Families Manchester Issue 54 November-December 2015

Edition 54 • Nov/Dec 2015

The local magazine for families with children 0-12 years www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

@FamiliesManch facebook.com/familiesmanchester

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® MANCHESTER It’s the most wonderful time of the year! > Panto’s & family shows > Shopping fairs and gift ideas > Where’s Santa?

Covering: Altrincham, Trafford, Salford, Manchester, Bolton, Bury, Rochdale, Didsbury, Stockport, Cheadle, Bramhall, and surrounding areas.

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News In this issue 02: News 03: Education 06: Parents’ place 09: Clubs & classes 10: Christmas shopping 13: Where’s Santa?

15: Panto’s & family shows 18: What’s on

Hello!

Is it just us, or is time moving faster and faster? It seems crazy to already be thinking about Christmas, when the summer holiday memories haven’t quite faded and our children are only just getting into the swing of school again.

Of course, we’re not helped by the early display of Christmas paraphernalia in the shops – and we confess we succumbed to the delights of our first mince pie in early October. That doesn’t bode very well for the hips!

As usual you’ll find there’s loads to see and do around the area during this time – and we’ve pulled it all together for you as best we can. Of course, not everything is available when we need it, so keep checking our online what’s on calendar for updated info – www.familiesmanchester.co.uk Cheers! to a very happy festive season.

Caryl Hall

Jayne Keep

Next issue: Jan/Feb 2016 Circulation: 25,000 copies of Families Manchester are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected shops and other points throughout Greater Manchester.

If you would like free copies for your organisation, please let us know.

Print: Bishops Printers, Walton Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO6 1TR Tel: 023 9233 4900 www.bishops.co.uk

Families Manchester is part of Families Magazines Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Contact details: Families Manchester, Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, 3 Hall Hill, Bollington SK10 5ED Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The Tel: 01625 801 801 www.familiesmanchester.co.uk contents of Families Manchester are fully protected by Editorial: editor@familiesmanchester.co.uk copyright and none of the editorial or photographic Advertising/artwork: advertising@familiesmanchester.co.uk matter may be reproduced in any form without prior Events, diary dates, what’s on: events@familiesmanchester.co.uk consent of the publisher.

We take every care preparing the magazine, but the Cover photography: Shutterstock publishers and distributors can’t be held responsible Design: Paul Wilson Graphic Design, Congleton. for the claims of advertisers, the accuracy of the Tel: 07743 111 694 www.withpaul.co.uk contents nor for any consequences.

Families’ choice of top titles for different ages

By Justine Crow, parent of three and co-owner of her own bookshop, The Bookseller Crow on Hill (www.booksellercrow.co.uk) Baby & Toddler Walter’s Wonderful Web by Tim Hopgood Macmillan RRP 5.99 This sweet board book from the author of Wow! Said the Owl, is an introduction to shapes delivered with the same bold, robust flourish as the previous book.

Age Three to Five years Please Mr Panda by Steve Antony Hodder RRP 6.99 We grown-ups are very good at demanding manners from our little people but how do we teach them? Bribery, that’s how and Panda is on hand with an awful lot of naughty doughnuts. But nobody gets any until they say: “Please!”

6 - 8 years The Not So Little Princess, Where’s Gilbert? by Tony Ross & Wendy Finney Andersen RRP 5.99 The Little Princess did great work for us parents in the potty training, bedtime and pets departments. Now she is older, she stars in a new Early Reader series along with the original cast of bonkers characters from the palace. Though she has lost her teddy, she has lost none of her zest.

Age 9+ Magnus Chase & the Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan Penguin RRP 14.99 Our pint-sized protagonist’s Pop knocks things down on purpose - both buildings AND people - but as George Biggs says: life isn’t about how you get knocked down, it’s how you get back up again. With hilarious illustrations by Sara Ogilvie.

Jamie’s Sugar Rush inspires sugar cuts

@FamiliesManch www.facebook.com/familiesmanchester

All babies to be protected against meningitis

A new vaccine to protect babies against meningitis B has been introduced for all childhood vaccinations for babies aged two, four and 24 months.

Since September 2015, all babies have routinely been given the meningitis vaccine at their regular vaccination

appointments. The scheme was delayed by cost disputes but is now the first national, publically funded programme against this deadly infection in the world.

It should protect babies and children against 90% of meningococcal group B bacteria. This can affect babies under the age of one and can be caught up to around the age of five years. If left untreated, it can cause damage to the brain and cause blood poisoning. It can also kill.

The Men ACWY vaccine will also be offered to all 17 and 18 year olds who are starting university this year.

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Jamie Oliver’s groundbreaking TV programme Sugar Rush, which explored the relationship between obesity in kids and the hidden sugars in everyday foods, has led to many City councils calling for a ‘sugar tax’.

Brighton and Hove council is introducing a 10p surcharge on sugary

soft drinks and is putting the proceeds towards a children’s health and food education trust.

They are also supporting the introduction of healthy vending machines in schools and food education classes in primary school classrooms.

The council is responding, like many other bodies across the UK, to the celebrity chef’s investigations into the quantities of sugar hidden in food. England has one of the highest rates of childhood obesity in Europe and teenagers may be eating up to three times the recommended sugar intake every day.

Jamie Oliver has also introduced a sugar tax in his restaurants and the proceeds are going towards the Children’s Health Fund.

Smoking banned in cars with kids From this Autumn, smoking in a car when there are children in it has been banned. The new law has come into force in England and Wales where drivers could face a fine of £50.

Anti-smoking groups have welcomed

the law, pointing out the potential harm passive smoking can cause to children.

However, spokespeople for the police have said that they will advise parents not to smoke rather than enforcing fines.

They say that it is not a major road safety issue.

Education Education Secretary calls for schools to provide childcare Education Secretary Nicky Morgan has said that schools should take “reasonable steps” to provide childcare for the whole length of the working day during term time and the school holidays too.

As part of this move, parents are to be given the right to request that their children’s schools put this care structure into place. However, the funding for this has not been agreed.

Head teachers have said that this idea would have to be looked at “extremely carefully to ensure it is not just a popular gimmick.”

Russell Hobby, general secretary of the

National Association of Head Teachers, has responded to say that while giving care for children while parents are working is a good idea, there are several reasons to be wary of the Government’s promise. Budget cuts and recruitment issues are just two of the reasons why schools might not be able to provide care from early in the day until after parents finish work.

He continued: “Parents can ask but the government must guarantee that a school’s decision is respected. Otherwise, it is merely going to provoke conflict between schools and their communities and would undermine the decision-making of head teachers.

Shortage of teachers a “crisis” A Head Teacher has warned that a shortage of teachers and a rising number of pupils will create “a perfect storm” for English schools.

Allan Foulds of Cheltenham Bournside School has said at the Conservative Party conference that the schools system is near breaking point.

Mr. Foulds is president of the Association of School and College Leaders, which says that there are too few teachers currently going through training to be able to meet the numbers needed. A low birth rate in the late

1990s means fewer graduates now available and choosing to go into teaching. This is compounded by the number of school children under 16 being set to rise to a peak of 7.85 million by 2020.

Mr Foulds said: “There is a real danger that a system which is already under severe strain will reach breaking point and that schools will be forced to drop more courses and increase class sizes further.

“This situation puts in jeopardy the huge progress that has been made by schools and undermines the drive to further raise standards.”

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 3

Education

4 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Education When friends fall out: how to help your child cope with playground arguments

Masai return to Lady Barn

By Liat Hughes Joshi

The dreaded playground squabble has struck, the tears are rolling and you’re unsure as to how to help...

Relax: it’s normal Primary school children fall out (and in again) as quickly as a round of Hokey Cokey.

Most squabbles are soon forgotten: kids rarely bear grudges the way grown-ups do.

Reassure, hug and listen Even if it’ll blow over, your child could feel like their world is collapsing.

Help them to help themselves Instead of providing solutions, encourage your child to think through what they could do to resolve this, but with your guidance.

Resist the temptation to wade in!

Your parental instincts are urging you to tackle the little blighter concerned, or their parents, but hold back. Confronting the other child isn’t appropriate under any circumstances.

Approaching their parents is a minefield too: they probably won’t accept their child has done anything wrong. Plus, chances are the children will make up, potentially leaving an awkward feud between the parents.

When to see their teacher…

If whatever happened involved physical violence, is persistent, and/or your child starts not wanting to go to school, then do discuss it with their teacher. They can then keep a closer eye on the children.

See this as a learning experience There might have been tears but chances are your child will have learnt more about relationships and friendships along the way.

Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including ‘New Old-fashioned Parenting’ and ‘How to Unplug Your Child’ (both published by Summersdale) and Raising Children: The Primary Years (Pearson).

Last year Masai men and women visited Lady Barn House School, chanting songs of peace and eternal friendship as part of a nationwide tour to raise funds for vital facilities in their new settlement in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley.

This year they returned to show the school’s young geographers pictures of their school’s new solar power systems, its two new classrooms and their brand new orphanage and to thank them for helping with the transformation of the village.

Formerly a nomadic tribe moving from pasture to pasture, the Masai are now becoming settlers both in Kenya and Northern Tanzania but are continuing their travelling tradition by touring the world to raise funds to

establish their villages. They bring with them the beads and jewellery they have been wearing since the 15th Century and the start of the dispersion of their unique civilisation, selling these on to the parents as part of their fundraising.

Party leader Tajeu Oleminise told the children that thanks to their tours their tribe has built a medical centre, water station and church.

Headmistress Sheila Marsh said: “The Masai tribe give our boys and girls a special insight into the life and customs of a people who lead very different lives from their own. They bring with them a fabulous sense of joyfulness, warmth and energy.”

Pictured with the Masai troupe are Lady Barn House Year Six pupils Theo Wong (10) and Erin Renshaw (10).

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 5

Parents’ place ARE YOU FEELING LUCKY?!

Chocolate heaven

By Jayne Keep

WIN a Scalextric Birthday Party!

Scale Models in Goyt Mill, Marple offer Scalextric Birthday parties for children of all ages (min age 6).

They are home to the largest permanent track in the country – an 8 lane circuit over 100ft, computer controlled to 1000th of a second! The beauty of Scalextric is that total novices can find themselves racing competitively in only a few minutes – so it’s a fabulous fun outing for everyone.

A 2 hour party (minimum 12 people) consists of a supervised Scalextric tournament with lots of races, and a Grand Final and Podium presentation at the end. During a short interval (you are welcome to bring along party food and a cake), the adult helpers/guest get their chance to have a go too!

And here’s your chance to WIN a private party for up to 12 guests valued at £144! Simply head over to our website www.familiesmanchester.co.uk to enter. Competition closes Friday 11 December.

Hands up who likes chocolate? Ok, it might be easier to ask who doesn’t! For a party solution to please everyone from tots to grown-ups you can’t go far wrong with a party all about chocolate.

For Isabella’s 7th birthday we visited Oliver Dunn at his Chocolate Party Room in High Lane (Stockport) to celebrate in sticky, scrumptious style. To get the kids started there was some chocolatier hat decorating so everyone looked the part. Then it was on to the serious business of designing some amazing chocs. All the children made chocolate mobile phones, flowers, rabbits and lollies which they got to take home and enjoy.

Oliver literally kept the chocolate flowing with an amazing supply of liquid white and milk chocolate working its way around as the children piped their designs into the moulds. Oliver even gave us a special treat – chocolate moustaches piped straight on to us (yes I got one too!); messy but yummy.

And the party was perfectly rounded off with an amazing personalised chocolate cake.

Oliver can adapt his parties for any age, the options with chocolate seem to be endless, from chocolate pizza parties for little ones, though to truffle making for teens. He is also available for adult parties. Parties can be held at the exclusive venue in High Lane, or at a venue of your choice.

For more info visit www.oliverschocolateparties.co.uk/thechocolate-room, call 01663 762 056 or email info@olichocparty.co.uk

For any more information about these brilliant parties, or to book your own (not just for kids!), then contact Julie: 01625 876325 / 07715 504035 / julie@scalemodels.co.uk / www.scalextricbirthdayparties.co.uk

Advertise in Families Manchester

Call Jayne on: 01625 801801 or email advertising@ familiesmanchester.co.uk

6 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Parents’ place Eat well this Christmas

The “cosy, snuggle up in front of the fire” months of November and December are perfect for wholesome soups and stews making use of the fabulous root veggies and brassicas the UK season is providing for us. It’s also time to make plans for Christmas!

