As of writing this piece, it is less than 70 days before Christmas 2024, and already the seasonal events are starting to take shape across the United Kingdom, including the North West of England.
Be it the illuminations in Blackpool or the annual light show that takes place at Liverpool Cathedral, there is plenty to do this year around the region and to help you decide, we’ve selected 17 events set to take place from November 2024 for those stuck for ideas what to do with the family in the run up to Christmas.
Many of these events are free, but in the event you’ve decided that one of our selections is ticketed, we’ve tried to look at keeping costs down to below £20. That might seem a lot, but a number of those events that are ticketed do include all the “Christmas trimmings” making them value for money.
So before Santa Claus starts his courier job across the world this year, here’s a couple of opportunities where you can meet him in the North West, alongside some traditional festive concerts - some in the name of a good cause.
9. Alfie The Elf's Christmas Rescue
Join Alfie for this 45 minute show as she brings her fabulous stories to life, cracks jokes and tells us all how Christmas really works in Santa’s workshop. Alfie the Elf’s Christmas Rescue is a wonderful yuletide treat for children and their families, guaranteed to make this Christmas truly magical, as it plays at the Octagon Bolton from December 13 2024. | Octagon Bolton
10. Santa at East Lancashire Railways
Steam into Christmas on the East Lancashire Railway’s famously festive Santa Specials from November 23 2024. Your family will make enchanted memories to share as they take a trip through the magical Irwell Valley alongside colourful characters and surprises. What Christmas treat would be complete without a visit from a host of happy elves and Santa Claus himself. | AFP via Getty Images
11. The Twilight Trail
The immersive light and sound show, running for 31 mesmerising days throughout winter 2024, will transform Mayfield Park into a twinkling, city-centre escape. Step into a world of enchantment right in the heart of the city this winter with the Twilight Trail at Mayfield Park from November 14 2024. | Broadwick Live/Freight Island/Depot Mayfield
12. Christmas Concert with Brass Band
The Oldham Choral Society will once again be entertaining audiences in the area with their Christmas Concert, taking place at Oldham Parish Church on December 20 2024 from 7:30pm. | AFP via Getty Images