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OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN FREE MAGAZINE: WHAT’S ON WHE RE GUIDE Greater Manchester
OCTOBER HALF TERM 2026 • ISSUE 206 5TH OCTOBER – 8TH NOVEMBER 2026
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HALF TERM FUN • LOCAL NEWS • BOX OFFICE • FAMILY EVENTS
flu: 5 reasons to vaccinate your child 1. Protect your child
The vaccine will help protect your child against flu and serious complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia
2. Protect you, your family and friends Vaccinating your child will help protect more vulnerable friends and family
3. No injection needed The nasal spray is painless and easy to have
4. It’s better than having flu
The nasal spray helps protect against flu, has been given to millions of children worldwide and has an excellent safety record
5. Avoid costs
If your child gets flu, you may have to take time off work or arrange alternative childcare
Most children have the nasal spray vaccine which is the preferred vaccine. A vaccine injection is also available which does not contain gelatine from pigs (porcine gelatine).
For more information visit www.nhs.uk/child-flu
Helping to protect children, every winter © Crown copyright 2024. Product code: FLU5RY24. UK Health Security Agency gateway number: 2024104 If you want to order more copies of this poster, please visit: healthpublications.gov.uk/Home.html or call 0300 123 1002.
INSIDE Greater Manchester
I love autumn, with its colourful scenery to explore with the children and plenty of seasonal activities and events to enjoy! From spooky goings-on to firework nights, there are lots of things to do over the upcoming half term and beyond – with the hint of the festive season on the horizon too! Our October Half Term feature details lots of venues to consider, while our What’s On Where pages list events in date order, making it easy to plan your weeks ahead. Keep an eye out for special offers and vouchers as you read on. Have fun, and enjoy autumn and half term! We’ll be back after the clocks have changed and the nights are drawing in, bringing you all things Christmassy in our Winter Issue. Best wishes,
04 06 OCTOBER HALF TERM WOW 10 12 BOX OFFICE BOOK FOR CHRISTMAS 14 LOCAL NEWS
The latest news from in and around Manchester
Days out and events for families this season
What’s on Where – a diary of activities
October Half Term 2026 PUBLISHED BY
Moonscape Media Ltd 07710 229189 kerry@moonscapemedia.net EDITOR
Louise Fry PRODUCTION
Tristan Kayes
ADVERTISING
Kerry Beardsmore LISTINGS EDITOR
Suzanne Watson
A selection of family shows coming soon
A preview of what’s to come in the festive season
Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through primary schools in Greater Manchester. It aims to inform families and children about current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses, attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or by joining in the competitions. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in Greater Manchester for their assistance in distributing the magazine and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary Times or with the relevant contributor. Primary Times is currently publishing over 2 million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout the UK. Primary Times Greater Manchester is operated under franchise licence.
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OCTOBER HALF TERM 2026 3
Local NEWS
Check what’s happening in the area. We have a free registration offer from Kumon, important information on vaccines, and Manchester Storm are back at the AO Arena!