Foodlife has Christmas covered; as well as providing fantastic weekly Organic fruit & vegetable boxes, they have all the goodies you will need for your Christmas table and unique gift ideas from their fantastic Christmas gift range. From organic hampers

to soaps, local honey boxes to coffee gift bags; you’ll find something for everyone. Or why not arrange to have a box of Organic vegetables delivered as a gift?!

This local, independent, family business was recognised by the Soil Association as being one of the top 4 Organic box schemes in the whole of the UK, after achieving finalist status in the Soil Association Organic awards 2014 – what an achievement!

To celebrate this fantastic time of year, Foodlife is giving you 10% off of your 1st organic order if placed during November & December 2015. Just add the coupon code “familieschristmas15” when prompted on the website (minimum spend £12.50). Enjoy your super healthy, super tasty, super convenient (and great value!) Organic veggie boxes and Merry Christmas to you all! www.foodlifeorganic.co.uk

NOVASOL Holiday Homes in Europe

With over 40 years’ experience NOVASOL, part of Wyndham Worldwide, has more than 40,000

holiday homes in 29 European countries in Northern, Central and Southern Europe across destinations like Croatia, France, Spain, Italy and Denmark.

Why not like the NOVASOL UK Facebook page, subscribe to their newsletter and be inspired by their 2016 brochure for your next holiday? Have a look at the website today and find out more about their cottages, farmhouses, apartments and villas with pools all over Europe!

0845 680 5856 / www.novasol.co.uk / Facebook: NOVASOL UK

CHRISTMAS CRAFTS Christmas Cookie Tree Decorations

These delicious shortbread stars will look great on the tree – but we suspect they won’t be there long! This is such a simple recipe, with only three ingredients and it is quick and easy to make but shortbread is always a favourite.

They’ll only take about half an hour to make (including baking time).

Ingredients • 200g Plain flour • 100g Cool butter • 50g Caster sugar • White, green and red writing icing, (great for drawing lines and shapes) • Silver, red, green, gold or white decorations

Equipment • Large bowl • Sieve • Flat baking trays • Star cookie cutters (or other festive shapes) • Clean pencil • Silver, gold, white, green or red ribbon Method 1. With your child, measure the flour and then let your little one spoon the flour into the sieve, held above the bowl. Sift the flour.

2. Add the sugar.

3. Add the butter, cut into cubes.

4. With clean hands, show your child how to rub the butter into the flour. Keep rubbing then kneading and it should come together into a ball.

5. Without over-working the dough, roll it out on a flat surface, dusted with flour.

6. Using the cookie cutters, help your child stamp out star shapes and place them on the baking tray. Use the blunt end of the clean pencil to make a hole at the top of one of the points for the ribbon.

7. Bake at 320F/160C/Gas 6 for 12-15 minutes until golden. When cool, decorate with writing icing and any other decorations you like, such as sugar balls. Hang on the tree and see how long they stay there!

Make a Marvellous Snowy Owl

By Susie Price, Little Marvellous Craft Parties (www.facebook.com/littlemarvellous)

These little owls make a wonderful festive craft for children of all ages, and you can have fun gathering your pine cones in the beautiful countryside with your family. Enjoy!

What you’ll need: • PVA Glue • Pine cone • Cotton Wool • White Pipe Cleaner • Brown Pipe Cleaner • Silver Glitter • Scissors • 2 Goggly Eyes (we like using 2 different sized eyes for a kooky look!)

1. Make sure your pinecone is clean and bug free. You can do this by gently cooking in the oven for 20 minutes. The drying process will kill any bugs and dry the sap, leaving your cone clean and open (leave the cone overnight before crafting).

2. Stuff your cone with lots of fluffy shredded cotton wool.

3. Cut your white pipe cleaner in two, and bend each one into a wing shape. Dab a bit of glue onto the end of each wing and press into a crevice of the cone to secure.

4. Cut your brown pipe cleaner into a 2cm piece and bend into a beak shape. Dab a bit of glue onto the end and push into the cone to make a face.

5. Add a couple of goggly eyes above the beak with glue and sprinkle a touch of silver glitter to create the perfect frosty Christmas owl!

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 7

Parents’ place A celebration for all: How to have a New book to help parents with children’s Christmas party whilst being children suffering from hip condition sensitive to other faiths feeling confused about

By Emma Oliver

In today’s society, our children grow up surrounded by other faiths; definitely a reason to celebrate. Together they learn about diversity and race and can unite for the good of the community.

But how do you hold a party at Christmas and remain sensitive to one another’s needs?

Be informed - It’s not only the Christian faith that has a holiday at a similar season

as Christmas: Hanukah and Divali are also celebrated. A growing number of other faiths and families have created unique Christmas traditions, making it easier to encourage everyone to join in.

Learn from one another - Being sensitive to all needs is important but so is avoiding segregation, which can be divisive. Ultimately as a parent, you want to teach respect. Children are accepting and good at embracing the multi faith experience – we can learn a lot from them.

Celebrate - Whatever their faith, parents share values. Keep the focus on what unites people and makes us the same: laughter, love and friendship – catering for all with a happy time.

Emma Oliver is a journalist who has worked for various magazines and websites, mainly covering travel and parenting. She is also a mum to two young girls. When she’s not off gadding she can be found blogging: WritingLifeAsItIs.blogspot.co.uk

Cast Life – A Parent’s Guide to DDH was published this autumn and offers a vital lifeline to parents with children suffering from Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH).

DDH occurs when the ball and socket of the hip joint do not fit snugly together and whilst it can affect around one child in every thousand, information and support is shockingly poor, often leaving parents

what happens next.

Inspired by her son who was diagnosed with the condition at four months, author Natalie Trice, passionately believes that there needs to be more awareness of DDH, which if left untreated, can lead to long term disability, hip replacements and lifelong pain.

Cast Life is a comprehensive book that covers everything from explanations about the condition and details of the various treatments involved, to the various products available to make life during treatment easier. It also looks at family life and dealing with emotions, as well as featuring first person stories.

Cast Life is available on Amazon and Natalie has also set up a charity called Spica Warrior offering information about DDH, with 10% of the royalties going to this cause. She also blogs about the condition at www.justbecauseilove.co.uk

Drinking in pregnancy still controversial

Natural ways to boost your immune system

Decades after health professionals warned about the dangers of drinking alcohol in pregnancy, there is still controversy over whether it’s safe to drink during pregnancy, and if so, how much.

Current NHS guidelines say that women should avoid drinking in pregnancy. However, they also say “if you do opt to have a drink, you should stick to no more than one or two units of alcohol (equivalent to one or two small glasses of wine) once or twice a week to minimize the risk to your baby.”

There has been a new discussion in the British Medical Journal (BMJ), in which two experts say that avoiding alcohol altogether is the only advice that should be given to mums-to-be.

Retired paediatrician Mary Mather and

Do you feel like the whole family is constantly ill and as one illness goes, another one comes along? Try these natural methods to boost your family’s immune system.

doctoral research fellow in obstetric medicine at Guy’s and St. Thomas’ NHS Trust, Kate Wiles, say that guidelines are inconsistent and that many countries in the world advise that pregnant women do not drink at all. They say in the BMJ that drinking can lead to serious health problems including foetal alcohol syndrome, mental retardation, delayed development and behaviour problems. It can also cause low birth weight, which in turn can lead to other health problems in babies.

However, consultant and senior lecturer Patrick O’Brien at University College London, says that while there is no guarantee that a lower limit is safe, there is also no evidence that drinking small amounts of alcohol after the first 12 weeks of pregnancy is harmful to babies.

8 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Get enough sleep Sounds obvious but the body repairs itself while we sleep. So make sure kids get plenty of rest when they are ill.

No smoke Passive smoking can make cough, asthma and chest infections worse.

It makes kids prone to bronchitis and pneumonia and they can also get middle ear infections. If you haven’t stopped yet, do it now!

Eat a rainbow Different coloured foods offer different vitamins and minerals, so try to make sure that you offer a rainbow of fruit and veg each day.

Supplement If you find it difficult to get the kids to eat enough fruit and veg, make sure they get a good vitamin supplement that is appropriate to their age. Also consider a pro-biotic, as a liquid or in yoghurt.

Get some sun The sun’s rays cause our bodies to make vitamin D, so get them out as much as possible. Even if the sun’s weak, it’s working!

Foods that boost the system Certain foods are proven to help with immunity. Garlic is an antimicrobial product and some mushrooms like shiitake and maitake can give us a boost too.

Ginseng is also good for fighting infections and Echinacea can help protect from colds.

Clubs & Classes

CLUBS & CLASSES CLASSIFIEDS Baby Signing, South Manchester The Babysign Teacher provides the most successful classes to teach your baby to sign. We run short courses and taster sessions at various venues in the South Manchester area. For details, visit our website: www.thebabysignteacher.co.uk, email: carolyn@thebabysignteacher.co.uk or call Carolyn on: 07528 262142.

Little Monkeys Club, Marple Bridge Increase your child’s confidence, co-ordination and fitness through a fun variety of climbing equipment, soft play, shapes, music and movement (including badge scheme) for children walking to 5 years. Tuesday mornings at Brabyns Recreation Centre, Marple Bridge. Call Karen 07986 182884 or visit www.karenbrook.co.uk/little-monkeys Musical Monkeys Musical entertainment and more for pre-school children aged 1+. First class free, and younger siblings under one welcome free of charge too! Classes in Sale & Timperley and coming soon to Altrincham and Lymm. 0161 976 5176 / www.musical-monkeys.co.uk

Puddle Ducks A wonderful swimming programme delivering nurturing, fun classes to over 13,000 babies, children and mummies across the UK every week.

Babies and children can join our swimming classes at any age from birth, developing into confident swimmers without even realising they’re learning to swim. By engaging each child’s abilities and natural affinity with water, Puddle Ducks offer simple steps to a lifetime love of swimming. Every child is different: our fantastic teachers adapt each activity to suit your child, nurturing water confidence and enjoyment.

Mums to be can also keep fit, relax and unwind by joining our Aqua Natal classes. Call 0161 883 0222 (Manchester, Stockport and Oldham) or 01257 262622 (East Lancashire). www.puddleducks.com Impact Tuition Ofsted registered independent tuition Centre run by qualified, friendly teachers 5-16, 11+, GCSE. Specialist Dyslexia Centre. 0161 747 1819 / www.impacttuitionurmston.co.uk

Striving Towards Sport!

At Enjoy-a-Ball the Play Ball groups have been showing so much promise!

The Play Ball level (year 1) works on the children’s skills to take them into sport in a fun and creative way.

Sam from Enjoy-a-Ball says: ‘The children’s skills have gone from strength to strength and the feedback from parents has been wonderful! Each week we cover a different sport to give them a taster of each one such as handball, dodge ball and volleyball. The most important thing is we are all having so much fun whilst doing it!’

If you’d like your child to give Enjoy-a-Ball a try, you can book them into a class at www.enjoy-a-ball.com or for more information call Sam 07973 886783 or email Caroline at southmanchester@enjoy-a-ball.com

Advertise in Families Manchester Call Jayne on: 01625 801801 or email advertising@ familiesmanchester.co.uk

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 9

Christmas shopping Header Help the local economy on Small Business Saturday

Will you support your local small businesses this December?

Why not pledge to purchase your Christmas shopping within the Greater

Manchester area this year, and help your local economy at the same time!

What better time to start than Small Business Saturday, which this year will be on 5 December.

Small Business Saturday UK is a grassroots, non-commercial campaign, which highlights small business success and encourages consumers to ‘shop local’ and support small businesses in their communities.

To see how you can get involved or for details of businesses close to you which are taking part go to

Shopping directory Bean & Brush Art Cafe Hayfield Street, Sale M33 7XW 0161 973 2140 / www.beanandbrush.co.uk Brooklyn Pottery Shaw Heath, Stockport, SK2 6QS 0161 480 5139 / www.brooklynpottery.co.uk Brookside Pottery, Poynton Make your own gift!

London Road North, Stockport, SK12 1BY 07961 838753 / www.brooksidepottery.com Button Nose Bramhall Lane South, Bramhall, SK7 1AF Designer clothing for children from birth to 14.

0161 440 7667 / www.buttonnose.co.uk CatFish Kids Funky clothes, gifts and toys for the coolest kids.

Lane End Road, Burnage M19 1TU 0161 637 2257 / www.catfishkids.co.uk Emily’s Paint A Pot, Preston Paint pots, fabric and glass, or get creative in a myriad of other ways! 355 Bury Old Road, Prestwich M25 1PY 0161 222 7820 / www.emilyspaintapot.com Everything Dinosaur The name says it all. Dinosaur models, toys, prehistoric animal themed soft toys, clothing and games.

