What’s On in Manchester: October – December 2025

By Laura on 13/10/2025

Manchester
As the year ends, Manchester offers a mix of culture, entertainment, and festive experiences that make it a great destination for business visitors, conferences, or client and team events. From October through to the New Year, there’s a wide range of activities that combine professional opportunities with leisure and seasonal celebrations.

October- Arts & Culture

Manchester Literature Festival (4 – 19 Oct)

This festival brings writers from around the world to the city, with talks, workshops, and performances across multiple venues. It’s a thoughtful choice for client meetings or team outings that combine culture with conversation.

 

  • Halloween in Manchester (26 – 27 Oct)
  • The city hosts family-friendly and adult-focused events across museums, galleries, and public spaces. From interactive trails to themed dinners, it’s a way to offer a memorable experience outside the usual corporate setting.

November- The Start of the Festive Season

  • Manchester Christmas Markets (From 7 Nov)Europe’s largest Christmas markets return, with festive food, drinks, and gift stalls across the city. They provide an informal setting for client meet-ups or team get-togethers.
    • Lightopia, Heaton Park (21 Nov – Jan)
    • An outdoor festival of lights with immersive displays and seasonal attractions. This is a striking way to offer a unique evening experience for colleagues or clients.
    • Snow White at Manchester Opera House (From 8 Nov)

    A traditional festive pantomime with humour, music, and audience interaction. A relaxed option for corporate nights out or team celebrations.

    December – Christmas in Full Swing

    The Hallé Christmas Concerts at Bridgewater Hall

    A programme of seasonal music, from classic carols to festive performances. A refined choice for client hospitality or team entertainment.

    Love Actually in Concert at O2 Apollo (Dates TBC)

    The film soundtrack performed live by an orchestra ideal for a festive evening with colleagues or clients.

    • Winter Funland at BEC Arena
    • An indoor fairground with ice rinks, rides, and circus performances. Great for a family-friendly corporate outing or team event.

    Why Manchester this season?

    Manchester offers a combination of business-ready venues and seasonal experiences that work well together. Whether you’re arranging a conference, hosting clients, or rewarding staff, there’s plenty on offer to make a visit feel special. Many venues fill up quickly for this period, so early planning is essential. 

     

    If you’re looking at hosting an event, arranging client entertainment, or exploring options for conferences and group stays, we can help source the right venue or packages for you at no cost to your business.