens) The Stoller Hall, Manchester city centre · 25 min Sun 20 Dec, 2.30pm matinee (doors 2pm) and 7.30pm£10–25

Sun 20 Dec

Breakfast with Frozen Friends Princess Street, Knutsford · 25 min Sun 20 Dec, 9.30-11.30am£10–25

Sun 20 Dec

RNCM Christmas Family Day: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse with live orchestra Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester (Oxford Road) · 30 min Sun 20 Dec 2026; sessions 10am-12.30pm and 1.30-4pm£10–25

Sun 20 Dec

Scratch Nativity with carols St Mary Magdalene Church, Ashton on Mersey, Ashton upon Mersey · 15 min Sunday 20 December, 9.30am (about an hour)Free

Sun 20 Dec

Breakfast with Scuba Santa Blue Planet Aquarium, Ellesmere Port · 45 min Date unconfirmed · 20–24 DecNot on sale yet£10–25

Mon 21 Dec

The Snowman Film with Live Orchestra Chester Cathedral · 55 min Mon 21 Dec 2pm, 4pm (both selling fast) and 6.30pm; approx 60 minSelling fast£10–25

Mon 21 Dec

Breakfast with Santa at The Dunham Barn The Dunham Barn, Altrincham · 15 min 8.30–9.30am (dates shown include Mon 21 and Wed 23 December; check Eventbrite). Full English, songs with Santa and Mrs Claus, small gift per child.£10–25

Tue 22 Dec

Christmas Musical Spectacular with Michael Ball AO Arena, Manchester · 25 min Tue 22 and Wed 23 Dec, event starts 4pm£25+

Wed 23 Dec

Christingle making afternoon St Mary Magdalene Church, Ashton on Mersey, Ashton upon Mersey · 15 min Wednesday 23 December, 3–5pmFree

Wed 23 Dec

Christmas Carol Singalong with Jonathan Cohen and Louise Dearman The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester · 30 min Wed 23 Dec, 7.30pm£25+

Wed 23 Dec

A Very Messy Christmas The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min Wed 23 Dec - Sun 3 Jan; matinee performances£10–25

Thu 24 Dec

Christingle services (two sittings) St George's Church, Altrincham · 10 min Christmas Eve 2pm and 4pmFree

Thu 24 Dec

Christmas Eve Christingle services (three sittings) St Mary Magdalene Church, Ashton on Mersey, Ashton upon Mersey · 15 min Thursday 24 December at 3pm (doors 2.30pm, no booking), 4.15pm and 5.30pm (seats bookable from 4 December); each about 45 minutesFree

Thu 24 Dec

Christmas Eve Polar Express party and Santa meet and greet (PJs essential) ICONS, 511 Bury New Road, Prestwich · 30 min Thu 3–5pm; hot chocolate, cookies, Christmas dancingUnder £10

Sun 27 Dec

The Music of Zimmer vs Williams (Manchester Concert Orchestra) The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester · 30 min Sun 27 Dec, 3pm£25+

Wed 30 Dec

The Hallé: How to Train Your Dragon 2 in concert The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester · 30 min Wed 30 Dec, 5pm£25+

Wed 30 Dec

Aladdin (Parr Hall family pantomime) Parr Hall, Warrington · 30 min Wed 30 Dec - Sun 10 Jan; morning, afternoon and evening shows (9.45am, 11am, 1.30pm, 3.30pm, 6.30pm, 7pm)Relaxed Sat 9 Jan£10–25

Thu 31 Dec

Raver Tots NYE family daytime rave Escape to Freight Island, Manchester · 30 min Thu 31 Dec, 12.30-2pm; adults enter only with a child£10–25

Sat 2 Jan

The Nutcracker - Varna International Ballet and Orchestra The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester · 30 min Sat 2 Jan, 5.30pm£25+

Sat 2 Jan

Snow White - Varna International Ballet and Orchestra The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester · 30 min Sat 2 and Sun 3 Jan, 2pm matinees£25+

Sun 3 Jan

Swan Lake - Varna International Ballet and Orchestra The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester · 30 min Sun 5.30pm (last day of the Christmas holidays)£25+