Watch their skills and confidence grow With over 60 years of experience and more than 3.5 million students worldwide, it’s no surprise that Kumon is the world’s leading supplementary education provider. The Kumon Maths and English Programmes help children build confidence, improve focus, and develop independent study skills that last a lifetime. Now is the perfect time for your family to discover the benefits of Kumon as study centres across Manchester are offering Free Registration to new and returning students until 15th October 2026. For more information and to book your child’s Kumon free assessment, contact your local study centre, via the website at www.kumon.co.uk
Protect your child against flu Flu can be unpleasant for children, causing fever, aches and extreme tiredness, some children need hospital treatment. Flu often rises during December and January, so it’s still worthwhile getting your child vaccinated. The flu vaccine is the best way to help protect your child and those around them. Most children are offered a quick, painless nasal spray at school, return the consent form quickly so your child can receive their vaccination. Children with certain long-term health conditions and those aged 2-3 can also receive the vaccine through their GP practice. If you would prefer a gelatine-free vaccine, please contact your GP practice or school immunisation team. W: www.nhs.uk/child-flu
FREE REGISTRATION
The first Northern academic girls’ school, founded in 1874 with alumnae achieving many historical firsts, MHSG is a proudly single-sex, 152-year-old, award-winning school fostering a love for holistic education and academic excellence. Students achieved 92% A*-B at A-level and 77% Grades 9-7 (A*-A) at GCSE in 2026. MHSG is hosting a number of Autumn Open Events in October and November. Find out more and book at www.manchesterhigh.co.uk call 0161 224 0447 email registrar@mhsg.manchester.sch.uk or find them on socials @manhighgirls
© Mathew Paul Collier
Manchester High School for Girls is a School of Firsts
Manchester Storm are home – live ice hockey at the AO Arena After 24 years away, Manchester Storm have moved back to the AO Arena, bringing live ice hockey back to the heart of the city. Looking for something different to do with the family? Go along to discover ice hockey together, with fast-paced action, big saves, goals and plenty of atmosphere. For children who have never watched a hockey game before, it’s a chance to see a new sport up close and experience the excitement of live sport. Take the family, enjoy the action and support Manchester’s ice hockey team. Manchester Storm – back where they belong. Get your tickets for the homecoming season. W: www.manchesterstorm.com
Free school trip travel by tram
Say you saw it in Primary Times 4 OCTOBER HALF TERM 2026
Unlock learning beyond the classroom with free tram travel for school trips across Greater Manchester. Thanks to support from Aviva, Bee Network tram travel is completely free for schools, making it easier and more affordable to visit museums, galleries, theatres, heritage sites and other educational attractions. Whether you’re planning a cultural visit, history lesson or creative day out, free travel means you can focus on giving pupils unforgettable experiences. Booking is simple: choose your destination, complete the online form at least seven days before travel, and they’ll take care of the rest. Visit www.beenetwork.com/school-trips to find out more. www.primarytimes.co.uk/manchester
Local NEWS
FAMILY TIME. STORM STYLE! Tech Infused Mini Golf
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9 HOLES Only £10 pp Three Courses Family Fun Bookings & Walk-ins welcome Urban Playground, Arndale Centre
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This is a School of Firsts
Book open events at
manchesterhigh.co.uk Empowering Girls since 1874 www.primarytimes.co.uk/manchester
OCTOBER HALF TERM 2026 5
October HALF TERM
This is our favourite half term of the year because there is so much to do! From colourful nature to explore, and pumpkins to pick, to spooky events and family theatre, there really is something for everyone.
Make half term one to remember at Oldham Coliseum Theatre
Seasonal fun for the whole family at Bents
The Hideout lands at Spindles on Monday 26th October, bringing friendship to life through circus, parkour and playful physical theatre. Follow Luca and Maya as they turn a fallen tree into a playground, exploring trust, confidence and the ups and downs of making friends. Perfect for ages all pages, this is a funny, touching and spectacular show with prices from just £5. Also coming up, don’t miss The Jeweller’s Daughter on Saturday 17th October – a joyful, interactive story celebrating Zanzibar, culture and difference. Book now at www.coliseum.org.uk
This half term, Bents has plenty of family fun with spooktacular activities to enjoy. Little monsters can unleash their creativity at Halloween crafting sessions, or why not take the family to meet and feed the alpacas or enjoy the seasonal displays. Families can also embrace the outdoors with the Windy Bank Woods nature trail, a beautiful 5k walk through the countryside, and don’t forget the amazing light trail returns for 2026! Perfect for all ages, this Aladdin inspired award-winning light trail takes you on a magical storytelling adventure filled with imagination, mystery and enchantment! Check online to find out more. W: www.bents.co.uk
Family fun at Putters this half term This October half term, get the whole family together for some friendly competition at Putters at Urban Playground Manchester. With prices starting from just £10 per person, it’s a fun and affordable way to entertain kids, teens and grown-ups during the school holidays. Take on creative mini golf holes and playful challenges, with plenty of opportunities for family bragging rights, all indoors and away from the autumn weather. Located in Manchester Arndale, it’s perfectly placed for a family day out, with shopping and food nearby. Whatever the weather, Putters promises plenty of half-term fun! Book now at www.urbanplayground.co.uk
There’s Loads to Do this October half term Manchester City Council has teamed up with communities and activity leaders across the area to bring all school holiday activities and events on one website Loadstodo.co.uk Working with partners across Manchester, they have pulled together a brilliant list of Halloween activities and events. From pumpkin carving and spooky storytimes to creepy park trails and Halloween arts and crafts, there’s so much to see and do this Halloween in your local area. W: www.loadstodo.co.uk/schoolhols
Celebrate the spooky season with Fright Fiesta at Gulliver’s Spooky season has arrived and Gulliver’s Theme Parks is the perfect place to enjoy all the frightful festivities. Fright Fiesta is bursting with colour, costumes and music. Get together for the spookiest season of the year at Gulliver’s with fabulous family activities, frights and theme park fun.
