Here are some of the best places to catch firework displays from in Greater Manchester
The best view points and vantage points in Greater Manchester to see fireworks this New Year’s Eve (Image: Ryan Jenkinson / Manchester Evening News)
Nothing kicks off the start of New Year quite like an impressive fireworks display. As clocks strike midnight fireworks will be let off across the country, ringing in the start of 2026.
In Manchester city centre a free fireworks display will be taking place in St Peter’s Square for the second year in a row. Opening at 10pm, DJs will deliver the party atmosphere ahead of the display at midnight.
While not holding a display of its own, nearby Albert Square will remain open as well, so people can catch the display from there. More details on the events can be found here.
Across Greater Manchester there will be a range of public and private displays taking place, from pubs putting on displays to people hosting their own fireworks. Even if you’re not planning on going to a display, you’ll probably be able to catch sight of them depending on where you are.
Many firework displays will be held across Greater Manchester to ring in the New Year (Image: Manchester Evening News)
We’ve rounded up some of the best view and vantage points across Greater Manchester to see the displays from. It’s important to make sure you stay safe in the dark and be considerate when driving and parking up at rural locations.
If you’re visiting somewhere remote don’t go alone and bring a torch with you. If it’s cold and wet make sure you’re wearing appropriate clothing.
St Peter’s Square, Manchester
Crowds gather in St Peter’s Square for New Year’s Eve fireworks 2024(Image: Sean Hansford)
St Peter’s Square will host a big free fireworks display for the second time, offering revellers a party atmosphere right in the city centre. The family-friendly event will feature DJs playing party tunes and will be hosted by BBC Radio Manchester presenter Joe McGrath.
At midnight the firework and light display will go off from the roof of Manchester’s Central Library building. The event kicks off at 10pm, it is standing room only and once the capacity of 20,000 is reached there will be no further entry. The event is also alcohol free.
Albert Square, Manchester
After six years Albert Square returned to the Christmas market circuit this year with a mini-market and funfair rides, all of which remain open until January 4. On New Year’s Eve the square will stay open late until 12.30am, offering people the chance to enjoy the rides and tuck into tasty treats.
Open throughout the day as usual on New Year’s Eve, entry into Albert Square will continue to be allowed throughout the evening on a controlled basis using the existing entry points until it reaches capacity which will be 2,000. The event will end at 12.30am. It’s important to note there will not be a separate fireworks display in Albert Square, but given the fact it’s just round the corner from St Peter’s Square you should be able to spot them. For more details on this event and the St Peter’s Square display, click here.
Tandle Hill Country Park, Oldham
Tandle Hill offers incredible views across Greater Manchester (Image: Kenny Brown | Manchester Evening News)
This sprawling country park is a popular spot for walks during the day and offers amazing views across Manchester, Oldham and Rochdale. On a clear day you can even see as far as Cheshire and North Wales. After dark it also offers a brilliant vantage point to watch the fireworks from.
Wernerth Low, Tameside
It’s with good reason that Werneth Low is one of the most popular view points in Greater Manchester. Located on the border of Stockport and Tameside, it offers amazing views across the city region.
You’ll be able to see fireworks light up the sky far and wide, especially if it’s a clear night. Get there early though as it can be popular.
Salford Quays, Salford
While it’s not the first choice when it comes to views, Salford Quays actually offers a great view looking across to the city’s skyline, thanks to how flat it is. There’s also lots of restaurants and bars you can head into in nearby Media City to make a night of it.
Hartshead Pike, Tameside
Hartshead Pike(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Another countryside spot with amazing views, Tameside’s Hartshead Pike offers an excellent vantage point. The Grade II-listed tower which sits on the hill was originally built in the 18th century as a warning beacon for local garrisons. Get there early if you want a good spot as it does get busy.
Peel Tower Holcombe Hill, Bury
From Holcombe Hill you can see right across Bury and Ramsbottom, as well as all the way to Manchester’s city skyline. The tower itself opened in 1852 and stands at 128ft tall. Parking is available at Lumb Carr Road Car Park (BL8 4NN).
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