Sun 3 Jan

Family Feastival Sundays (kids' crafts, free face painting, kids' quiz and food deals) Boxpark Liverpool, Liverpool (Baltic Triangle) · 55 min Most Sundays 12pm-4pm (not 14 Mar)Under £10

Fri 8 Jan

Robin Hood and His Merry Men Waterside Arts, Sale · 10 min Fri 8 - Sun 17 Jan 2027. Family matinees Sat 9 Jan 2pm, Sun 10 Jan 12pm & 4pm, Sat 16 Jan 2pm, Sun 17 Jan 12pmUnder £10

Sat 16 Jan

Holmes & Watson: The Curious Case of the Masked Magician (family magic show) The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min Sat 2pm (Quays Theatre), about 1hr 40min with an interval£10–25

Sun 17 Jan

NBA Manchester Game 2027: New Orleans Pelicans v San Antonio Spurs Co-op Live, Manchester · 25 min Sun 17 Jan 2027, doors 3pm, tip-off TBA (approx 3.30pm)£25+

Sun 17 Jan

Dynamo live (magician, Quays Theatre) The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min Date unconfirmed · Sun 17 - Fri 22 Jan, 8.15pm shows (evening only)£25+

Sun 24 Jan

The Brain Bending Science Illusion Show The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min Sun 1.30pm-3pm (Quays Theatre)£10–25

Thu 28 Jan

Dog Man: The Musical Palace Theatre, Manchester city centre · 30 min Date unconfirmed · Thu 28 - Sat 30 Jan; times not confirmed£10–25

Fri 29 Jan

Hallé Orchestra: John Williams - Music and Movies The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester · 30 min Fri 7.30pm£25+

Sat 30 Jan

For the Love of the Force (independent Star Wars fan convention: cosplay, props, guests) Bowlers Exhibition Centre, Stretford · 25 min Sat 30 & Sun 31 Jan, 9am-6pm (last entry 4.30pm)£10–25

Mon 1 Feb

The Legend of Korra in Concert (live orchestra to HD scenes from the animated series) The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester city centre · 30 min Mon 1 Feb, 7.30pm (timings TBC)£25+

Wed 3 Feb

Hallé Relaxed Concert for young families (February) Hallé St Peter's, Ancoats, Manchester · 25 min Wed 3 Feb 2.30pm (mixed audience); Thu 4 Feb 11am (young families). About 50 minutes.Relaxed Wed 3 FebUnder £10

Sat 6 Feb

Meet the Hatter (Joss Arnott Dance: Alice-inspired dance and animation) The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min Sat 11am and 2pm (Quays Theatre)£10–25

Sat 6 Feb

Dear Zoo Live! Stockport Plaza · 25 min Sat 6 Feb 1.30pm; Sun 7 Feb 11am£10–25

Sat 6 Feb

Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour 2027 AO Arena, Manchester · 25 min Sat 6 Feb 2.30pm & 7.30pm; Sun 7 Feb 1.30pm£25+

Sun 7 Feb

Messy Café at St George’s (family crafts, games and cake) St George's Church, Altrincham · 10 min Sunday 1–2.30pm. Drop in any time; crafts, stories, songs and cake.Under £10

Sun 7 Feb

RNCM Young Explorers: Wallace and Gromit - A Close Shave (live brass band) RNCM Concert Hall, Manchester · 25 min Sun 7 Feb 2027, 2pm (ends approx 4pm, with interval)£10–25

Wed 10 Feb

Disney Descendants, ZOMBIES & Camp Rock: Worlds Collide Concert Tour AO Arena, Manchester · 25 min Wed 10 Feb 2027, evening (start time TBA)£25+

Sat 13 Feb

ComedySportz: improvised comedy match for families (February) Waterside Arts, Sale · 15 min Saturday 13 February 2027, 6.30pm (about 2 hours with an interval)Under £10

Sat 13 Feb

For the Love of Time & Space (independent Doctor Who convention) Bowlers Exhibition Centre, Trafford Park · 25 min Sat-Sun of February half term, doors 9am£10–25