From museum quality, scale replicas to pocket money dinosaur gifts. Based in Middlewich.

01606 841068 / www.everythingdinosaur.com DaisyZoo.com Online store but based in Knutsford. Great organic, quality baby gifts and toys.

01565 650 433 / www.daisyzoo.com Giddy Goat Toys Traditional toy shop and online store.

Albert Hill Street, Didsbury M20 6RF 0161 445 1097 / www.giddygoattoys.co.uk Green Child Of Mine Online store based in Bolton. A fabulous selection of baby, nursery, and kids products.

01204 653327 / www.greenchildofmine.com Hamleys The Trafford Centre, Manchester M17 8AA 0371 704 1977 / www.hamleys.com Hobbycraft Altrincham Retail Park WA14 5NQ / 0845 051 6580 Round Hill Way, Bolton BL1 2SL / 0845 051 6531 The Peel Centre, Stockport SK1 2HH / 0845 051 6530 Alban Retail Park, Warrington WA2 8TP / 0845 051 6541 www.hobbycraft.co.uk

John Lewis Wilmslow Road, Cheadle SK8 3BZ or Trafford Centre 0161 491 4914 (Cheadle) or 0161 491 4040 (Trafford) / www.johnlewis.com Kids Exchange Pre-loved but excellent quality clothing, toys and equipment.

Manchester Road, Wilmslow SK91BG 01625 537664 / www.kids-exchange.co.uk Kooky Kids Online store but based in Macclesfield. Great toys for boys and girls of all ages. www.kooky-kids.co.uk Pixie Childrenswear Ashley Road, Hale WA15 9SF Toys, gifts and fashion.

0161 927 9259 / www.pixiechildrenswear.com Pottery Corner Beech Rd, Manchester M21 9EL 0161 882 0010 / www.potsareforpainting.co.uk Simply Books Moss Lane, Bramhall SK7 1BD 0161 439 1436 / www.simplybooks.info Smyths Toys Superstore Middlebrook Retail Park, Bolton BL6 6JA / 01204 469000 Halls Mill Retail Park, Bury BL9 7AZ / 0161 705 2414 www.smythstoys.com Toymaster Hollins Ln, Marple, SK6 6AW 0161 427 2099 / www.toymaster.co.uk ToysRUs Central Retail Park, Manchester M4 6DJ / 0161 272 6515 Trinity Retail Park, Bolton BL2 1HY / 01204 398877 Peel Centre Trading Park, Stockport SK1 2HH / 0161 474 7700 Europa Boulevard 610, Warrington WA5 7TT / 01925 418111 www.toysrus.co.uk The Entertainer The Rock, Bury, BL9 0ND / 0844 693 1455 Warren Street, Stockport SK1 1UD / 0844 693 1458 George Street, Altrincham WA14 1RJ Golden Square, Warrington WA1 1QB / 0844 693 1456 www.thetoyshop.com Tip Toes Edenfield Road, Rochdale OL12 7RB 01706 750322 / www.facebook.com/TipToesUK Traditional Toys The Last Drop Village, Bromley Cross, Bolton BL7 9PZ 01204 593 528 / www.traditionaltoysbolton.co.uk

10 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Making Christmas Magical with Giddy Goat Toys Christmas should be a special time of magic and wonder for all children. As the excitement builds towards the big day, there are lots of small things you can do to create a little extra magic and sparkle for your family during the countdown to Christmas.

Sitting down together to write your letters to Father Christmas is a good way to start the festivities; you can do this ahead of time and it’s a good opportunity for everyone to practice their neatest handwriting and maybe even draw some nice pictures for Mrs Claus to stick on her fridge!

You can post your letters to Father Christmas in the North Pole Post-box located in Giddy Goat Toys!

Last year we discovered the magical and mischievous Elf on the Shelf. This is a really fun tradition which started in America and is becoming really popular here in the UK. A small, but very cheeky Elf comes to stay with you for the whole of December; each night the Elf pops back to the North Pole to tell Father Christmas all about what your children have been up to, and importantly - if they’ve been naughty or nice.

Before morning the Elf returns and finds itself in all manner of mischievous situations (see Pinterest for Elf inspiration). It’s a lovely, fun, imaginative, magical thing to do and it encourages good behaviour – what’s not to like?

Of course every good Elf needs a magical point of entry – an Elf Door provides the ideal solution, complete with some magical fairy dust, all it needs is a little bit of imagination and a sprinkling of Christmas magic to open up the portal between your home and the North Pole. You can let your imagination run wild, get the kids involved in making little cards, gifts, cookies and cakes to tempt the Elves out at night, or take back to Father Christmas for a little treat.

No December is complete without an advent calendar to open each morning. Start the Christmas countdown in style with one of the Lego or Playmobil advent calendars available at Giddy Goat Toys; choose from the incredibly popular Lego City, Lego Friends and Lego Star Wars calendars, or the Playmobil Unicorn Fairyland, Dragons Treasure Battle, Fire Rescue Operation, and the wonderfully festive Christmas Room and Santa’s Workshop.

There’s always lots going on at Giddy Goat Toys, and the run up to Christmas is no exception.

With a hand-picked range of traditional wooden toys, quirky games and crafts to choose from, as well as Christmas story books and activity books to get everyone in the Christmas spirit. Spread a little Giddy Goat magic under your tree this Christmas.

0161 445 1097 / www.giddygoattoys.co.uk

Christmas shopping Header Gift & Craft Fairs

Sat 14 Nov

Middleton Town Centre Middleton Christmas Lights Switch On 12 – 6.30pm. Light switch on 5.45pm / Free entry Festive stalls, family fun fair, community stage, live music, fireworks display, giant snow globe and a variety of food including complimentary mulled wine and mince pies, children’s giveaways, children’s entertainer, Punch & Judy, balloon making, Merlin the Magician, Iggle Piggle, Santa and Santa’ Grotto.

0161 653 4990 / www.rochdaleonline.co.uk

Sat 14 Nov – Mon 21 Dec Sat 7 & Sun 8 and Sat 14 & Sun 15 Nov

Tatton Park, Knutsford Christmas Gift Fair 10.30am – 5pm / Free entry (normal admission applies) An early chance to look for those special Christmas gifts for all the family and ideas for presents not usually found in High Street shops.

01530 834056 / www.countrywide-events.co.uk

Sun 8 Nov

Let’s Party, Bury Little Christmas Market 11am – 4pm / Free entry. Unique gifts, crafts and fashion. Children’s Christmas card making and arts and crafts corner. Tea room will be open for lunch, or pre book for Christmas Afternoon tea. Santa’s Elf will be helping out and available for photos.

0161 797111 / www.letspartyvenue.co.uk

Mon 9 Nov

True Serenity, Centre for Holistic Excellence, Castleton OL11 2PG Christmas Fayre 11am – 4pm. A wonderful shopping & pampering experience with lots of exclusive Christmas offers.

Christmas arts and crafts & circus skills for children.

01706 350750 / www.rochdaleonline.co.uk

Mon 9 & Tues 10 Nov

Arley Hall And Gardens Christmas Shopping Spectacular Mon: Champagne Reception 6–10pm Tues: 9.30am–5pm. Over 70 hand-picked stalls from all corners of the country offering delicious food and stunning gifts and treats for all, from stocking fillers to that extra special present. Special Men’s Den this year to help you find the perfect gift for the man in your life!

0161 6100168 / www.arleyhallshoppingspectacular.co.uk

Manchester Christmas Markets Over 300 stalls offering gifts, crafts, jewellery, clothes, toys and an array of food and drink from all over Europe. A truly international event with a uniquely Mancunian flavour.

Trail map available on website, but venues include Albert Square, M2 5RT Brazennose Street, M2 5AS St Ann’s Square, M2 7JB Exchange Street, M2 7DH King Street, M2 4LQ New Cathedral Street, M1 1AD Exchange Square, M3 1BD Market Street, M1 1PL Corn Exchange, M4 3TR Cathedral Gardens, M4 3BG www.visitmanchester.com/Christmas

Sun 15 Nov

Springhill Hospice OL16 4PZ Christmas Fair 10 – 3pm / Free entry. Over 40 stalls and seasonal treats for everyone. Entry fee: Free 01706 641790 / www.springhill.org.uk

Sun 15 Nov

St Ann’s Hospice, Little Hulton M28 0FE Christmas Fair 12 – 3pm / £1 entry (accompanied children free) Toys, gifts, entertainment, refreshments as well as the famous M&S stall! A chance to see Santa too! www.sah.org.uk

Thurs 19 Nov – Sun 20 Dec

Chester Town Hall Square, Library Square, St Werburgh Street and other central locations.

Chester Christmas Market 10am – 6pm (8pm on Thurs, 7pm on Frid & Sat). Over 70 traditional wooden chalets wrapped around a 40ft sparkling Christmas tree. Quality giftware, clothing and food and drink. Great kids’ entertainment. www.christmasinchester.com

Thurs 12 Nov

Sun 22 Nov

Fri 13 Nov

Fri 27 – Sun 29 Nov

Hollingworth Lake Visitor Centre Craft Fair and Have-a-go 11.30am – 3.30pm / Free entry Stalls, book sale and have a go Gelatine printing.

01706 373421 / www.rochdaleonline.co.uk St. George’s Church, Stockport Moonlight Market Craft Fair 3pm – 9pm 0161 440 0408 / www.stgeorgestockport.org.uk

Fri 13 – Sun 15 Nov

Lowry Outlet, Salford Enchanted Christmas Market All the fun and magic and sparkle of the festive season on the outdoor plaza. Carousel, Giant snowglobe, Frozen experience and live music. www.lowryoutlet.co.uk

Littleborough Coach House Christmas Fair 1 – 4pm / Free entry. Locally produced crafts and gifts ideal for Christmas presents.

01706 378481 / www.rochdaleonline.co.uk Capesthorne Hall Christmas at Capesthorne Fri 5 – 9pm, Sat/Sun 12 – 5pm. Entrance fee applies.

Take a tour around this stately home with live musical entertainment and a special visit from Santa. Then head out to the marquee for the Craft and Gift fair.

01625 861221 / www.capesthorne.com

Fri 27 – Sun 29 Nov

Tatton Park, Knutsford Tatton’s Christmas Gift Fair Fri: 12 – 7.30pm, Sat & Sun: 11am – 4.30pm Innovative and unusual present ideas for friends and family. Free admission to Fair – normal park entry applies.

01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sat 28 Nov

Dialstone Lane Methodist Church, Stockport Christmas Craft & Gift Fair 10am – 2pm. With entertainment and a special appearances from Father Christmas.

0161 456 1454 / www.dialstonelanemethodistchurch.co.uk

Sat 28 Nov

Stockport Town Hall Jewellery & Craft fair 10am – 3pm, free entry An array of handcrafted toys, jewellery and gifts.

0161 474 3451 / www.stockport.gov.uk/townhall

Sat 28 Nov

Victoria Square, Walkden Town Centre Craft Fair 10am – 6pm. Festive fun, including a giant gift & craft fair, Santa’s Grotto, music, movies, sports, mulled wine, children’s rides and crafts. Christmas lights switch on 6pm. www.walkdentowncentre.co.uk

Sat 28 Nov

Seashell Trust, Cheadle Hulme SK8 6RQ Christmas Fair 10am – 1pm / Free entry. 100s of brand new toys at bargain prices! Festive refreshments also on offer. www.seashelltrust.org.uk

Sat 28 Nov

Bolton Hospice Christmas Fair 10am – 2pm. Festive fun for all the family, including a chance to meet Santa.

01204 663050 / www.boltonhospice.org.uk

Sat 28 & Sun 29 Nov

Bramhall Village Square Light Up Bramhall 2015 Christmas market stalls in the Village Square, Santa’s Grotto and Nativity Trail, Entertainment stage, Lantern parade and Santa’s Sleigh Float. Carol Service on Sunday. www.bramhallvillagesquare.co.uk

Sun 29 Nov

Heald Green Village Hall, SK8 3JL St Ann’s Hospice Christmas Fair 12 – 3pm / £1 entrance, accompanied children free An afternoon of family fun, Christmas gifts, Children’s toys, Santa, Entertainment, Refreshments and more. www.sah.org.uk

Sun 29 Nov

Little Lever Village Christmas Market 11am – 3pm. Stalls, face painting and Santa. www.facebook.com/llcommunityevents

Sun 29 Nov

Hollingworth Lake Visitor Centre Craft Fair / Free entry 11.30am – 3.30pm 15 stalls, cafe and play area.

