Manchester's Festive Sundays
As well as our unforgettable Christmas Parade on Sunday 3 December, in the run up to Christmas the city centre will host three Festive Sunday events – and they’re all free. Get wrapped up in a festive fantasy for a family day out like no other as captivating performers and illuminated acts take to the streets.
Sunday 26 November
12-7pm: Manchester Arndale, Exchange Square, New Cathedral Street, Exchange Street, St Ann’s Square, King Street and Deansgate
Expect a magical takeover across the city centre with giant roaming puppets, street performers, and live music. Don’t miss an encounter with bewitching woodland creatures: larger-than-life robins, the meandering arctic fox, a giant snowy owl, and beautiful, illuminated reindeer.
Meanwhile, a band of enchanted festive friends bring magic to the city. Meet living lampposts, talking Christmas trees, a giant roaming snow globe and extraordinary puppet duo, Hodman Dodmanott and Sally Forth – two Christmas elf adventurers with a lot on their minds (and even more on their backs!).
All accompanied by the vibrant sights and sounds of the Fat Cat Brass Band and Bloco Band bringing Christmas cheer and tunes to the streets of Manchester.
Sunday 10 and 17 December
12noon, 2pm and 4pm: St Ann’s Square
Our final two Festive Sundays will see a stunning Toy Procession take to our Christmas Markets.
Created by Walk the Plank, the procession will feature giant stilt-walking acts such as Christmas Crackers, Sugar Plum Fairies, Toy Soldiers, Christmas Elves and a sparkling Fairy Mouse, bringing magical street entertainment to Manchester on the run-up to Christmas Day.
Festive Sundays are being delivered in partnership with Manchester Business Improvement District.