Sat 13 Feb

Draw a Line in the Sand: free February half-term family art activities Tate Liverpool + RIBA North · 55 min Daily 10am–4pmFree

Mon 15 Feb

Gordon Buchanan: Lions and Tigers and Bears (wildlife filmmaker live) The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min Mon 7.30pm (February half term)£10–25

Mon 15 Feb

Dinosaur World Live The Lowry, Salford · 18 min Mon 15-Thu 18 Feb 2027 (Feb half-term); 50 mins + 15-min meet & greet; times TBCNot on sale yet£10–25

Tue 16 Feb

Ministry of Science LIVE: Science Saved The World Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent · 55 min Tue 16 Feb 2027 (Feb half-term), 4pm£10–25

Tue 16 Feb

The Dinosaur That Pooped (stage show) Opera House Manchester, Manchester city centre · 30 min Tue 16 Feb 2027 (February half term); check times when booking£10–25

Tue 16 Feb

Matthew Bourne's Cinderella Liverpool Empire · 55 min 16-20 Feb 2027 (Feb half-term); eves 7.30pm, matinees Thu & Sat 2.30pm£10–25

Tue 16 Feb

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show Liverpool Playhouse · 55 min Tue 16 - Sat 20 Feb 2027 (February half term)£10–25

Wed 17 Feb

The Dinosaurs Are Back! (Dommy B) The Met, Bury · 40 min Wed 17 Feb 2027 (Feb half-term), 2pm£10–25

Thu 18 Feb

Amazing Animals (life-size puppet animal show) Lyceum Theatre, Crewe · 45 min Thu 18 Feb (half term), 2.30pm£10–25

Thu 18 Feb

Fun For Little Ones: a tribute to Ms Rachel (half-term toddler show) Opera House Manchester · 30 min Thu 12 noon (half term)£10–25

Thu 18 Feb

Scheherazade - Concerts for Families (Chetham's young musicians, Feb half term) The Stoller Hall, Manchester city centre · 25 min Thu 18 and Fri 19 Feb, 11am (approx 1 hour)Under £10

Thu 18 Feb

Shrek The Musical (Cou-Cou Theatre Productions) at Pleasure Beach Arena Blackpool Pleasure Beach · 80 min Thu 18 – Sat 20 Feb (half term); showtimes not yet listed£10–25

Fri 19 Feb

Dog Man: The Musical Storyhouse, Chester · 55 min Fri 19 Feb 2.30pm & 6pm; Sat 20 Feb 11am, 2.30pm & 6pm; Sun 21 Feb 11am & 2.30pm£10–25

Fri 19 Feb

Sonic Live in Concert (35th anniversary) The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester city centre · 30 min Fri 19 Feb 7.30pm (SOLD OUT) and Sun 21 Feb 7.30pmSelling fast£25+

Sun 21 Feb

Not Now, Bernard! (Roustabout Theatre, half term) The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min Sun 1pm and 3.30pm (Aldridge Studio), 1 hr£10–25

Sun 21 Feb

Pinocchio (Indefinite Articles puppetry) Waterside Arts, Sale · 15 min Sun 21 Feb 2027, 2.30pm (60 mins, no interval)£10–25

Thu 25 Feb

The Harlem Globetrotters: 2027 Rivalry Tour M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool · 55 min Thu 25 Feb 2027, doors 6.30pm, show time TBC£25+

Sat 27 Feb

Cirque: The Greatest Show (circus acts meet musical theatre hits, with BGT's Max Fox and Christian Lee) M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool · 55 min Sat 27 Feb, shows 2pm and 6pm (doors 1pm/5pm)£25+

Tue 2 Mar

Mrs. Doubtfire The Musical Liverpool Empire · 55 min 2-21 Mar 2027; eves 7.30pm, matinees Thu & Sat 2.30pm, Sun 2pm£25+

Thu 4 Mar

Opera North: The Big Opera Mystery (family opera, ages 7–11) The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min Date unconfirmed · Thu; time not confirmed£10–25