01706 373 421 / www.rochdaleonline.co.uk

Wed 2 Dec

Neil Cliffe Centre, Wythenshawe M23 9LT St Ann’s Christmas Fair 12 – 3pm / Free entry. Come along for some festive fun: gifts, mince pies and refreshments. www.sah.org.uk

Sat 5 Dec

St George’s Hall, Rochdale OL11 4ED Cats Protection Christmas Fair 11am / Entry 50p. Arts and crafts, bric-a-brac, books, cakes, tombola and refreshments.

07917 003 162 / www.rochdaleonline.co.uk

Sat 5 Dec

The Wellbeing Farm, Bolton Christmas Fair and Handmade Market 10.30am – 3.30pm / £1 entry (under 5s free) Carol singing, Christmas food, drink and crafts, Christmas cookery demonstrations.

01204 852113 / www.thewellbeingfarm.co.uk

Sun 6 Dec

Alkrington Community Centre Alkrington Village Christmas Craft Fair 11am – 3pm / Free entry. 25 food and craft stalls, unusual gifts, bespoke arts and crafts and gorgeous baked goods and confectionary. Café selling hot food and drinks, face painting for the kids and a big raffle!

Proceeds to The British Heart Foundation. Limited parking. Please can we ask that if you live local to the venue and you are able, to walk to the fair as parking is limited. 07583 384 955 / www.rochdaleonline.co.uk

Sat 12 Dec

St Thomas and St John’s Church, Lostock Christmas Fayre 11am – 1pm 01204 654016 / www.lostockchurch.org.uk

Sun 14 Dec

The Last Drop Village, Bolton Christmas Markets 10am / Free entry. Funfair, entertainment, festive food and drinks, handmade craft fair, Christmas markets throughout the village, visits from Santa and Peppa Pig.

Sun 29 Nov

Heaton Moor Sports Club SK4 2NF Francis House Christmas Fair 10am – 4pm. A variety of stalls offering Christmas crafts and gifts for all the family.

0161 443 2200 / www.francishouse.org.uk

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 11

Christmas shopping Families Gift Guide Here are a few ideas for every member of the family to kick start the Christmas Gift thinking process....

For Babies

For Mums Glass Christmas Angel Bauble, £10 My 1st Years (www.my1styears.com) With a beautiful angel inside, this glass bauble is a great gift for baby’s first Christmas. Engraved with a message over three lines with up to 20 characters on each line.

Pirate Ship Personalised illuminated Canvas, from £55.95 Illuminated Canvas (www.illuminatedcanvas.co.uk) A picture for your baby’s nursery wall but with a twist; not only can you have your child’s name on the canvas but it lights up, showing an illuminated window in the ship and on the masts.

Water Whirly Bath Toy £11.99 Giddy Goat Toys (www.giddygoattoys.co.uk) Four individual water toys that fit together for twirling, spinning water fun. Bright and colourful and featuring a smiley fish and a smiley octopus which clip together with two spinning sections.

Fill with water and watch what happens. A great toy which is sure to make bath time fun time. Recommended from 12 months.

Christmas Pudding Leggings, £11 Blade and Rose (www.bladeandrose.co.uk) How cute will your baby look crawling around on Christmas Day in these seasonal striped leggings with their cheeky Christmas pudding on the tush.

They’re made from soft fabric with a thick waistband for comfort and you can add matching socks, a bandana bib and a hat.

For Children My Elf Door, £24.99 Giddy Goat Toys (www.giddygoattoys.co.uk) Your Magic Door gives your elf visitors their very own entry point into your home. All they require is somewhere quiet and secret so they can come and go as they please, sprinkling love and magic once everyone is fast asleep. An inspirational gift to unlock your imagination.

Luxury Mummy Spa Kit, £39.99 Love Boo (www.loveboo.com) The ultimate home pampering kit. With three products inside – Bosom Buddy, Body Wash and Miracle Oil, they will leave skin glowing and firmed and they can help prevent stretch marks. They are safe for use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Mini Indoor Herb Garden, £24.95 Gifts Direct (www.giftsdirect.com) With the increase in popularity of gardening and cookery programmes on the television, this sweet little garden will help you create your very own tiny allotment. It comes with three tiny plant pots with drainage holes that fit neatly in the fence. Inside the shed are tiny snippers, soil pellets and a packet of three kinds of seeds; coriander, basil and oregano. The shed can be used to store more seeds for next time.

Bespoke Chocolate Keepsake, from £9.99 Chocolates Etc (www.chocolatesetc.co.uk) Bespoke chocolate gifts beautifully presented in individually sourced glass or metal containers, so even when the chocolates are long gone, mum will be left with a beautiful keepsake.

Handbag Organiser £12.99 Periea (www.periea.com) So you have more than one handbag and when you want to swap quickly from one to the other, it’s such a chore swapping over all the things you just can’t do without. But no more! This handy organiser has 11 pockets to keep everything in just the right place and it’s black, so will suit the inside of any bag. There’s even a clip for your keys and it’s machine washable.

For Dads Haig Club Scotch Whisky, £44.95 Haig (www.haigclub.com) If he fancies himself as a David Beckham type, this will be his tipple of choice. From Scotland’s oldest whisky distillery, this is smooth and pleasing on the palate and looks great too.

Bon Bon Bear, £30 Hamleys (www.hamleys.com) Every child needs a teddy as a best friend, so treat your little one to a bear from the World’s most famous toy shop. Bon Bon has glossy cream fur, a hand-embroidered face and the Hameys name embroidered on the sole of one foot. For Christmas, he also sports a fetching red bow tie.

Leather And Brass Book Cover iPad Case, £33.95 Zazzle (www.zazzle.co.uk) If you love old leather bound books and the look of PaperBlanks notebooks, this iPad case is great. In several different designs these are custom made with premium book cloth and finished with a glossy laminate. They hold the iPad securely and have rubberized edges so it doesn’t slip.

Constructive Eating Cutlery Set, £14 The Great Gift Company (www.thegreatgiftcompany.co.uk) Fussy eater? You’ll soon find your child likes to eat when you encourage them to play with their food! There’s a fork shaped like – of course – a forklift, a spoon that’s a front-loader truck and then there’s a bulldozer to help your child push food onto the fork or spoon. Just add truck noises!

A Gentleman’s Guide to Beard and Moustache Management, by Chris Martin, £5.99 Amazon (www.amazon.co.uk) If he’s gone all trendy Hoxton Man with a bushy beard and tufty moustache, make sure he knows how to groom with this tongue-in-cheek book. It does actually have some great tips on trimming, waxing and maintaining facial fuzz as well as a guide to famous hair celebrities from Marx to Des Lynam!

Frozen’s Olaf Money Bank, £21.75 The Rustic Rabbit (www.therusticrabbit.co.uk) The fans of Disney’s Frozen will love being able to save their pennies in this fabulous Olaf Money Bank.

Dimensions: 9.8cm x 12.8cm x 25cm, for ages 3+

12 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Dad Dictionary Definition Personalised Mug, £9.99 The Gift Experience (www.thegiftexperience.co.uk) Define your dad with this Personalised Dictionary Definition Mug, contains both the real definition and in addition contains the additional roles a Dad may take on including, Taxi Driver, Bank Manager, Handy Man and general dogsbody.

Where’s Santa?

Meet Father Christmas at Hamleys intu Trafford Centre!

21 November – 24 December

ALL ABOARD THE SANTA EXPRESS All-In-One Garden Centre, Knutsford Santa Express and Santa’s Grotto Every weekend from Sat 28 Nov until Sun 21 Dec 11am – 4pm. £6.99 for a ride on the miniature train, a chat with Santa, and a gift. Donkey rides also available.

01565 722567 / www.allinone.co.uk Brookside Miniature Railway, Poynton Santa Specials Ride on the miniature railway to see Santa in his grotto.

See “Where’s Santa?” for dates and prices.

01625 872919 / www.klondyke.co.uk/ brookside-garden-centre-poynton

Join Father Christmas and his lovable elves at The Finest Toy Shop in the World! for fun, magic and theatre at this very special time of year.

I Met Father Christmas at Hamleys! is an extra special experience where children will enjoy up to 1 hour with Father Christmas, take part in seasonal activities, enjoy delicious snacks and receive a special gift bag from Father Christmas to take home.

Each session is 1 hour long, sessions available on select dates.

• Breakfast: 10am – 11am • Pre-School Brunch: 12pm – 1pm • Brunch: 12pm – 1pm • Lunch: 2pm – 3pm • Tea: 4pm – 5pm During this group session each little guest will hear magical stories of Christmas, sing festive songs, enjoy Christmas games, write their own Christmas wish list and enjoy special time with Father Christmas himself all surrounded by the finest toys in the world! Book Online now www.hamleys.com/explore

Churnet Valley Railway Santa and Steams Specials – A Victorian Christmas Celebration Wed 9 & Wed 16 Dec. Weekends from Sat 5 – Sun 20 Dec. Tues 22 – Thurs 24 Dec. Quality gifts for every child, mince pie and sherry for adults. Entertainment, traditional decorations and attractions at Cheddleton and Kingsley & Froghall Stations.Special offer for Sat 5, Sun 6 & Wed 9 Dec: youngest child free with every two adults. Booking essential 01538 758491 / www.churnet-valley-railway.co.uk East Lancashire Railway, Bury Santa Specials Every weekend from Sat 28 Nov – Sun 20 Dec and daily from Mon 21Dec – Thurs 24 Dec. Meet the jolly man and his host of happy elves as they hand out presents for the kids and a mince pie and festive drink for the adults. Beautiful decorations on both the carriages and in the station, enjoy Christmas carols and live brass bands. Booking essential. 0161 764 7790 / www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Kirklees Light Railway

Foxfield Railway, Stoke on Trent Santa Specials Weekends from Sat 28 Nov – Sun 20 Dec, Wed 23 & Thurs 24 Dec. Wind through the scenic Staffordshire countryside for a 5½ mile round festive train ride!

Chocolate, a drink and a quality present from Santa for children, mince pie and sherry for adults.

Booking essential. Special offer for Sat 29 & Sun 30 Nov: one child free with every 2 adults.

01782 396210 / www.foxfieldrailway.co.uk Kirklees Light Railway Santa Specials Weekends from Sat 28Nov – Sun 20 Dec, Tues 22 – Wed 23 Dec, Fri 4, 14 & 18 Dec – Twilight Specials Ride the train to Shelley Station to see Santa in his grotto and get a gift. Mince pie and festive tipple for adults, biscuit and juice for kids while waiting in the heated marque. 01484 865727 / www.kirkleeslightrailway.com Ribble Steam Railway, Preston Santa Specials Weekends from Sat 5 – Sun 20 Dec, Mon 21 Dec Light refreshments and gifts for the children. Booking essential. 01772 253731 / www.ribblesteam.org.uk

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 13

Where’s Santa?

Santa can be spotted all over Greater Manchester!

Don’t miss your opportunity to get up close and personal with the big man himself...

All Souls, Bolton Father Christmas Mon 21 Dec / 1.15 – 2.45pm / Grotto £4 including gift Meet Sven! Live Reindeer and Santa’s Grotto. Learn about the history of Christmas traditions. Advance booking advised. www.allsoulsbolton.org.uk Alton Towers Elves’ Emporium Sat 12 & Sun 13 Dec, Fri 18 – Wed 23 Dec. Meet Santa and his Elves as they prepare for their busiest time of year! Selected theme park rides and attractions open including CBeebies Land, Sonic Spinball, Cloud Cuckoo Land, Mutiny Bay and SeaLife. 20% discount if booking before 9 November. Under 2s go free. www.altontowers.com Anderton Boat Lift, Northwich Santa Cruise Weekends from Sat 5 – Sun 20 Dec and from Mon 21– Thurs 24 Dec. 10am – 3pm, Booking essential A 50 minute trip along the River Weaver, including stories andn activities with Mr & Mrs Claus. As well as a gift for every child. 01606 786777 / www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/anderton-boat-lift Arndale Centre, Manchester Thurs 19 Nov – Thurs 24 Dec. £4.50 (off-peak) or £5.50 (peak) per child (plus booking fee) – includes a gift.

Pre-booking advised. Santa will be waiting to greet you in his towering Christmas tree star grotto in Halle Square. www.manchesterarndale.com Bents Garden Centre, Warrington Santa’s Tea Parties Weekdays Tues 1 – Fri 18 Dec, Mon 21 & Wed 23 Dec Age 3 – 10 / £15.95 (includes gift), early booking essential. Join Santa for a meal with balloons and party games. 01942 266300 / www.bents.co.uk Bolton Hospice Christmas Fair Sat 28 Nov. 10am – 2pm. Festive fun for all the family, including a chance to meet Santa.

