It’s now so close to the big day that we can practically smell the pigs in blankets, so as we rock around the Christmas tree and into the last weekend before the 25th we’ve compiled an array of festive events to get you all in the mood. As per, each one is completely free and completely amazing. Don’t say we never gave you anything.

Victorian Christmas Weekend in Oldham town centre (pictured)
Just a hop, skip and a jump from Manchester’s city centre, the Victorian Christmas Weekend in Oldham promises two magical days to get you prepped for Christmas Eve Eve on Monday. Expect plenty of street entertainers, tap dancing turkeys, Dickensian performers, steampunk songs from the Gaslights comedy band, a traditional carousel and coconut shy, and best of all: FREE roasted chestnuts. It doesn’t get more festive than free roasted chestnuts.
Sat 21 – Sun 22 Dec, Oldham town centre, Oldham, 10am – 5pm, FREE, www.visitoldham.com

Levy Market Christmas Special
The Levenshulme Market (known as the Levy Market to its close pals) has managed to obtain a massive following among Mancunions and day-trippers alike, so much so that it now seems to have won itself a bit of a cult status. After a booming year, visitors are now being treated to a Christmas special twilight session this Friday, featuring all of their usual suspects including traders in antiques, homemade crafts and food and drink. Read our full preview here.
Fri 20 Dec, Shopper’s car park (next to Levenshulme station), M19 3PJ, 4pm – 10pm, FREE, www.levymarket.co.uk

Gin and Tonic Vintage fair at Terrace
Gin and Tonic Vintage returns to the Northern Quarter’s Terrace bar this Saturday for another afternoon of vintage shopping with a festive twist. As their final bash of 2013, you’ll be treated to 50% off many items and lots of last-minute Christmas present potential (whether it’s for your Secret Santa or a treat for yourself). Shopping, boozing and eating all under one roof – convenient or what?
Sat 21 Dec, Terrace Bar, Thomas Street, Northern Quarter, M4, 1 – 6pm, FREE, www.facebook.com

Winter Solstice in Chorlton
Everyone’s favourite South Manchester suburb gets a magical makeover as it celebrates the shortest day of the year. The Horse and Jockey will be transforming Chorlton Green into a seasonally suitable winter wonderland and providing entertainment with visits from Santa, funfair rides and choirs, whilst The Spoon Inn welcomes guests in with live music, DJs and a record fair and art sale. Check out all the deets with our full preview here.
Sat 21 Dec, Various venues in Chorlton, Various times, FREE, www.facebook.com

Sat 21 Dec - Sun 22 Dec
Words:
Jess Hardiman
Published on:
Fri 20 Dec 2013