© Quorduroy Creative / Miça Quartey
Tickets start from just £19pp making for a great value Halloween event at four different UK locations in Matlock Bath, Warrington, Milton Keynes and Rotherham. Theme Park entry is included along with a whole host of fiendishly friendly family activities and entertainment. Guests can showcase fancy dress costumes, discover spooktacular rides, explore Haunted Houses, and so much more! Extend the fun with a Fright Fiesta sleepover. Choose from a range of themed accommodation, including enchanting Princess Suites, fantastic Fairy Dens and roarsome Lost World Lodges. Book tickets online at www.gulliversfun.co.uk
SEE VOUCHER IN THIS MAGAZINE FOR A GREAT OFFER! 6 OCTOBER HALF TERM 2026
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Primary Times (88x131) October HALF TERM
Y’ HE
RE
Autumn fun starts here
!
CK A B T
Y VER BE RAID! AF
SKELLIES & WELLIES
From our amazing seasonal displays to awesome autumn walks there’s something for everyone to do at Bents this season.
24 October - 1 November 2026* Find bone-chilling skeleton displays ready to tickle your funny bone!
tattonpark.org.uk/halloween
SPO HAL OKY LO FUN WEEN IN T H GAR DEN E S!
Awesome Autumn & Halloween Displays and Events!
Standard gardens and parkland entry apply. * Closed Mondays
Don’t miss out on our new Winter Light Walk!
Book your place today!
Bents.co.uk
Glazebury, Cheshire, WA3 5NT
est 1937
OCTOBER HALF TERM 2026 7
www.primarytimes.co.uk/manchester Bents Primary Times 88x269mm Oct26 V2.indd 1
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October HALF TERM
Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular returns This Halloween, prepare for thrills, laughter and spectacular family entertainment as Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular takes over the Trafford Centre from Saturday 10th October until Sunday 1st November! Step inside the Big Top for an action-packed show featuring incredible international circus artistes, amazing skills, hilarious comedy and spooky surprises. It’s Halloween USE CODE PT20 FOR 20% OFF! entertainment Gandeys-style – big, bold, colourful and packed with excitement for children and grown-ups alike. Perfect for an October family day out, the Spooktacular promises edge-of-your-seat entertainment and plenty of moments that will have everyone talking afterwards.
You’ll find skeletons and pumpkins at Tatton Park
Primary Times readers save 20% when booking online using code PT20 (T&Cs apply). Book your seats… if you dare! W: www.gandeyscircus.com
Step into 50 acres of Tatton Park’s autumnal gardens where hilarious and haunting skeleton displays are waiting to surprise and delight. Each skeleton scene will tickle your funny bone with a cracking joke! Can you find them all? (Standard garden and parkland entry apply. National Trust members enjoy free garden entry). Head to the farm for their annual pumpkin picking, from Saturday 10th until Saturday 31st October. Fill your barrow with pumpkins of all sizes picked fresh from the field. Prices start form £2. (Farm and parkland entry applies to access the pumpkin patch). Book tickets at www.tattonpark.org.uk
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Spooky Plants at RHS Garden Bridgewater Step into the ghoulish garden for some Halloween fun and uncover the spooky secrets of plants at RHS Garden Bridgewater, Salford. This October half term, discover the magical powers and spooky secrets hidden in plants at RHS Bridgewater. Meet mysterious plant life, tackle the interactive garden trail and get up close with creepy crawlies from Zoolab – it’s terrifyingly good fun for the whole family. Garden admission applies; free to RHS members and children under 5. Children 5-16 go for £6. Book online and save. W: www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/bridgewater
• • • • •
5 FOR £59!
MATLOCK BATH DE4 3PG
WARRINGTON WA5 9YZ
MILTON KEYNES MK15 0DT
ROTHER VALLEY S26 5QW
Admits up to 5 people for the price of 2 full-paying adult/child tickets when purchased at the gates. Exchange this voucher at the entrance of any Gulliver’s Theme Park from 10th-30th Oct 2026. Original magazine voucher only; digital versions or photocopies will not be accepted. Cannot be pre-booked online. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Subject to availability. Please check online for full park opening times and gate prices.