Thu 4 Mar

Disney On Ice presents Road Trip Adventures M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool · 55 min Thu/Fri 6.30pm; Sat 10.30am, 2.30pm, 6.30pm; Sun 10.30am, 2.30pm£25+

Sat 6 Mar

Family Wrestling Night at the Plaza Stockport Plaza · 30 min Sat 6.30pm£10–25

Sun 7 Mar

Amazing Animals (life-size puppet show) Buxton Opera House · 45 min Sun 7 Mar 2027, 2.30pm (1hr 20 plus interval)£10–25

Sun 7 Mar

Ministry of Science LIVE: Science Saved The World Parr Hall, Warrington · 30 min Sun 7 Mar 2027, 3.30pm£10–25

Wed 10 Mar

Shrek The Musical (Romiley Operatic Society) Stockport Plaza · 30 min Wed 10 - Sun 14 Mar; times on Quaytickets£10–25

Fri 12 Mar

Room on the Broom (Tall Stories) Octagon Theatre, Bolton · 40 min Fri 12 Mar 4.30pm; Sat 13 & Sun 14 Mar 10.30am & 1.30pm (55 mins)£10–25

Thu 18 Mar

Gymnastics British Championships 2027 M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool · 55 min Thu 18-Sun 21 Mar 2027; Sat senior all-around, Sun apparatus finals£10–25

Sat 20 Mar

Hallé Youth Celebration (young singers and players) The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester · 30 min Sat 12 noon£10–25

Sun 21 Mar

Nick Cope Family Show: I've Lost My Bobble Hat... Again! The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min Sun 11am and 2pm (Quays Theatre), 60 mins£10–25

Sun 21 Mar

Super League Basketball Cup Finals (men's and women's double-header) AO Arena, Manchester · 25 min Sun; tip-off times TBA (listings show 12.30pm)£10–25

Thu 25 Mar

James and the Giant Peach (Garrick Easter family show) Altrincham Garrick Playhouse · 10 min Thu 25 Mar 7.30pm; Sat 27 Mar 1.30pm & 5.30pm; Mon 29 Mar 6pm; Tue-Fri 7.30pm; Sat 3 & Sun 4 Apr 1.30pm & 5.30pm£10–25

Thu 25 Mar

James and the Giant Peach (Garrick family musical) Altrincham Garrick Playhouse · 10 min 12 performances: evenings 7.30pm (Mon 29 Mar 6pm), matinees Sat 27 Mar, Sat 3 Apr and Sun 4 Apr at 1.30pm, plus 5.30pm shows those days. About 2 hours with an interval.£10–25

Fri 26 Mar

Good Friday Easter crafts at St George’s St George's Church, Altrincham · 10 min Good Friday 10–11.30am, then a light lunch together. Parents stay throughout.Under £10

Fri 26 Mar

Pip and Posy Live on Stage Lyceum Theatre, Crewe · 45 min Fri 26 Mar 4pm; Sat 27 Mar 3pm (Easter holidays)£10–25

Sat 27 Mar

Easter Organ Coffee Morning (free Compton organ concert) Stockport Plaza · 30 min Easter Saturday 11am-2pm, drop inFree

Sat 27 Mar

The Ultimate Bubble Show (Ray Bubbles) The Met, Bury · 40 min Sat 27 Mar 2027, 1pm (approx 65 mins)£10–25

Tue 30 Mar

The Wizard of Oz - Easter Family Panto Stockport Plaza · 25 min Tue 30 Mar 2027, 3pm & 7pm (Easter holidays)£10–25

Wed 31 Mar

Pip and Posy Live on Stage Liverpool Playhouse · 55 min Wed 31 Mar - Sat 3 Apr 2027 (Easter holidays)£10–25

Sat 3 Apr

The Wiggles: Sparkle! Big Show M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool waterfront · 55 min Sat 3 Apr 2027, 11:00am (Easter holidays)On sale Fri 23 Oct 10am£10–25

Sun 4 Apr

Disney Princess - The Concert Opera House Manchester · 30 min Sun 4 Apr 2027 (Easter holidays), 2pm & 7pm£25+