01204 663050 / www.boltonhospice.org.uk Bramhall Village Square Light Up Bramhall 2015 Sat 28 & Sun 29 Nov. Christmas market stalls in the Village Square, Santa’s Grotto and Nativity Trail, Entertainment stage, Lantern parade and Santa’s Sleigh Float. Carol Service on Sunday. www.bramhallvillagesquare.co.uk Brookside Garden Centre, Poynton Santa’s Grotto Every weekend from Sat 21 Nov – Sun 20 Dec 11am – 4pm. Also every Wed & Thurs in Dec, and Fri 18 Dec 2 – 6.30pm, Mon 21 – Wed 23 Dec 11am – 6.30pm, Thurs 24 Dec 11am – 3pm. Last train half an hour before the Grotto closes. £8 per child (£4 for under 2’s), includes a ride to the Grotto on the miniature Santa Special railway and a gift. £2 for accompanying adults. £6.50 for Grotto visit only, £1.80 for train ride only. 01625 872919 / www.klondyke.co.uk/brookside-garden-centre-poynton Cheshire Reindeer Lodge & Christmas Tree Farm, Cheshire Oaks Santa’s Grotto& Reindeer Lodge Weekends from Sat 28 Nov – Sun 20 Dec, Mon 21 – Thurs 24 Dec. Adult £6.95, Child 7.95 (incl gift), Booking essential. Meet Santa and his Elves, Feed the Reindeer, get your photos taken in a traditional sleighs, have a donkey ride, look through the huge range of Christmas Trees and grab yourself a festive coffee or hot chocolate.

01244 646 045 / www.cheshirereindeer.co.uk

Chester Zoo Father Christmas Story Time Mon 16 Nov / 11am, 2.15pm or 3pm / Under 7s / £6.99 (in addition to zoo admission), booking essential. Father Christmas will be reading stories in the beautiful Oakfield House, helping little ones make a gift for local wildlife, plus every child will get a gift to take home. The experience lasts about 20 minutes.

Lantern Magic Fri 4 – Sun 6 Dec, Fri 11 – Sun 13Dec, Fri 18 – Wed 23 Dec Keep a look out and give a Christmassy wave to Santa at this unforgettable, magical night time journey through the zoo. Varying price options depending on requirements – see website. Pre-booking essential.

01244 380280 /www.chesterzoo.org

Heald Green Village Hall, SK8 3JL St Ann’s Hospice Christmas Fair Sun 29 Nov. 12 – 3pm, £1 entrance, accompanied children free. An afternoon of family fun, shopping and a chance to see Santa. www.sah.org.uk

The Chestnut Centre, Chapel-en-le-Frith Christmas Grotto Every weekend from Sat 5 Dec – Sun 20 Dec, Daily from Mon 21 – Thurs 24 Dec. Come and meet Father Christmas and his animal helpers in the Grotto. Each child receives a gift and can explore the park, meeting some of Santa’s helpers along the way. Booking essential 01298 814099 / www.chestnutcentre.co.uk

Little Lever Village Christmas Market Sun 29 Nov. 11am – 3pm. Stalls, face painting and Santa. www.facebook.com/llcommunityevents

Chill Factore, Trafford Quays Santa’s Snow Kingdom Weekends from Sat 7 – Sun 29 Nov, Daily from Tues 1 – Thurs 24 Dec. 10am – 7.30pm (last session 7pm) Revel in the magic that is Santa’s Snow Kingdom, surrounded by real snow, sparkling trees, glistening lights and chattering elves! Feel the crunch of the real snow below your feet and be stunned by the magnificent castle that is Santa’s home right up until Christmas Eve. Santa will be joined by special friend Peppa Pig at various intervals on Sat 14 & Sun 15 Nov and Sat 21 & Sun 22 Nov. 0843 596 22 33 / www.chillfactore.com Event City, Trafford Park Winter Wonderland Santa Meet and Greet Sat 12 Dec – Sun 3 Jan. Meet and greet Santa at this indoor winter wonderland of fun and entertainment.

Not a full grotto experience, but it will be an efficient meet and greet system. www.winterwonderlandmanchester.com Gulliver’s World, Warrington Breakfast with Santa Weekends from Sat 28 Nov – Sun 20 Dec, Wed 23 & Thurs 24 Dec. Includes a festive show and a gift Santa Send Off. Thurs 24 Dec. Special shows throughout the day to celebrate Santa’s time at Gulliver’s World before he makes his way around the world.

01925 444 888 / www.gulliversfun.co.uk Greater Manchester Fire Service Museum, Rochdale OL11 1DN Christmas Open Day Sat 6 Dec. 10am – 4pm / Free entry. Fire museum attractions on show, home-made refreshments and souvenirs plus a special visit from Santa.

01706 341 219 / www.manchesterfire.gov.uk/museum Hamleys, Trafford Centre Meet Father Christmas Sat 21 Nov – Thurs 24 Dec, 10am – 5pm (hour sessions). Join Father Christmas and his lovable elves in the party room for fun, magic and theatre at this very special time of year. Activities, delicious snacks and a special gift bag to take home.

Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch and Tea sessions available. www.hamleys.com/explore

14 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Let’s Party, Bury Tea with Santa Sun 20 Dec. 3 – 4.30pm. £12.99 (+ £2 for luxury gift) A magical Christmas tea party in the Winter Wonderland room, including food, drinks, treats, games, singing then a special visit and present from Santa. Limited places – booking and payment before 5 Dec essential.

0161 797111 / www.letspartyvenue.co.uk

National Waterways Museum, Ellesmere Port Santa Cruises Sat 12 & Sun 13 Dec, Sat 19 – Thurs 24 Dec 0151 355 5017 / www.canalrivertrust.org.uk Ordsall Hall, Salford Christmas Grotto Sun 13 & 20 Dec & Mon 21 Dec. 1 – 4pm / £4 Come and meet Father Christmas in his grotto and receive a gift. 0161 872 0251 / www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk Portland Basin Museum, Ashton under Lyne OL7 0QA Christmas Family Day Sun 6 Dec. 11am – 3pm, £3.50 to visit Father Christmas (includes gift) – limited places available. We bring the Christmas spirit to life with characters and activities for the whole family. Make a Christmas wreath and decorations from natural materials from £1.50.

0161 343 2878 / www.tameside.gov.uk Quarry Bank Mill, Styal A Victorian Christmas at the Mill Sat 5 & Sun 6 Dec, Sat 12 & Sun 13 Dec. 11am – 3pm, Free, normal admission applies. The Quarry Bank workers and apprentices have to finish their jobs before Christmas can begin. Can you help them get to the Christmas party? Meet Victorian characters and find out about customs from the past. You can also visit Father Christmas and tell him what is on your list.

End the day with carols by the tree and a mince pie.

Featuring illustrations by Catherine Jackman the artist behind An Apprentice Adventure. 01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry-bank Salford Museum & Art Gallery A Musical Christmas Celebration Sat 5 & Sun 6 Dec. 12 – 4pm / Free entry, Grotto £4 A weekend of Christmas celebrations as we begin the festivities including music, songs, crafts and a chance to meet Father Christmas. 0161 778 0800 / www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

St George’s Church, Stockport St George’s Christmas Tree Festival Wed 25 – Sun 29 Nov, various times (see website). Adults £2, Children free.

Father Christmas will be available to receive young visitors on Saturday afternoon. Musical performances, refreshments, a children’s grotto with Christmas craft, a Prayer Trail and many beautiful Christmas trees.

0161 440 0408 / www.stgeorgestockport.org.uk Stockley Farm Stocktots Wed 9 Dec, 10am – 12pm and 12.30 – 2.30pm £8.50 per child, booking essential. Take a festive tractor trailer ride down to the farm for a festive singalong. Make some Christmas Crafts, meet the animals and visit Father Christmas in the grotto to receive an early gift.

Christmas Elf Adventure Weekends from Sat 28 Nov – Sun 20 Dec Make decorations for the Christmas Tree, find the ingredients for Mother Christmas’ cookies and help the Elves tell the story of Christmas in the live nativity play complete with animals. Meet Father Christmas in his Grotto and receive a special gift. Brunch options available.

01565 777 323 / www.stockleyfarm.co.uk Tatton Park, Knutsford Christmas Lantern Parade & Father Christmas at the Farm Lantern Parade: Friday 27 Nov, 6pm. Meet Father Christmas: Weekends from Sat 28 Nov – Sun 20 Dec, 11am – 4pm, Adult £6, Child £6 (includes gift) Father Christmas arrives at Tatton with Prancer and Dancer as part of a festive lantern parade on 27 Nov. You can meet him at the Farm every weekend until Sun 20 Dec. Normal entry charges also apply.

01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk The Trafford Centre (Barton Square) Sat 7 Nov – Thurs 24 Dec. Child £6, Adult £3, Booking essential (booking fee applies). Join Santa and his merry helpers to get ready for the big day, and meet the big man himself. www.intu.co.uk/traffordcentre The Wellbeing Farm, Bolton Father Christmas Tea Party Thurs 3, 10 & 17 Dec. 4pm / Child £12.50, Adult £8, booking essential. Meet Santa and have afternoon tea with him, gingerbread man to decorate, crafts, a sing-a-long and a special gift.

01204 852113 / www.thewellbeingfarm.co.uk Touchstones, Rochdale Santa’s Grotto Sat 5 Dec, 10am – 5pm, £8 per child (includes gift) Meet the elves who will help you have some creative fun. Place a wish on the Christmas tree before meeting Santa in his magical Grotto. Limited spaces – booking essential. 01706 924492 / www.link4life.org Walkden Town Centre (Victoria Square) Walkden in a Winter Wonderland Sat 28 Nov. 10am – 8pm. Santa’s Grotto opens at 10am followed by a day full of fun. Christmas Lights switch on 6pm. www.walkdentowncentre.co.uk Woodford Park Garden Centre, Stockport 3D Cinema Grotto Experience Dates TBC at time of going to print. Child/Adult: £4.99, Family £15. Watch a 12 minute 3D ‘Rocket The Reindeer’ movie followed by a group visit to Santa himself, including a personal ‘Rocket The Reindeer’ book. Booking recommended.

Tea & Breakfast with Santa A fun, interactive experience, combining yummy food, with storytelling and a small gift from the special man himself! Booking essential. £11 per child.

0161 4390745 / www.notcutts.co.uk

Panto’s & family shows ‘Moominland Midwinter’ comes to life this Christmas!

The Moomins come to life on stage at Waterside Arts Centre this Christmas in a magical show starring Moomintroll, Little My, Too-Ticky, The Hemulen, Snork Maiden and Moominmamma!

Join us in Moominland from Tuesday 8 December – Saturday 2 January, where actors and beautiful full-sized puppets perform a brand new adaptation of one of Tove Jansson’s best-loved original stories, accompanied by a specially-written soundtrack.

Waking early from his winter hibernation, Moomintroll sets off to explore a snowy

Moominland, but the places which he knows so well in summer have all changed!

He finds Too-Ticky and her invisible shrews living in his summer bathing house and Little My wearing Moominmamma’s tray and tea-cosy! Following a run-in with the Lady of the Cold and a certain forgetful Squirrel, Moomintroll is forced to make some very grown-up decisions...

Heart-warming, humorous and spell-binding, this is a wonderful Christmas show for children aged 4+ and their families to enjoy together. Ticket prices: £16 / £14 / £12 / £10 + booking fee where applicable.

Call the Box Office to book today on 0161 912 5616, or you can book at www.watersideartscentre.co.uk.

Schools’ performances are also available.

Send your child a ‘Letter from Santa’ and support the NSPCC

To help share the magic of Christmas the NSPCC has teamed up with Santa to send personalised letters out to children.

Each of Santa’s letters come with beautiful illustrations and stories that are tailored to specific age groups. Parents can choose whether the letter is signed by ‘Santa’ or ‘Father Christmas’, and each letter comes with an age appropriate game for children to play.

You can now add a unique Post Script

The Snowman Tour – a music box of delights!

© Snowman Enterprises Ltd 2015

Make sure you don’t miss out on a unique and special event that’s suitable for all ages – a screening of the much-loved film, The Snowman, projected onto a large screen accompanied by a live, 26 piece professional orchestra.

The highlight for many is the evocative ‘Walking in the Air’, sung by a young

soloist. The show was number two in The Guardian’s “Top 10 things to do at Christmas” last year! And at the same time you can enjoy the world premiere of animation by Tom Scott to accompany Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker Suite”. Also featured in the concert is a Festive Guide to the Orchestra, where the instruments are presented in a fun and approachable way, offering the children the valuable experience of seeing - and hearing - the instruments individually. These include seldom seen instruments such as the celeste, cor anglais and bass clarinet.