8 OCTOBER HALF TERM 2026
ROTHERHAM
Spectacular Displays Fun for All Ages Street Food & Bar Dog Friendly Nights Dazzling Photo Points
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MILTON KEYNES WARRINGTON
LANDOFLIGHTS.CO.UK
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LOADS TO Doooooo THIS
Half-Term Sing, play, make... there are loads of activities for young people of all ages this half-term. Plus there are thousands of FREE places available for children entitled to free school meals, and a FREE healthy meal is included. There’s loads to do at
loadstodo.co.uk /schoolhols
WOW
What’s on Where in Greater Manchester
ONGOING
Pumpkin Picking
Details of What’s on Where across the county, all in date order to help you plan your weeks ahead. Don’t forget to mention that you saw it in Primary Times!
Family Golf Putters, Urban Playground Manchester www.urbanplayground.co.uk Take on creative mini golf holes and playful challenges, with plenty of opportunities for family bragging rights, all indoors and away from the autumn weather. From just £10 per person.
Scarecrow Display RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/bridgewater Explore a fantastic display of animalthemed scarecrows surrounded by a bounty of colourful autumn pumpkins. Wander through the field, spot your favourite creatures and snap plenty of memorable photos along the way.
Wild Things
FREE Lowry www.thelowry.com A new free exhibition that will take young children and their families on a fun-filled animal adventure through some of the most loved stories of all time. From beloved classics including Elmer, Dear Zoo, Owl Babies, and lots more, the exhibition brings together stories that generations of families love, alongside almost 100 original illustrations. The exhibition also includes lots of fun interactives and games designed especially for under 7s. Running until Sunday 1st November.
Saturday 10th – Saturday 31st October Fright Fiesta Gulliver’s World, WA5 9YZ www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk Enjoy a festival-style Halloween celebration that’s bursting with colour, costumes and music. Theme Park rides and attractions included.
Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk Head to the Farm to meet all your Farmyard friends, then grab a barrow and pick your own pumpkins from the field, there’s an array of colours and sizes! Pumpkins start from £2. Farm entry tickets must be purchased to access the pumpkin patch.
Saturday 10th October – Sunday 1st November Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular Trafford Centre www.gandeyscircus.com Step inside the Big Top for an actionpacked show featuring incredible international circus artistes, amazing skills, hilarious comedy and spooky surprises. It’s Halloween entertainment Gandeys-style – big, bold, colourful and packed with excitement for children and grown-ups alike.
Use code PT20 for 20% OFF!
Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th October Blast off for a Grand Day Out Jodrell Bank www.jodrellbank.net Watch Wallace & Gromit: A Grand Day Out inside the spectacular Space Dome, with the film brought to life by musicians performing the soundtrack live. Join Wallace and Gromit as their search for cheese takes them all the way to the Moon, where a mysterious mechanical visitor awaits. Families can also book a clay workshop (£6 per person) to make a plasticine moon together, meet the musicians and pose for a photograph with Wallace & Gromit.
Saturday 24th – Saturday 31 October Spooky Grass Heads RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/bridgewater Get creative with a range of craft materials to decorate your very own spooky plant pot head. Plant some seeds inside, take your pot home and watch as it sprouts a wild spooky hairstyle. Running on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
10 OCTOBER HALF TERM 2026
Saturday 24th October – Sunday 1st November Spooky Plants Trail RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/bridgewater Explore the interactive garden trail featuring scary-looking species, plants with legendary healing powers and poisonous plants with dark secrets. Discover fascinating plant facts, collect rubbings and design your own spooky plant to take home. Keep an eye out for potion-making inspiration and plenty of fiendishly fun photo opportunities along the way.
Skellies and Wellies in the Garden Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk Step into 50 acres of Tatton Park’s autumnal gardens where hilarious and haunting skeleton displays are waiting to surprise and delight. Each skeleton scene will tickle your funny bone with a cracking joke! Can you find them all? Standard garden and parkland entry apply. National Trust members enjoy free garden entry.