Tue 6 Apr

Zog and the Flying Doctors (musical) Liverpool Playhouse · 55 min Tue 6 - Sat 10 Apr 2027 (6 Apr is the last day of the Easter holidays)£10–25

Wed 7 Apr

The Last Wild (Unicorn / National Theatre world premiere) The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min Wed 2.30pm; Thu 11am (autism-friendly) & 2.30pm; Fri 2.30pm & 7pm; Sat 11am (BSL) & 2.30pm£10–25

Thu 8 Apr

The Lamb Who Came For Dinner (Riding Lights) The Met, Bury · 40 min Thu 8 Apr 2027 (Easter holidays), 2pm (approx 60 mins)£10–25

Fri 9 Apr

The Space Explorers Academy (Science Museum / UK Space Agency live show, ages 6-12) Pavilion Arts Centre, Buxton · 40 min Fri 9 Apr (Easter holidays), 12.30pm£10–25

Sun 11 Apr

Natural History Museum Presents Dinosaurs Live Buxton Opera House · 45 min Sun 11 Apr 2027, 12.30pm£10–25

Tue 13 Apr

Singin' in the Rain (Chichester Festival Theatre tour) Liverpool Empire · 55 min Tue-Sat evenings plus matinees£25+

Tue 13 Apr

Zog and the Flying Doctors - Live on Stage The Lowry, Salford · 18 min Tue 13-Sun 18 Apr 2027 (approx 1hr, no interval); times on Lowry booking page£10–25

Sat 17 Apr

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Colour Bash AO Arena, Manchester · 25 min Sat 17 Apr 11.30am & 6.30pm; Sun 18 Apr 11.30am£25+

Sun 25 Apr

Cirque: The Greatest Show (circus meets musical theatre) Buxton Opera House · 40 min Sun 25 Apr, 6pm£25+

Sun 25 Apr

Disney Princess - The Concert Liverpool Empire, Liverpool city centre (Lime Street) · 55 min Sun 25 Apr 2027; check the booking page for the performance time£10–25

Fri 30 Apr

Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain (Birmingham Stage Company, with 3D effects) Floral Pavilion, New Brighton, Wirral · 60 min Fri 30 Apr to Sun 2 May 2027 (early May bank holiday weekend); various times, about 2 hours£10–25

Wed 5 May

CATS (new UK tour of Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical) Liverpool Empire, Liverpool city centre (Lime Street) · 55 min Wed 5 to Sat 15 May 2027, evenings 7:30pm plus matinees; about 2 hr 20 min£10–25

Sun 9 May

Messy Café at St George’s (family crafts, games and cake) St George's Church, Altrincham · 10 min Sunday 1–2.30pm. Drop in any time; crafts, stories, songs and cake.Under £10

Sun 9 May

The Night Sky Show: A Sky Full of Hope (astronomer Adrian West) The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min Date unconfirmed · Sun; show times not yet published£10–25

Tue 11 May

The Smeds and The Smoos (Tall Stories) Octagon Theatre, Bolton · 40 min Tue 11 & Wed 12 May 1.30pm & 4.30pm; Thu 13 May 10.30am & 1.30pm£10–25

Sat 15 May

Natural History Museum Presents Dinosaurs Live Parr Hall, Warrington · 30 min Sat 15 May 2027, 3.30pm£10–25

Fri 21 May

Blue Planet III Live in Concert (Hans Zimmer score, giant screen) AO Arena, Manchester city centre · 25 min Fri 21 May 2027, evening (tour opens in Manchester)£25+

Fri 21 May

The Tiger Who Came to Tea (stage show) The Atkinson, Southport, Lord Street · 65 min Fri 21 and Sat 22 May 2027; times TBC (usually daytime shows of about 55 min)Not on sale yetUnder £10

Wed 26 May

Taskmaster Live On Stage (Greg Davies and Alex Horne's first UK live show) AO Arena, Manchester city centre · 25 min Wed 26 May 2027, 6:30pm show (5:30pm early slot listed for premium packages); final times TBC£10–25

