Free things to do this weekend ft. Aeolian Light, Levy Market + Horse and Jockey

This time year may verge on a little cheesy at times, but by heck it’s pretty magical. Immerse yourself in the moment with twinkly lights, a Christmas market and a Winter Solstice day over in Chorlton. All free, too, which is magic in itself.

Aeolian Light at Salford Quays (pictured)
Befitting of this time of year’s twinkly nature, a new exclusive outdoor lighting installation opens this Thursday at Salford Quays. The Aeolian Light exhibit is the first of its kind to take place outdoors, created using wind reactive LED lighting so that visitors will be able to walk through the installation, leaving their own trails of luminescence and creating a phenomenal spectacle perfect for the lead-up to Christmas. The work has been created by artists Squid Soup for Quays Culture and The University of Salford, and will sit on the plaza between The Lowry and The Lowry Outlet.
Thu 18 Dec – Wed 7 Jan, The Plaza between The Lowry and the Outlet Mall, The Quays, M50 3AZ, 10am – 10pm, FREE, www.quaysculture.com

Levy Market Christmas special
This Fridays sees the second – and final – installment of the Levy Market’s festive night specials, and also the last event of 2014 before its triumphant return in March. With 40 traders all setting up temporary shop to sell you food, crafts and festive treats, you’ll find the likes of Winter Tarn Farm, Case Solved Wines, Bobby’s Bangers, Trove and more all supplying ample Christmas gifting potential. All taking place after dark, you can wrap up and gorge upon an lip-smacking selection of mince pies, chocolates, Christmas cakes and puddings.
Fri 19 Dec, Levensulme Market, Farmside Place, Levenshulme, M19 3AB, 4 – 9pm, www.levymarket.com

Winter Solstice at Chorlton Green
For one day only the Horse and Jockey is transforming Chorlton Green into a winter wonderland spectacular in celebration of the shortest day of the year. Featuring Christmas music from local bands and choirs, there will also be entertainment in the form of funfair rides and Father Christmas handing out presents, whilst his reindeer chill out in the background ready for you to meet. Pop on down, kick back with a mulled cider and/or mulled wine and get yourself into seasonally good spirits.
Sat 20 Dec, The Horse and Jockey and Chorlton Green, 3 – 8pm, FREE, www.facebook.com