There’s Loads to Do Venues across Manchester www.loadstodo.co.uk/schoolhols Manchester City Council has teamed up with communities and activity leaders across the area to bring all school holiday activities and events on one website. Check online for a brilliant list of Halloween activities and events in your local area.
Saturday 24th October – Saturday 30th January Land of Lights Lantern Festival Gulliver’s World, WA5 9YZ warrington.landoflights.co.uk The award-winning Land of Lights Lantern Festival returns to Warrington for a fourth season. Discover NEW lantern displays, glowing trails, and magical scenes lighting up the night this winter. Running on selected dates.
Tuesday 27th October Meet & Feed the Alpacas Bents www.bents.co.uk Meet and feed the alpacas, get up close for cuddles and enjoy individual and family photo opportunities. Perfect for little ones, animal lovers and families looking for something a little different to enjoy together. 10-11am. £10, tickets required.
Tuesday 27th & Wednesday 28th October Zoolab Animal Encounters RHS Garden Bridgewater www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/bridgewater Join the Zoolab witch or wizard to concoct a magic potion! Get up close with snakes, snails and spiders, as they add all the special ingredients into a smoking cauldron. Eye of Newt, Lizard’s Tail and Elephants Ear’s – are all these magical items what they seem? Bookable 45-minute sessions.
Wednesday 28th & Thursday 29th October Spooky Family Tea Bents www.bents.co.uk Little monsters can tuck into a tasty hot meal before getting creative with Paintings by Nel, making their own Halloween-themed crafts to take home. There will also be spooky colouring to enjoy, with spooky Witches on hand to help throughout the evening. Children are encouraged to arrive in their best Halloween costumes for the dressup competition, with prizes for the most spooktacular looks! Adults can join the celebrations whilst enjoying a delicious Halloween cake and filter coffee or tea. 5-6.30pm.
We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip…or promise! www.primarytimes.co.uk/manchester
WOW – What’s On Where
Thursday 29th – Saturday 31st October
Friday 20th November – Wednesday 30th December
Friday 4th December – Sunday 3rd January
Myth, Magic and Mystery at the Old Hall
The Magic Lamp in the Hidden Garden – A Winter Light Trail
Snowstorm
Tatton Park www.tattonpark.org.uk Explore the superstitions and traditions associated with Halloween, as well as other spooky myths and legends throughout history. Have a go at brewing a potion and learn what gruesome ingredients were used for medicines in the past. Must be pre-booked. £15 per person.
Halloween Ghost Trains East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk Board the Scream Train and solve the mystery of the Swamp Monster of Irwell Vale! Something very strange is happening along the tracks of the East Lancashire Railway this Halloween… Join Zombie Bob and his friendly Monster Squad as they attempt to discover the truth. Is there really a Swamp Thing out there, or is someone playing a spooky Halloween Trick.
Saturday 7th November Fireworks Spectacular Gulliver’s World, WA5 9YZ www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk Celebrate Bonfire Night and enjoy hours of theme park rides, attractions and entertainment, complete with a spectacular fireworks display in the evening.
www.primarytimes.co.uk/manchester
Bents www.bents.co.uk Follow the glow of twinkling lights and step into a spellbinding experience. Expect dazzling theatrical light installations, immersive soundscapes, and magical storytelling touches around every corner.
Trafford Centre www.snow-storm.co.uk Step into a spectacular frozen world with Snowstorm, a breathtaking family production from Gandey World Class Productions. Combining world-class circus, stunning ice skating, incredible aerial performances, music, lighting and dazzling special effects, Snowstorm brings the magic of winter to life in an unforgettable festive spectacular.
Saturday 28th November – Thursday 24th December Santa Specials East Lancashire Railway www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk Bury Station has been transformed into a winter wonderland. You’ll be welcomed by colourful characters and directed to your seat on board a heritage steam train. Enjoy a traditional brass band, meet even more characters, and be visited by Santa himself, who will make his way through the train giving out gifts and stopping for selfies!
Use code PT20 to get 20% OFF!