Wed 26 May

Starlight Express (UK tour) Liverpool Empire · 55 min 26 May-12 Jun 2027; eves 7.30pm, matinees Thu/Sat 2.30pm, Sun 30 May 1pm & 6pm£25+

Sat 29 May

Dear Zoo Live! Lyceum Theatre, Crewe · 45 min Sat 29 May (May half term), 1.30pm£10–25

Sat 29 May

Jurassic Wild: The Musical Adventure (life-size dinosaur show) Wythenshawe Forum · 15 min Sat & Sun of May half term, 12 noon and 4pm£10–25

Mon 31 May

Jurassic Wild: The Musical Adventure M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool · 55 min Mon 31 May 2027 (bank holiday, May half-term), 12pm & 4pm (doors 11am & 3pm)£10–25

Tue 1 Jun

Mog the Forgetful Cat (new musical stage show, Judith Kerr) Liverpool Playhouse, Liverpool city centre (Williamson Square) · 55 min Tue 1 to Sat 5 Jun 2027 (likely May half-term week); performance times TBCNot on sale yetUnder £10

Wed 2 Jun

Pip and Posy - Live On Stage! HOME, Manchester city centre · 30 min Date unconfirmed · Wed 2 - Fri 4 Jun (May half term); times not confirmed£10–25

Sat 5 Jun

Dinosaur Adventure Live: Trouble on Volcano Island Stockport Plaza · 25 min Sat 5 Jun 2027, 2pm (end of May half term)£10–25

Sun 6 Jun

Horrible Histories Live: Horrible Henrys Lyceum Theatre, Crewe · 45 min Sun 6 Jun 2027; performance times on the Lyceum booking page£10–25

Thu 17 Jun

Disney's Frozen (Garrick musical) Altrincham Garrick Playhouse · 10 min Evenings 7.30pm (17–19 and 23–26 June), matinees Sat 19 and Sat 26 June 2.30pm, Sun 20 June 4pm.£10–25

Thu 17 Jun

Disney's Frozen (Garrick summer musical) Altrincham Garrick Playhouse · 10 min Thu 17 - Sat 26 Jun; evenings plus weekend matinees (times to be confirmed)£10–25

Thu 24 Jun

Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain (Birmingham Stage Company) Opera House Manchester · 30 min Thu 24 Jun 1.30pm; Fri 25 Jun 10.30am & 6.30pm; Sat 26 Jun 2.30pm & 6.30pm£10–25

Fri 2 Jul

Hairspray The Musical (new UK tour launches in Manchester) Palace Theatre, Manchester city centre · 30 min Fri 2 - Sun 18 Jul; evening and matinee performances (see ATG)£25+

Thu 8 Jul

Hot Ice 2027 (world-champion skaters' ice spectacular) Blackpool Pleasure Beach · 80 min Mon–Sat; 2.30pm matinee and 7pm evening shows, no Sunday performances£10–25

Sun 11 Jul

Messy Café at St George’s (family crafts, games and cake) St George's Church, Altrincham · 10 min Sunday 1–2.30pm. Drop in any time; crafts, stories, songs and cake.Under £10

Tue 13 Jul

Back To The Future The Musical Opera House Manchester · 30 min 13 Jul-21 Aug 2027; evenings 7.30pm, matinees Wed & Sat 2.30pm£25+

Sat 17 Jul

Alice Frozen in a Wonderland of Dreams (summer family ice show) Blackpool Pleasure Beach · 80 min 2.30pm performances; included with a same-day Pleasure Beach eTicketUnder £10

Tue 20 Jul

Singin' in the Rain (Lyric Theatre summer run) The Lowry, Salford Quays · 18 min Tue 20 - Sat 31 Jul; evenings plus matinees£25+

Sat 7 Aug

Dinosaur World Live (interactive dinosaur puppet show) Lyceum Theatre, Crewe · 45 min Sat 7 Aug 2pm; Sun 8 Aug 3pm (summer holidays)£10–25

Sun 12 Sep

The Dinosaur That Pooped (live stage show) Parr Hall, Warrington · 30 min Sun 12 Sep 2027, 3.30pm£10–25