Popular favourites tend to be the harp and the very naughty drummer!

With other Christmas crackers including a visit from a surprise conductor – it truly is a memorable experience for all the family.

Performances will be held on Saturday 5 December at Chester Cathedral, Tuesday 15 December at the Victoria Hall in Bolton and on Sunday 20 December at Parr Hall, Warrington.

message and you will also receive a complimentary pack with games, recipes and activities. Plus, there’s the option to choose to send a special poem written to celebrate Baby’s First Christmas – a keepsake to treasure for years to come.

For a suggested donation of only £5 parents can delight their own children whilst helping others who are less fortunate.

Request your Letter from Santa up until 22 December at www.nspcc.org.uk/santa

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 15

Panto’s & family shows A Christmas Carol Stockport Plaza Wed 4 – Sat 7 Nov. A brilliant, faithful musical adaptation of the classic story.

0161 477 7779 / www.stockportplaza.co.uk The Snow Dragon Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Sun 8 Nov. Story-telling, comedy and songs create a magical, mysterious world for everyone aged 3+. 0161 912 5616 / www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

The Falcon’s Malteser by Anthony Horowitz Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Mon 9 Nov. A hilarious family film noir pastiche following the adventures of the hopelessly inept private detective Tim Diamond and his sharp witted brother Nick. For ages 8+.

0161 912 5616 / www.watersideartscentre.co.uk Christmas is Coming!

The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester Fri 11 Nov. Christmas music and carols with favourites for all the family to sing with all proceeds going to St Ann’s Hospice.

0161 907 9000 / www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk The BFG Octagon Theatre, Bolton Fri 13 Nov – Sat 9 Jan. This swishwifflingly scrumdiddlyumptious wonderland will be filled with good dreams, greedy giants, snozzcumbers, frobscottles, and even the Queen of England!

Suitable for ages 5+.

01204 520661 / www.octagonbolton.co.uk

Our Teacher’s a Troll Z-arts, Hulme Sun 8 Nov. Two terrible twins with a talent for turmoil rule their school with terror and tyranny.

That is, until the arrival of a new head teacher with green scaly skin, sharp gnarly fangs, and a long spiky tail. Can the twins save the school from the child-eating troll? Can they get ‘Brussels sprouts in peanut butter’ taken off the school menu? And most importantly, can naughtiness prevail? For ages 7+ 0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org

Mother Goose Oldham Coliseum Sat 14 Nov – Sat 9 Jan Mother Goose A solid-gold family panto featuring all the trimmings of the Coliseum’s annual award-winning Christmas show including songs, slapstick and shouts of “it’s behind you!”.

0161 624 2829 / www.coliseum.org.uk

The Marvellous Imaginary Menagerie The Lowry, Salford Sun 15 Nov. Roll up; roll up, for the most magnifical, tremendible and fantasticulous experience in town! The caravan of curiosities and its crew of mysterious misfits have arrived to entertain, amuse and beguile you.

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com The Mermaid in the Gherkin Jar The Lowry, Salford Sun 15 Nov. This alluring piece of Physical Theatre tells the story of Christopher, a boy with a disability, struggling to find his place in the world. A charming, modern, awardwinning fairy tale.

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com You Can’t Stop The Beat Stockport Plaza Sat 21 Nov. An all singing, All dancing musical showcase by Kennedy’s School and College of Performing Arts.

0161 477 7779 / www.stockportplaza.co.uk Father Christmas Needs A Wee Parr Hall, Warrington Sat 21 Nov. A fabulously funny and brilliantly bouncy musical adaptation of Nicholas Allan’s much loved book.

01925 442345 / www.pyramidparrhall.com Manchester Glee presents Northern Soul Z-arts, Hulme Sat 21 Nov. From Manchester’s Oasis hot footing it to Newcastle’s Billy Elliot via the Blood Brothers of Liverpool, Manchester Glee will take you on a musical journey celebrating all things northern. With pop, indie and show tunes don’t miss out on this one night only extravaganza!

For all ages.

0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org Shiny The Lowry, Salford Sun 22 Nov. Join dancers from Turned On Its Head for their dazzling interactive show Shiny for ages 0 – 4 years. Watch and play as all that glitters unfolds before your very eyes.

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com The Nutcracker Stockport Plaza Sun 22 Nov. Presented by the Russian State Ballet And Opera House, Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet is an enchanting feast for the eyes.

0161 477 7779 / www.stockportplaza.co.uk Miracle on 34th Street Opera House, Manchester Mon 23 – Wed 24 Nov. One of the most popular films of all time comes to the stage, this heartwarming tale is one for all the family.

0844 871 3018 / www.atgtickets.com/manchester

16 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Romeo and Juliet The Palace Theatre, Manchester Thurs 26 – Sat 28 Nov. English National Ballet brings the world’s greatest love story to the stage.

0844 071 3019 / www.atgtickets.com/manchester

Sorry, Christmas is Cancelled...Katie Saves the Day! The Lowry, Salford Sun 29 Nov. An interactive seasonal treat! Help Father Christmas save Christmas for everyone.

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com The Wizard of Oz Horwich Leisure Centre, Bolton Sun 29 Nov – Thurs 3 Dec. Starring The Bill and Eastenders star Chris Simmons as The Scarecrow, CBBC’s Lucinda Rhodes as The Good Witch and introducing Rebecca Cummins as Dorothy. www.boltonleisure.com/horwich Christmas Carol Concert The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester Mon 30 Nov & Tues 1 Dec. Join in singing traditional carols for all the family with choirs from hospitals in Manchester and surrounding districts who will be joined by choirs from Primary Schools around the area. In aid of CLIC Sargent.

0161 907 9000 / www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk Cinderella Hyde Little Theatre Mon 30 Nov – Sat 5 Dec. By Jim Sperinck, Slapstick, chitchat, a touch of romance and a story everybody knows. Great entertainment for the whole family.

0844 8042634 / www.hydefestivaltheatre.org.uk

Panto’s & family shows Peter Pan Middleton Arena Wed 2 – Sun 27 Dec. The classic tale about the boy who refuses to grow up and his mischievous fairy sidekick Tinkerbell and new friends Wendy, John & Michael Darling. Will Peter & his gang defeat the evil Captain Hook and rid Neverland of evil? Stunning scenery and lots of special effects, amazing costumes, fantastic music, hilarious jokes with lots of audience participation.

0300 303 8633 / www.link4life.org Salford Arts Theatre Thurs 3 – Sun 6 Dec Barton Theatre Company. A show packed with comedy, fun and laughter and a real fairy tale romance brought to you by Barton Theatre Company.

0161 925 0111 / www.salfordartstheatre.com Snow Queen Z-arts, Hulme Thurs 3 – Sun 6 Dec, Thurs 10 – Sun 13 Dec. An experience that combines the everyday miracles of technology with puppetry and spirited human performances. For ages 7+.

0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org Inkheart Library Theatre, Manchester Fri 4 Dec – Sat 9 Jan. A funny, thrilling and action-packed UK premiere for families.

For ages 8 – 14. 0161 200 1500 / homemcr.org/theatre Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Stockport Plaza Fri 4 Dec – Sun 10 Jan. Mirror Mirror on the wall….where is the greatest panto of them all?!

Starring Dean Sullivan (Brookside) and Kim Hartman (‘Allo, ‘Allo). 0161 477 7779 / www.stockportplaza.co.uk Jingle Bell Sing-A-Long Victoria Hall, Bolton Sat 5 Dec. 6.45pm / £5. A festive concert for the whole family presented by Bolton Cancer Voices with special guests the Greater Manchester Police Band. Enjoy a wonderful night’s entertainment and sing along to an evocative mix of much-loved carols and ever popular Christmas tunes. Buy 10 tickets in a single transaction and get the 11th FREE! Ticket Secretary: 01204 883977 Cinderella The Village Hotel, Bury Sat 5 – Mon 28 Dec. Laugh, sing, boo and hiss at this traditional family panto.

0161 210 5180 / www.village-hotels.co.uk Cinderella Opera House, Manchester Sat 5 Dec – Sun 3 Jan. This classic rags to riches story sees Cinderella transformed from a put upon maid to her horrid Ugly Sisters, to the belle of the ball, with the help of her Fairy Godmother. Starring Torvill and Dean!

0844 871 3018 / www.atgtickets.com/manchester The Hallé: Christmas Family Concert The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester Sun 6 Dec. A fun-filled festive family concert, full of sing-alongs, jingle-alongs, seasonal surprises, orchestral antics and audience amazement.

0161 907 9000 / www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

The Nutcracker Parr Hall, Warrington Sun 13 Dec. Presented by Vienna Festival Ballet, this fabulous ballet is a Christmas treat like no other.

01925 442345 / www.pyramidparrhall.com

Moominland Midwinter Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Tues 8 Dec – Sat 2 Jan. The Moomins come to life on stage this Christmas in a show starring Moomintroll, Little My, Too-Ticky, The Hemulen, Snork Maiden and Moominmamma!

Heart-warming, humorous and spell-binding, this is a wonderful Christmas show for all the family to enjoy together. For ages 5+ 0161 912 5616 / www.watersideartscentre.co.uk Hetty Feather The Lowry, Salford Wed 9 Dec – Sun 10 Jan. The Olivier Award nominated West End smash hit tours the UK following its sold out run in London. Thrillingly brought to life with live music. songs and circus skills.

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com Giselle The Dancehouse, Manchester Thurs 10 – Sat 12 Dec. This romantic ballet tells the story of a peasant girl, who dies of a broken heart after discovering her lover is betrothed to another. The Wilis, a group of supernatural women who dance men to death, summon Giselle from her grave and target her lover for death.

0161 237 9753 / www.thedancehouse.co.uk Mr Popper’s Penguins The Lowry, Salford Thurs 10 Dec –Sun 10 Jan. With songs, puppets and a family of performing penguins, this is a delightful musical adaptation of Richard and Florence Atwater’s popular book. For ages 3+.

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com Aladdin The Curtain Theatre, Rochdale Thurs 10 – Sun 13 Dec. A fabulous script for a festive romp, full of Twanky-panky and genie-al fun for all the family.

01706 642008 / www.curtaintheatrerochdale.org.uk

Grimm’s Faerie Feast The Met, Bury Thurs 17 – Thurs 24 Dec. A feast of miraculous stories and surprising yet delectable food. Taste the words of the stories and smell the melody of the songs in this fantastic new version of the Grimm’s tales.

0161 761 2216 / www.themet.biz Warrington Male Voice Choir – Christmas Voices, Christmas Brass Parr Hall, Warrington Fri 18 & Sat 19 Dec. Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without the annual get together of the voices of Warrington Male Voice Choir, the brass sound of the world famous Leyland Band and audience participation in some traditional Christmas carols. With music to suit young and old, families and friends.

01925 442345 / www.pyramidparrhall.com

The Snowman Parr Hall, Warrington Sun 20 Dec. The timeless film will be shown on a large screen accompanied by a live, professional orchestra. Plus the world premiere of animation by Tom Scott to accompany Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker Suite” and a fun, Festive Guide to the Orchestra. A truly memorable experience for all ages, and a wonderful opportunity for the whole family to create lasting memories.

01925 442345 / www.pyramidparrhall.com Jack and the Beanstalk Heywood Civic Centre Sun 20 Dec – Sun 27 Dec. Join the ever-eccentric Dame Trot and the utterly evil Fleshcreep - on this laugh-a-minute, all-singing, all-dancing roller coaster ride through panto land! Featuring Anne Hegerty from ITV’s ‘The Chase’ as Flashcreep.

0300 303 8399 / www.link4life.org The Snowman The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester Tues 22 & Wed 23 Dec. A big screening of The Snowman, the animated classic by Raymond Briggs.

The film will be accompanied live by the Hallé performing Howard Blake’s beautiful score.

0161 907 9000 / www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk Snow Child The Lowry, Salford Tues 22 Dec – Sun 3 Jan. A wonderland of poignant, inventive storytelling to enchant children and families.

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Breaking The Ice Z-arts, Hulme Fri 18 & Sat 19 Dec. A show inspired by the true story of the unlikely friendship between a wild polar bear and a Husky. Be part of Team Polar Bear or Team Husky and watch as the animals learn to play together. Then get involved in the fun yourself by interacting with projected images that mirror your movements. For ages 2 – 5.

0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org Dick Whittington And His Cat The Dancehouse, Manchester Fri 18 Dec – Sun 3 Jan. It’s Christmas and the road to The Dancehouse is paved with Panto Gold!

