Media City is often overlooked as a Christmas venue but stroll along its magically festive, tree-lined piazza and you will find a winter wonderland with plenty to amuse the family alongside an al fresco bar to get you in the Christmas spirit. This year, Media City has joined forces with its neighbours The Lowry Outlet Mall and The Lowry Theatre to create a fabulous one-stop Christmas destination with attractions that include a Christmas market, a seasonal ice-skating rink, a fantastic free light festival and foot tapping seasonal shows, as well as a shopping experience that takes the stress out of choosing the perfect gifts for your loved ones. Why not treat your favourite Coronation Street fan to a walk down the cobbles? You can book it here or pick up some free audience tickets for one of the many television shows filmed at Media City here. In the meantime though, let’s look at what Media City has to offer this Christmas…
Stock up on traditional seasonal goodies, stocking fillers and quirky Christmas gifts at the dozens of stalls spawning the piazza but do treat yourself to some of the tempting sweet treats and warm up with a mug of Glühwein available from some of the numerous food stands. Live festive entertainment can be enjoyed from the weather-proof seating area.
The fabulous full-size ice rink is open daily enabling kids and adults to polish up their skating skills. For those that prefer to stay off the ice there is a viewing area plus a bar selling hot chocolate, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages. Book your tickets here.
There’s plenty going on at The Lowry this month – here’s some of our top picks:
Dr Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
The Broadway musical sensation starring Griff Rhys Jones and X Factor’s Matt Terry runs from Tuesday 10 December – Sunday 5 January at the Lyric Theatre.
The Gruffalo’s Child
Kids of all ages will be on the edges of their seats when the Gruffalo’s Child disobeys her father’s warnings and sets out alone on a cold evening to find the Big Bad Mouse. See it at the Quays Theatre from Friday 6 December – Sunday 12 January 2020.
Snowbabies
This is the perfect first theatre experience for babies and toddlers. Mrs Claus leads this interactive sensory adventure brimming with activities that captivate and stimulate tiny minds. Snowbabies runs from Tuesday 17 – Tuesday 24 December.
December in The Studio.
At the Quays theatre, “It’s reigning queens” as the new smash hit musical Six reimagines the wives of Henry VIII as pop princesses from Tuesday 3 December – Saturday 11 January 2020.
For our full round-up of festive family there, head here.
With a “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” theme, the Makers Market takes place every weekend until Sunday 22 December. A wide range of artisanal goods crafted by local makers are displayed at stalls along the Piazza of The Lowry Outlet Mall making it a great place to find fun and quirky gifts for the most difficult to buy for whilst soaking up the festive atmosphere and indulging in some tasty homemade treats.
With its amazing range of shops and stores and shopping hours extended until 8pm Monday- Friday, The Lowry Outlet enables you to purchase all your Christmas gifts under one roof. PS, Still searching for a cool and quirky place to host your Christmas party in Manchester? Find inspiration here
www.mediacityuk.co.uk
- Words:
- Julie Al-Zoubi
- Published on:
- Sat 14 Dec 2019
Lightwaves guarantees to illuminate Salford Quays and Media City with an inspirational and interactive light show featuring digital light art from both local and international artists. Download the free festival app with its interactive map then enjoy navigating the trail and trying out the musical see-saws. Find out more by reading our full event preview.