Free firework displays are set to return to Manchester this November, with displays set to be held across three of the region’s most popular parks.
On Sat 7 Nov, free family-friendly events will be taking place at Wythenshawe Park, Heaton Park and Platt Fields Park, featuring both a reduced-noise, low-impact display at 5pm for families and SEND audiences, and a main fireworks display at 8pm.
Each of the parks will host lantern-making workshops in the weeks leading up to the events, with lantern parades taking place ahead of the 8pm firework shows. Additional entertainment will be announced for each park in the coming weeks.
Major fireworks events had been paused in 2019 following the Covid-19 pandemic, when funding challenges spurred a change of direction, with the Council choosing to invest in a range of community-focused events across the city’s parks through the autumn season – rather than the major one-off fireworks events.
The council says that these community-focused events will still take place and are set to expand further in local parks this year, particularly in the run-up to and during the October half-term school holiday, with a mix of themed activities. Further details will be announced in the coming weeks.
Councillor Garry Bridges, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “I’m delighted we’re keeping the Fireworks this year in Manchester.
“Residents tell us how important it is to create opportunities for our communities to come together and celebrate. Our fireworks display is exactly one of those events that bridge culture and background – and so it’s fantastic to bring back these free community displays that give families, friends and neighbours a shared experience – and without cost being a barrier.
“I’ve been to the Fireworks show in Manchester pretty much every year we’ve held them and I’ve seen how much they are valued by residents of all cultures and backgrounds.
“It is even more important that everyone feels welcome and able to participate which is why we have designed our early evening display with inclusivity for families with young children and people with SEND as an essential element of the day and evening celebrations ensuring that no-one has to miss out on the fun.”
Councillor Basat Sheikh, Executive Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “We are delighted to announce and welcome the return of our much-loved fireworks celebrations. Our parks should be shared spaces that create opportunities for Manchester people to gather, which is why bringing back the fireworks displays was top of our agenda. And we also recognise the importance of community which is why we will also continue to invest in a wide range of activities in our parks throughout the year.
“The return of these events is a wonderful opportunity for families and communities to create lasting memories and enjoy the long-standing tradition of fireworks in our parks in a safe way. I, like many people, can’t wait for it.”
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- Words:
- Bradley Lengden
- Published on:
- Wed 16 Sep 2026