0161 237 9753 / www.thedancehouse.co.uk

Dick Whittington Parr Hall, Warrington Sat 2 – Sun 6 Jan. A fantastic family pantomime which is sure to delight kids and adults alike.

01925 442345 / www.pyramidparrhall.com Babes In The Wood Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Fri 8 – Sun 10 Jan, Wed 13 – Sun 17 Jan A traditional family panto brought to you by Sale Nomads. Full of Goodies to cheer and Baddies to boo and hiss. 0161 912 5616 / www.watersideartscentre.co.uk Dick Whittington The Carver Theatre, Marple Fri 8 – Sat 16 Jan (excel Mon 11 Jan). From the sewers of London to the shores of Morocco...join our hero Dick Whittington in this traditional family pantomime.

0161 449 8363 / www.carvertheatre.co.uk

Sleeping Beauty Salford Arts Theatre Fri 11 Dec – Sun 3 Jan. Come along to boo and hiss at the evil fairy godmothers she tries to thwart the handsome prince. Presented by the Salford Theatre Company.

0161 925 0111 / www.salfordartstheatre.com

The Ballad of Rudy Royal Exchange Theatre – The Studio Sat 12 Dec – Sun 3 Jan. In this story Rudy doesn’t have a red nose; rather it’s his talent for exciting new music that sets him apart from all the other Reindeer.

Together with a magical Jazz Penguin he goes on an adventure that teaches him that life isn’t about following the herd. An original show featuring live jazz music for children ages 3+.

0161 833 9833 / www.royalexchange.co.uk

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 17

What’s on

These listings are for guidance only – please check before you go To include your upcoming event in our listings, email events@familiesmanchester.co.uk

Daily until 3 Jan

BONFIRE & FIREWORKS DISPLAYS Leverhulme Park Gates open 6pm. Bolton’s biggest and best FREE community display. Fun fair rides, traditional food favourites such as black peas, toffee apples and candy-floss. www.bolton.gov.uk

Thurs 5 Nov Bowden Club Gates open 6pm, Children’s display 7pm, Bonfire lit 7.20pm. Main display 8pm, Grand Finale 8.45pm. Also amusements, children’s rides, BBQ’s and Licensed Bars.

0161 928 1358 / www.bowdenclub.com Buile Hill Park 6 – 9.30pm, Free entry. Funfair from 6pm, Bonfire lit 7pm, Fireworks 7.30pm. Range of food outlets available. www.salford.gov.uk Chorlton Green Children’s firework display 6pm, Adults display 9pm www.manchester.gov.uk Heaton Park 5 – 9.30pm, Bonfire lit 7.30pm. Free entry.

Funfair, Bonfire and fireworks. www.manchester.gov.uk Platt Fields Park 5 – 9.30pm, Bonfire lit 7.30pm. Free entry.

Funfair, Bonfire and fireworks. www.manchester.gov.uk Trafford MV RFCC 6pm. Bonfire, firework display, food & drink and a BBQ in a great family friendly atmosphere. www.pitchero.com/clubs/traffordmv Woodford Community Centre Gates open 6pm, Bonfire lit 6.30pm, Children’s display 7pm, Main display 8.45pm. Food, drink and a fairground.

0161 439 1651 / www.woodfordcom.com Wythenshawe Park 5 – 9.30pm, Bonfire lit 7.30pm. Free entry. Funfair, Bonfire and fireworks. www.manchester.gov.uk

Fri 6 Nov Hyde United Football Club 5 – 9pm, Fireworks from 8pm. £1 entry. Funfair and fireworks.

Ramsbottom Cricket Club Gates open 6pm, Fireworks 7.45pm.

Children’s rides, hot food, licensed bar, live music. www.facebook.com/RamsbottomCricketClub Stalybridge Methodist Church Free bonfire and fireworks. Refreshments available.

Sat 7 Nov Abbotsfield Park Urmston Community Bonfire. Gates open 5.30pm, Bonfire 7pm, Fireworks 8pm. Safe family fun in aid of local good causes and charities. www.urmston.net Denton West Cricket Club Children’s fairgrounds rides, sparklers, glow products on sale, food and inside and outside bars. www.dentonwestcc.org Dunkinfield Cricket Club Hot refreshments and a licensed bar. Gates open 6.30pm. www.pitchero.com/clubs/dukinfieldcricketclub Hollywood Road Sports & Social Club, Bolton Gates open 7pm. BBQ, Toffee Stall and fully stocked bar.

Oulton Park, Tarporley A spectacular fireworks display after the Neil Howard Stage Rally, with plenty of off-track family-friendly entertainment throughout the day. Under 13s free. www.oultonpark.co.uk Poynton Park/Pool Gates open 5.30pm, 7pm Junior Display, 8pm Main Display. Bonfire, Fairground, Family Viewing Area, Live Bands Stage, Licensed Bar, Food Stalls. www.poyntonbonfire.co.uk Rochdale Cricket Club Gates open 5.30pm. BBQ, bonfire food, sparklers, DJs. 0786 642 5340 / www.rochdaleonline.co.uk Whalley Range Cricket Club Gates open 7pm for this community Bonfire and Fireworks night. www.whalleyrange.play-cricket.com Wilmslow Carnival Field Gates open 5.30pm, Bonfire lit 6.30pm, Children’s Display 7pm, Main Display 7.30pm. Food, drink and children’s funfair. www.wilmslowfireworks.co.uk

National Awareness Days

Look out for some great local activities across the region in November and December and show your support where you can:

Road Safety Week Monday 23 – Sunday 29 November www.roadsafetyweek.org.uk

Anti-bullying Month Monday 2 – Friday 27 November (Anti bullying week Monday 16 – Friday 20 November) www.antibullyingweek.co.uk

National Tree Week Saturday 28 November – Sunday 6 December www.treecouncil.org.uk/Take-Part/National-Tree-Week

BBC Children In Need Friday 13 November www.bbc.co.uk/corporate2/childreninneed

Wallace and Gromit’s Big Bake Monday 7 – Sunday 13 December www.wallaceandgromitcharity.org/event/ wallace-gromits-big-bake

Universal Children’s Day Friday 20 November www.un.org/en/events/childrenday

Festival of Winter Walks Sunday 20 December – Monday 4 January www.ramblers.org.uk/go-walking/festival-of-winter-walks

18 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

The Trafford Centre (Barton Square) Victorian Carousel Mon – Sat 10am – 8pm, Sun 11am – 6pm / £2.50 A real treat for children of all ages. www.intu.co.uk/traffordcentre

Wed 4 Nov & Wed 2 Dec

The National Football Museum, Manchester Tiny Team Talk 10.30am / Under 5s / £2 per child, booking advised A fun interactive story session developed especially for under-5s and their grown-ups. Each story includes puppetry and the chance to explore the museum.

0161 871 8145 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

Thurs 5 Nov & Thurs 3 Dec

The John Rylands Library, Manchester Toddler Tales 10.30 – 11.30 / Under 5s / Free, drop in. Pull up a cushion in the cosy corner for great stories, songs and other fun activities. 0161 306 555 / www.manchester.ac.uk/library/rylands Stockport Museum Arts & Craft Club 3.30 – 4.30pm / Ages 5 – 9 / £2, Booking essential Spend an hour after school being creative. www.stockport.gov.uk

Fri 6 Nov & Fri 4 Dec

The Lowry, Salford Under 5s Doodle Tots 10 – 10.45am & 11.15am – 12pm / Age 2 ½ - 4 ½ / £3.50. Art workshops to enjoy painting, sticking and making your own works of art. No skills or expertise needed.

Aprons provided!

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Friday 6, 13, 20, 27 Nov Fri 4, 11, 18 Dec

The Lowry, Salford Under 5s First Steps 10 – 10.45am & 11 – 11.45am / Ages 2 ½ – 4 ½ / £3.50. Wriggle, jiggle and jump as we explore stories, rhythm and music through our bodies.

Everyone welcome, come and have a go!

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Sat 7 Nov

Albert Square, Manchester Christmas Lights Switch On Free party to officially open six weeks of festive celebrations and attractions. www.visitmanchester.com Manchester Art Gallery Baby Saturday 1 – 3pm / Free, drop in. Baby sensory play.

0161 235 8888 / www.manchesterartgallery.org Bolton Central Library and Museum Family Learning Festival 10am – 4pm / All ages / Free. Join Bolton College and Bolton Library and Museum Services for our Family Learning Festival activities - ‘Imagination Station - start your journey here’.

01204 332211 / www.boltonlams.co.uk

Sat 7 Nov & Sat 5 Dec

The John Rylands Library, Manchester Children’s spookily gothic tour 11am – 12pm / Age 5+ / Free, Booking essential. A fun behind-the-scenes tour of The John Rylands Library 0161 306 555 / www.manchester.ac.uk/library/rylands Lyme Park, Disley Xplorer orienteering Family fun exploring the park, find the markers and complete the challenge! Using a simple map, families can be active in the outdoors, be closer to nature and learn new skills too! 01663 762023 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme-park

Hall i’ th’ Wood Museum Crafternoons Free family friendly activities. 1 – 3pm / Free www.boltonlams.co.uk

Sat 7 & Sun 8 Nov

Manchester Museum Children Say the Funniest Things Free, drop in. A weekend full of family friendly hands on and interactive activities. Discover more about the science behind the way we communicate, and develop our communication skills from an early age. Story making activities in the Nature Discovery gallery on Sat 7 Nov at 11.30am – 12.30pm and 1 – 2pm, for under 5’s and their parents/carers; sign up on the day for this activity, places limited). 0161 275 2634 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum

Sat 7, 14, 21 & 28 Nov Sat 5, 12 & 19 Dec

The Lowry, Salford Lookout, it’s Saturday Playhouse A free weekly art activity for children and their families in the dedicated Lookout space.

7 Nov: Firework Fun! 14 Nov: Circus Mobiles 21 Nov: Wheely good!

28 Nov: Scrunchy Snowmen 5 Dec: Star Pictures 12 Dec: Crazy Christmas cards 19 Dec: Penguin Puppets 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Sundays in Nov & Dec

Salford Museum & Art Gallery Creative Sundays 12.30 – 3pm / Age 5 – 10 / Free, drop in. A different arts & crafts activity every week. Mr Tomlinson’s Sweet Shop is open selling sweet treats 1st Sunday of the month (Arts & crafts not available when the sweet shop is open).

8 Nov: Victorian Toys with Mr Radclyffe 15 Nov: Button Tree Collages 22 Nov: Drawing activities with artist John Sculley 29 Nov: Drawing activities with artist John Sculley 6 Dec: A Musical Christmas 13 Dec: Festive Star 20 Dec: Peace Dove 0161 778 0800 / www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Mon 9, 23 & 30 Nov

Z-arts, Hulme Paint Pots for Tots 10.30am / Ages 2 – 5 / Booking required A new story each week and we get creative. Parents are with their children to enjoy the fun.

0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org

Wed 11, 18 & 25 Nov Wed 2, 9 & 16 Dec

Ordsall Hall Once upon a Time 9.45am / Under 5s / £1 per child. Discover what’s behind the doors of Ordsall Hall with a different activity each week such as storytelling, craft or music.

0161 872 0251 / www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Thurs 12 & 26 Nov, Thurs 10 Dec Touchstones, Rochdale Shake, Rattle and Roll 11am – 12pm / Age 0 – 4 / Free, drop in Make some noise in the Art Gallery! A fun, musical drop-in session in the Art Gallery.

01706 924492 / www.link4life.org

Thurs 12 – Sun 15 Nov

Event City, Manchester The Ideal Home Show at Christmas Everything you could possibly need for the yuletide season, from over 300 exhibitors showcasing Christmas shopping inspiration, a variety of celebrity and expert appearances and a range of festive features, including a Christmas bandstand sponsored by Gocompare.com hosting live entertainment. 0844 209 7366 / www.idealhomeshowmanchester.com

Remember to check our What’s On Calendar on www.familiesmanchester.co.uk regularly, as not all event information is available at the time of going to print.

Thurs 12 Nov – Sun 3 Jan

New Bailey, Manchester M3 5EN Ice Rink Mon – Fri: 3 – 9pm , Sat & Sun 10.30 – 9pm Open daily except Christmas day. Situated next to Spinningfields, New Bailey is the new home of the city centre’s biggest ice rink and a hub of festive fun, including fairground rides, family entertainment and tasty food offerings.