Say you saw it in Primary Times
OCTOBER HALF TERM 2026 11
Box OFFICE
A selection of shows coming to a stage near you! Plan ahead for the half term and beyond, with lots of festive performances on the horizon. Middleton Arena
Say you saw it in Primary Times
Albert Halls Bolton
AO Arena
www.alberthalls-bolton.co.uk
www.ao-arena.com
www.yourtrustrochdale.co.uk
Saturday 24th October
Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th November
Thursday 26th November – Monday 28th December
GLADIATORS LIVE TOUR 2026
CINDERELLA
Oldham Coliseum Theatre
This adrenaline-fuelled twohour arena event sees the legendary Gladiators return. Expect iconic fan-favourite events, breathtaking stunts, epic head-to-head battles and the unforgettable Eliminator finale.
Starring Strictly Come Dancing’s Amy Dowden, this magical fairytale for all the family features dazzling dance routines, a live band, stunning scenery and amazing special effects! Cinderella has always dreamed of leaving her dull life as a servant to meet a handsome prince, and when Prince Charming announces a royal ball, it seems she may get her chance!
www.coliseum.org.uk
THE MAGIC OF SCIENCE Fusing the mystery of magic with wondrous and miraculous feats of science. Hang on to your seats and experience a non-stop action packed interactive magical science show with experiments and magic that will capture the imagination. Join Top Secret as they go on a High Voltage Adventure!
Tuesday 1st – Thursday 31st December
SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS Join beautiful Snow White and her seven little friends as they battle the evil Wicked Queen, who is overcome with jealousy when her Magic Mirror declares Snow White the fairest in all the land. Packed with great songs, dazzling dance routines, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes, hilarious comedy and amazing special effects, this magical pantomime promises unforgettable fun for the whole family.
Heywood Civic www.heywoodcivic.co.uk
Thursday 29th October
UNICORN LIVE! Featuring your favourite pop and musical theatre songs, dazzling costumes, and a real unicorn called Sparkle, this show is a show like no other for children of all ages – and after every performance there is a free photo opportunity with Harmony, Melody and Starlight.
Saturday 12th – Sunday 27th December
ALADDIN Starring Coronation Street’s Helen Flanagan as The Spirit of the Lamp and fellow Corrie star Steven Arnold as Wishee Washee. Aladdin is tricked by the evil Abanazar and ends up trapped in the Cave of Wonders, where he finds a magic lamp and a Genie to save the day! What will he do with his three wishes and how will he win the heart of the beautiful Princess Jasmine?
THE JEWELLER’S DAUGHTER
Friday 20th November – Saturday 9th January
The Jeweller’s Daughter tells the story of a little island in the Indian Ocean called Zanzibar; of a girl whose family were forced to leave, and the welcoming community they then found. Full of celebration, culture and engagement. Children and adults alike can get involved in playful and creative ways as they are invited to join in and learn together – helping to tell the story, led by Natasha, the Storyteller.
CINDERELLA: A FAIRYTALE
Monday 26th October
Octagon Theatre www.octagonbolton.co.uk
When Ella’s father remarries, her world turns upside down. She escapes from her horrible new family by spending time in the woods, surrounded by her friends, the birds. But when she bumps into a mysterious bird-loving boy and gets an invitation to the Royal ball, everything changes... Cinderella: A Fairytale brings this well-loved classic tale bang up to date with a funny, high-energy show that will be a real crowd pleaser for the whole family.
THE HIDEOUT Friendship is wonderful… and tricky. Especially when you’re Luca. The Hideout is a vibrant and daring mix of circus, parkour, and heartfelt storytelling that captures the highs and lows of making a new friend. Through breathtaking acrobatics and playful physical theatre, Luca and Maya navigate the delicate balance of trust, boundaries, competition, and connection.
We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip…or promise!
BOO NOWK
12 OCTOBER HALF TERM 2026
Saturday 17th October
FRI 20 NOV 2026 – SAT 9 JAN 2027 octagonbolton.co.uk 01204 520661 www.primarytimes.co.uk/manchester
Box OFFICE Your Trust in association with Shone Productions presents
Middleton Arena Amy Dowden Will Appear In Performances From 20th Dec Onwards
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Free school trip travel by tram You can find out more and book online at beenetwork.com/school-trips
MUSEUMS Proudly supported by
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Book for CHRISTMAS Here we have a snapshot of what is to come in the festive season! You can plan ahead and book tickets for a family show or Christmas train ride to look forward to.
