Last minute family events in Manchester next week

[RosieLeaLovesTea]

Hi all
we are going to a family funeral in Manchester next week - only got the date yesterday and it’s Friday next week. We have decided to stay a
few days. Are there any good kids events or family attractions or places to visit that so not need to be booked in advance? What is worth seeing?
Thanks!

Manchester has one of the best Christmas Markets in the UK.
You'd have to book for ice skating but the markets are free.
Also Trafford Centre has its Xmas rides etc - it is cheaper to book online ahead though for that.

Manchester Christmas Markets 2023 Dates for Xmas
Christmassive - The Trafford Centre

Actually not a lot in it for entry to their Xmas fair on the day or online.
There are also Xmas lights trails but these do need to be booked ahead and are quite expensive. Heaton Park Xmas trail is doable on the tram or by car. Family £47 off peak.
Ticket Options (seetickets.com)

Do not go to the Xmas markets on a weekend unless your kids are older. It’s packed and full of drinkers and just not pleasant.

These are much nicer: https://www.themakersmarket.co.uk/pages/december and at Salford Quays this weekend. You can go there on the tram and if your kids are little there’s a Julia Donaldson exhibition. It’s free and there are still tickets.

Otherwise the Manchester museum and MOSI have been done up and I’ve heard good things.

You could also check out Ancoats / escape to freight island for city centre based things.

Lightwaves Festival Returns To MediaCity And Salford Quays This Winter (secretmanchester.com)

FREE light display festival Thursday 7th to Sunday 10th December at Salford Quays

Yes, pp is correct that the city centre is always packed but I assumed you were staying before next Friday so mid week easier.

To avoid Manchester Christmas markets | Mumsnet

Hmm, maybe only go if you are going early at the start of the week?
Trafford Centre also has Sea Life and Lego Centre but both are dear. The mini golf in the centre and the nearby Dino Mini Golf slightly better value.
If you subscribe to Trafford Centre emails, there may be a discount?