0161 8209718 / www.manchestericerink.co.uk

Fri 13 Nov

Manchester Art Gallery Baby Art Club 10.15 – 11am, 11.30am – 12.15pm, 1.15 – 2pm, 2.30 – 3.15pm / Free. Join musician Najia Bagi on a journey of language and sounds in artworks. For babies who aren’t walking yet and their parents/carers. Advance booking a week in advance essential.

Mini Art Club Explore artworks, create and get messy. 10.15 – 11.15am, 11.30am – 12.30pm / Ages 1 – 4 / Free. Collect, sort and decorate. Advance booking a week in advance essential. 0161 235 8888 / www.manchesterartgallery.org

Sat 14 Nov

Manchester Art Gallery Family Art Club 1 – 3pm / Ages 5 – 11 / Free. Enjoy art, be creative and make things together.

0161 235 8888 / www.manchesterartgallery.org Bolton Central Library and Museum Cinema at The Crescent - Penguins of Madagascar 2 – 4pm / Ages 0 – 15 / Free 01204 332211 / www.boltonlams.co.uk

Mon 16 Nov

Z-arts, Hulme Jitterbugs 10.30am / Ages 2 – 5 / Booking required Bring your toddlers down and get down and boogie.

0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org

Fri 20 Nov

Sat 21 Nov & Sat 19 Dec

Harwood Library Saturday Stars 3.30 – 4.30pm / Ages 5 – 12 / Free. To Books and Beyond! – Listen to stories and facts about space, help to create and interactive solar system and make an alien to take home. www.boltonlams.co.uk

Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) Experitots: Things that Move 10.30am – 12pm / £1 (1 adult, 1 child), £2 per additional adult/child / Booking advised. Creative activity sessions for under 6s using puppets and storytelling to help toddlers get the most out of the hands on science gallery, Experiment!

0161 833 0027 / www.mosi.org.uk

Mon 23 Nov – Sun 20 Dec

Sat 21 Nov

Fri 27 Nov

Heywood Town Centre Christmas Festival Lights Switch On 12pm, lights switch on 5.15pm / Free. Lantern Parade from the Heywood pub on Tower Street at 4pm through the town along Market Street to St Luke’s Parish Church arriving just before the switch on. There will be stalls outside the Civic Centre, mince pies and drinks served at St Luke’s, a concert, DJ, brass bands and more.

01706 922230 / www.rochdaleonline.co.uk Manchester Art Gallery Open Doors 9.15 – 10.45am / Ages 5 – 16 / Free. A series of creative, sensory activities especially aimed at children with autism. 0161 235 8869 / www.manchesterartgallery.org Bolton Central Library and Museum Theatre on Film - The BFG 10.30am – 12.30pm / All ages / Free 01204 332211 / www.boltonlams.co.uk

ARE YOU FEELING LUCKY?!

WIN a family ticket to the Manchester Ice Rink!

To celebrate Manchester Ice Rink’s new home this year at New Bailey, we’re giving away a family ticket for four to join in with the festive fun.

Situated next to Spinningfields, New Bailey is home to the city centre’s biggest ice rink and a hub of festive fun, including fairground rides, family entertainment and tasty food offerings.

To find out more information about Manchester Ice Rink, visit the website at www.manchestericerink.co.uk.

And to be in with the chance of winning the family ticket for four, just head over to our website www.familiesmanchester.co.uk to enter now. The competition closes on Monday 23 November.

What’s on

Tatton Park, Knutsford Ding Dong Merrily Mansion 11am - 4pm / Adult £9.50, Child £5.50, Car park entry also applies. Spectacular displays reflecting different traditional Christmas carols, live classical music and tasty bakes.

01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk Hat Works, Stockport Mad Hatters Arts & Crafts Club 2 – 3pm / Under 2s / £5 (2 adults free with each child), Booking essential. An action packed hour of arts and crafts for young ones.

0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Sat 28 Nov

Littleborough Square Christmas Lights Switch On 4pm, lights switch on 5.30pm 01706 373 371 / www.rochdaleonline.co.uk

Sat 28 & Sun 29 Nov

Bramhall Village Square Light Up Bramhall 2015 Christmas market stalls in the Village Square, Santa’s Grotto and Nativity Trail, Entertainment stage, Lantern parade and Santa’s Sleigh Float. Carol Service on Sunday. www.bramhallvillagesquare.co.uk

Dunham Massey, Altrincham Christmas at Dunham 12 – 4pm / All ages / Free, normal admission applies Step into the servants quarters for festive activities for all the family. Garden ticket required. Weave a willow star to decorate your tree, make a traditional pomander with the servants, listen to winter tales in the dairy, and enjoy festive food & drink in the historic kitchen.

0161 941 1025 / www.naitionaltrust.org.uk/dunham-massey

Weekends from Sat 28 Nov – Sun 20 Dec

Lyme Park, Disley Christmas in the courtyard 11am – 4pm / All ages / Free, normal entry applies Experience the sights, smells, sounds and tastes of a magical Christmas at Lyme in the beautiful courtyard.

Enjoy a Christmas trail around the garden. Listen to choirs, enjoy a cup of mulled wine and taste seasonal favourites from the shop. 01663 762023 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme-park

Thurs 3 & 10 Dec

Chester (starts from Forum Shopping Centre) Winter Watch Parade 7pm / Free. A spectacular event based on Chester’s 15th century tradition of ‘Setting the Watch’, when the city leaders handed over the keys of Chester to the City Watch – the early police force – after processing around the city to ensure it was Secure.

Colourful costumes and a collection of characters provide a popular festive event. Celebrate Christmas with the Lord of Misrule, devils and dragons, dancing and sword fights, and a spectacular fire-breathing finale. 0300 123 8 123 / www.westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

ARE YOU FEELING LUCKY?!

WIN tickets to The Ideal Home Show at Christmas!

The Ideal Home Show at Christmas sponsored by Gocompare.com is sleighing into Manchester for the second time after its hugely successful launch last year and you can win one of three pairs of tickets to this year’s show!

The North’s biggest Christmas exhibition will be open from Thursday 12 – Sunday 15 November at Event City, Manchester to provide visitors with everything they could possibly need for the yuletide season, from over 300 exhibitors showcasing Christmas shopping inspiration, a variety of celebrity and expert appearances and a range of festive features, including a Christmas bandstand sponsored by Gocompare.com hosting live entertainment.

Joining the yuletide celebrations will be an abundance of favourite celebrities, all on hand to offer visitors their own festive hints and tips to make Christmas Ideal. These include TV Chef Gino D’Acampo, Interior Designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, Wine Expert Olly Smith and Model and TV personality Katie Piper who will be making her Christmas show debut.

To win a pair of tickets to this fabulous event, just go to our website www.familiesmanchester.co.uk to enter. Competition closes Wednesday 11 November.

To book tickets visit www.idealhomeshowmanchester.com or call 0844 209 7366.

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 19

What’s on Sat 5 & Sun 6 Dec

A Musical Christmas Celebration Salford Museum & Art Gallery 12 – 4pm / All ages / Grotto £4. A weekend of Christmas celebrations including music, songs, crafts and a chance to meet Father Christmas! 0161 778 0800 / www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Sat 5 & Sun 6, Sat 12 & Sun 13 Dec

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal A Victorian Christmas The Quarry Bank workers and apprentices have to finish their jobs before Christmas can begin. Can you help them get to the Christmas party? Meet Victorian characters and find out about customs from the past. You can also visit Father Christmas and tell him what is on your list. Featuring illustrations by Catherine Jackman the artist behind An Apprentice Adventure.

01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ quarry-bank

Sat 5, 12 & 19 Dec

Chatsworth House, Bakewell Evening nativities in the Farmyard 6pm / Booking essential. Take the whole family along to farmyard nativity plays, starring Chatsworth’s own farm animals. Children (must be accompanied) who wish to dress up and participate can sign up for their parts on arrival.

01246 565300 / www.chatsworth.org

Sun 6 Dec

Ordsall Hall, Salford Through the Ages... Live!

1 - 4pm / £1 per child, drop in. A family fun day packed with arts, crafts and activities. 0161 872 0251 / www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk Ellenroad Engine House, Rochdale Open Day 11am – 3pm / £5, children free. Home to the world’s largest working steam mill engines which will be in full steam. Also a Christmas Fair with stalls from local craft businesses and live music from ‘The Moonshiners’.

Light refreshments in the onsite café.

07981 391 603 / www.ellenroad.org.uk

These listings are for guidance only – please check before you go To include your upcoming event in our listings, email events@familiesmanchester.co.uk Mon 7 Dec

Z-arts, Hulme Polkadots 10.30 – 11.15am / Ages 2 – 4 / Booking required Fun music and movement sessions for young children, giving them the opportunity to make and experience music with others including singing, playing percussion instruments, moving to music, puppets and playing as a group. 0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org

Thurs 10 Dec

Littleborough Coach House Carol Concert 7.30pm / Free but donations welcomed. Littleborough Brass Band will be accompanying the carolling as well as playing some festive pieces. The choir of a local Primary School will also be entertaining us with their own choice of Christmas music and representatives from local societies will be giving the readings. Tea, Coffee and Mince Pies will be served at the end of the concert.

01706 378481 / www.rochdaleonline.co.uk

Fri 11 Dec

Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) Experitots: Celebrations 10.30am – 12pm / £1 (1 adult, 1 child), £2 per additional adult/child / Booking advised. Creative activity sessions for under 6s using puppets and storytelling to help toddlers get the most out of the hands on science gallery, Experiment!

0161 833 0027 / www.mosi.org.uk Bolton Central Library Toddler Tales Special - Christmas 11am – 12pm / Ages 0 – 5 / Free 01204 332211 / www.boltonlams.co.uk

Sat 12 Dec

Bramhall Village Square It’s Christmas in the Village Square 11am. Nonstop fun with the Hilarious Minions show, Elves Workshop, Super cool kids disco, Hello Kitty and more. www.bramhallvillagesquare.co.uk

20 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Bolton Central Library and Museum Cinema at The Crescent - Into the Woods 2 – 4pm / Ages 0 – 15 / Free 01204 332211 / www.boltonlams.co.uk

Sat 12 Dec – Sun 3 Jan

Event City, Manchester Winter Wonderland Manchester Under 12s / Booking essential. The UK’s largest Indoor Christmas Theme Park returns this year with new rides. Your ticket gives you four hours of non-stop fun and entertainment with all attractions included in the price. www.winterwonderlandmanchester.com

Sun 13 Dec

Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester Christmas Family Day 11am – 4pm / Age 3+ / Adult £5, children free. A day of magical festive activities, interactive workshops and musical treats. Meet The Snowman, Santa and his Elves and embrace the Christmas spirit!

0161 907 5200 / www.rncm.ac.uk

Sat 19 Dec

Manchester Cathedral Family Carols Concert 7.30pm / Adult £10, Concession £8. Join the Manchester Cathedral Voluntary Choir for this concert of Christmas Carols, with a mix of both old and new music. The ticket price includes a glass of wine or soft drink and a mince pie.

0161 833 2220 / www.manchestercathedral.org Bolton Central Library and Museum Cinema at The Crescent - Christmas special - Nativity 3: Dude, Where’s my Donkey ? 2 – 4pm / Ages 0 – 15 / Free 01204 332211 / www.boltonlams.co.uk

Sun 20 Dec

Tatton Park, Knutsford Stableyard Carols 3pm / Free, Car park entry applies. Join in the Christmas carol singing with the King Edward Musical Society Band and choir in the festive setting of Tatton’s Stableyard. Shops will be open for last minute Christmas shopping and the Gardeners Cottage tea room and Stables restaurant will be open for coffees, lunch and afternoon teas.

01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Tues 22 Dec

Hall i’th Wood Museum, Bolton Christmas craft session 12.30 – 2pm / Ages 4 – 11 / Free, drop in. Get festive as we make Christmas cards and crafts. Suitable for ages 4 – 11.

01204 332377 / www.boltonlams.co.uk

Thurs 24 Dec

Let’s Party, Bury Chocolate making with the Elves 2 – 3.30pm / All ages / £10 (spectating adults free), booking and payment before 5 Dec essential.

Make your very own Giant Chocolate bar! Decorate a Christmas Cookie and make your own chocolate clusters with your favourite ingredients. Plus a sing song and dance in the disco!

0161 797 1111 / www.letspartyvenue.co.uk

Mon 28 & Tues 29 Dec

Bolton Steam Museum December Steamings 10am – 4pm Our volunteers have rescued and restored over 25 old stationery steam engines – some of the engines which once powered the cotton mills of Lancashire.

Most will be running ins team on these days only, and admission is free although donations gratefully received!

01204 846490 / www.nmes.org