Get your skates on for last minute festive fun

20,000 attend Christmas light’s switch-on, millions visit Manchester’s biggest ever Christmas Market, more than 20,000 visit Piccadilly Snow Gardens and more than 30,000 on the ice at Spinningfields

With more festive attractions in the city than ever before, this has been Manchester's best ever Christmas.

Excitement and festive cheer have swept the city as much as the wintry weather this year and the events and activities have ensured that the Christmas celebrations have really sparkled for 2009.

But it's not over yet.

There's still chance to enjoy the Spinningfields Ice Rink, with the temporary North Pole bar and enchanting carousel ride, as well as all the attractions that have created Piccadilly Snow Gardens in the heart of the city this year, until Sunday 3 January 2009.

Don't miss the adrenaline rush of the snow slide, the thrill of the snowball bungee or the magic of the snowglobe, where you can capture your winter wonderland memories in a photograph.

Councillor Pat Karney, Manchester City Council's city centre spokesperson said: "We have extended the Christmas season in the city centre so that families can enjoy the attractions throughout the school holidays. We've got the best Christmas celebrations and the longest season of fun attractions in the UK, to make sure there's plenty of chance for everyone to enjoy themselves."

Spinningfields Ice Rink and Piccadilly Snow Gardens are open until Sunday 3 January 2009 including New Year's Day.

A free firework display will also take place at New Year in Exchange Square by the big wheel. The 10-minute display will begin on the stroke of midnight to welcome in 2010.