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Christmas is officially on its way to Manchester, and this year, the city’s neighbourhoods are lighting up like never before. With big Santa Zippy back in the mix, a joyful parade on its way, and our world-renowned Christmas Market back and bustling, the festive season is bursting to life in every corner of the city.
Manchester Christmas Markets are back Photo: Mark Waugh
For many Mancs, Christmas is about more than shopping lists and mince pies; it’s a time to come together, celebrate friendship, and share some hometown pride. That’s exactly what Manchester City Council is championing this year, as it rolls out funding through the Neighbourhood Investment Fund (NIF) to support festive fun across local communities.
What is the Neighbourhood Investment Fund?
The NIF is a special investment pot available to every ward in Manchester, with up to £20,000 in grant funding to help make neighbourhoods even better places to live. The fund supports everything from community clean-ups to arts projects and, this season, a sleigh-load of Christmas events bringing neighbours together.
Expect to see local light switch-ons, festive fairs, winter parades, and all sorts of community celebrations popping up throughout November and December, giving everyone the chance to soak up some seasonal spirit right on their doorstep.
Cllr Lee-Ann Igbon
Councillor Lee-Ann Igbon, Executive Member for Vibrant Neighbourhoods, said: “While we all know and love our world-famous Christmas markets, there’s nothing quite like sharing the Christmas spirit with our friends and neighbours, in the place we call home.
We know how important it is that people can feel proud of where they live and be part of a strong community. That’s why I’m so proud the Council can help support these neighbourhood events and make this time of year extra special.”
Pat Karney
And the city’s very own Christmas spokesman, Councillor Pat Karney, couldn’t agree more: “Christmas is a time like no other, when we can come together as friends, neighbours and colleagues to celebrate one another and ring in some festive cheer.
“I’m incredibly proud we can use the Neighbourhood Investment Fund to brighten up people’s winter, and I can’t wait to kick things off in Harpurhey with our lights switch-on at the end of the week!”
So whether you’re wrapping up for your local light switch-on, heading to a community carol service, or just soaking up that magical Manchester buzz, this festive season, it’s all about celebrating where you live.
What’s happening in Manchester this Christmas?
Find out what’s happening near you, from events and timings to local festivities, by visiting the Manchester City Council website here
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