Cinderella: A Fairytale at the Octagon Theatre, Bolton FRIDAY 20TH NOVEMBER – SATURDAY 9TH JANUARY Make this Christmas one to remember with Cinderella: A Fairytale. When Ella’s father remarries, her world turns upside down. She escapes from her horrible new family by spending time in the woods, surrounded by her friends, the birds. But when she bumps into a mysterious bird-loving boy and gets an invitation to the Royal ball, everything changes... Whether it’s your family’s first visit to an Octagon festive show or a much-loved annual tradition, the Octagon is ready to welcome you to this funny, high-energy retelling of the classic story that’s packed with music, magic and laughter for the whole family. Tickets from £17. W: www.octagonbolton.co.uk/whats-on
Santa Specials at the East Lancashire Railway SATURDAY 28TH NOVEMBER – THURSDAY 24TH DECEMBER All aboard for a magical adventure this Christmas at the East Lancashire Railway! Begin with a walk through Bury Station, which has been transformed into a winter wonderland. You’ll be welcomed by colourful characters and then directed to your seat on board a heritage steam train. During the journey, you will enjoy a traditional brass band, meet even more characters, and be visited by Santa himself, who will make his way through the train giving out gifts and stopping for selfies! Find out more and book your tickets online. W: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
Aladdin at Heywood Civic SATURDAY 12TH – SUNDAY 27TH DECEMBER Don’t miss this magical carpet ride of a pantomime packed with song, dance, comedy and magic! Starring Coronation Street’s Helen Flanagan as The Spirit of the Lamp and fellow Corrie star Steven Arnold as Wishee Washee, it’s off to old Heywood town for journey filled with laughter and adventure. Aladdin is tricked by the evil Abanazar and ends up trapped in the Cave of Wonders, where he finds a magic lamp and a Genie to save the day! What will he do with his three wishes and how will he win the heart of the beautiful Princess Jasmine? Tickets from £12.60. W: www.heywoodcivic.co.uk 14 OCTOBER HALF TERM 2026
Snowstorm – a frozen adventure at the Trafford Centre FRIDAY 4TH DECEMBER – SUNDAY 3RD JANUARY This Christmas, step into a spectacular frozen world with Snowstorm, a breathtaking family production from Gandey World Class Productions. Combining world-class circus, stunning ice skating, incredible aerial performances, music, lighting and dazzling special effects, Snowstorm brings the magic of winter to life in an unforgettable festive spectacular. From thrilling performances to beautiful moments of Christmas wonder, it’s a show designed to captivate children, parents and grandparents alike – and a magical addition to your family’s festive celebrations. Primary Times readers can save 20% when booking tickets online. Simply use discount code PT20 at the online checkout (T&Cs apply). Make Snowstorm part of your Christmas! W: www.snow-storm.co.uk
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Book for CHRISTMAS
Bolton’s biggest ever pantomime, Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs at Bolton Albert Halls TUESDAY 1ST – THURSDAY 31ST DECEMBER Join beautiful Snow White and her seven little friends as they battle the evil Wicked Queen, who is overcome with jealousy when her Magic Mirror declares Snow White the fairest in all the land. Will Snow White meet her handsome Prince and live happily ever after? Packed with great songs, dazzling dance routines, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes, hilarious comedy and amazing special effects, this magical pantomime promises unforgettable fun for the whole family. Book now for the fairest pantomime in all the land! W: www.alberthalls-bolton.co.uk
Cinderella at Middleton Arena THURSDAY 26TH NOVEMBER – MONDAY 28TH DECEMBER This Christmas you’re invited to the biggest pantomime of all at Middleton Arena! Starring Strictly Come Dancing’s Amy Dowden, this magical fairytale for all the family features dazzling dance routines, a live band, stunning scenery and amazing special effects!
Say you saw it in Primary Times
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Cinderella has always dreamed of leaving her dull life as a servant to meet a handsome prince, and when Prince Charming announces a royal ball, it seems she may get her chance! But with the Ugly Sisters around, who knows what will happen… Don’t miss this unforgettable experience for adults and children alike! Tickets from £17.33. W: www.yourtrustrochdale.co.uk
OCTOBER HALF TERM 2026 15
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