Manchester’s first ever Christmas opening ceremony is happening this weekend

Manchester is going all out for Christmas this year with its first ever ‘First Day of Christmas’ ceremony. 

Now, the city is already gearing up to host a whole array of festive events following the disaster that was last Christmas (thanks, Covid), such as the return of the iconic Christmas Markets, the UK’s largest outdoor winter market and a ton of other mulled wine-fuelled fun.

But this year, for the first time, Manchester will be having its very own Christmas opening ceremony, complete with live bands and entertainment.

Manchester City Council

Manchester City Council

The city-wide event, organised by the Manchester Business Improvement District, will see more than fifty performers appear on the city’s streets throughout the day as they help Manchester not only celebrate the ‘first day of Christmas’, but bring a bit of festive joy to all.

Visitors will also be able to meet the beautiful puppet Aurora and her Arctic Fox in an unmissable roaming performance on Exchange Square by the Scandinavian Global Grooves, while stilt-walking reindeers making their way into the city centre.

Over at The Royal Exchange Manchester, visitors will be transported to Narnia where they can meet the Ice Queens at Photo Corner as well as see The Living Lamp Posts as they illuminate the streets of Manchester, while a life-size Snow Globe Queen entertains crowds over on St Ann’s Square.

Manchester City Council

Manchester City Council

Families will also be able to enjoy music courtesy of a live brass brand throughout the afternoon with Bloco Brass Band and, in the evening, SPARK! Band’s one of a kind light up Christmas Music Show.

Other entertainment will come courtesy of the Winter Circus as they welcome you into the city from Deansgate and onto Market Street.

First Day of Christmas celebrations will take place across the city this Saturday, November 13th, the day after the opening of the Christmas Markets. Locations and times of acts may change on the day, so head over to the council’s website for more information.