Pantomimes in Manchester For Families 2026
There’s nothing quite like a pantomime to make Christmas feel truly magical.
From dazzling costumes and laugh-out-loud comedy to sing-along songs and the all-important “It’s behind you!”, a festive trip to the theatre is a tradition many families look forward to all year.
To help you find the perfect panto for your family, we’ve rounded up the very best pantomimes happening across Manchester and Greater Manchester for Christmas 2026.
Whether you’re looking for a big, glitzy production in the city centre or a cosy local panto close to home, there’s something to suit every age, taste and budget.
From the iconic Manchester Panto at the Opera House, to much-loved local favourites in places like Sale, Stockport and Oldham, you’ll find a wonderful mix of classic stories, fresh twists and family-friendly fun.
We’ll be updating this guide as more shows are announced, so do keep checking back as Christmas approaches. Your perfect family panto for 2026 could be just a scroll away.
Discover More >>> Where to see Santa in Manchester 2026
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Manchester Opera House
5th December 2026 – 3rd January 2027
Join Snow White and her Magnificent Seven for a magical Christmas adventure at Manchester Opera House! Packed with comedy, singing, dancing, dazzling costumes, and plenty of audience participation, this festive pantomime is perfect for families, kids, and pantomime fans of all ages. Don’t miss out on the Wicked Queen, magical moments, and all the festive fun.
Performances include matinees and evenings throughout the Christmas season.
To book >>> Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Manchester Opera House
Jack and the Beanstalk, Stockport Plaza
Friday 4th December 2026 – Sunday 3rd January 2027
Get ready for giant fun with Jack and the Beanstalk at Stockport Plaza! This festive pantomime is packed with colourful characters, lively songs, audience participation, and plenty of laughs for the whole family. Fe-fi-fo-fum — kids and adults alike will love this magical, larger-than-life seasonal adventure.
Performances include matinees and evenings throughout the Christmas period. Tickets vary by show and seat, so book early to secure your favourite spots.
To book >>> Jack and the Beanstalk, Stockport Plaza
Panto at Victoria Hall, Bolton
To be confirmed for 2026
Victoria Hall, Bolton
A sparkling family pantomime bringing the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast to life! Watch as Beauty meets the Beast in a story full of courage, friendship, and magic. Expect lively songs, dazzling costumes, slapstick humour, and plenty of audience interaction – boos, cheers, and sing-alongs. With school performances and relaxed shows for younger or sensory-sensitive children, this is a festive treat suitable for the whole family. The cheeky villain, comic sidekicks, and magical sets make this a highlight of the Christmas calendar.
Great for: Families, younger children, and anyone looking for a traditional panto experience.
To book >>> Beauty and the Beast Victoria Hall, Bolton
Panto at The Forum Theatre, Romiley
To be confirmed for 2026
The Forum Theatre, Romiley, Stockport
A magical rendition of Cinderella, complete with sparkling costumes, catchy songs, and playful humour. The evil stepmother and comic sidekicks promise laughs and engagement for all ages, while relaxed performances allow younger or sensory-sensitive children to enjoy the show comfortably. Audience participation is encouraged, so get ready for cheers, boos, and laughter.
Great for: Families, younger children, and first-time panto-goers.
Book >>>Cinderella Romiley Forum
Panto at Contact Theatre, Manchester
To be confirmed for 2026
Contact Theatre, Oxford Road, Manchester M15 6JA
This Christmas, Contact Theatre welcomes a fresh, fun-filled panto with Rumpelstiltskin — from the northern panto specialists at The Big Tiny. Set in the Bavarian town of Lieblingsberg, where love has mysteriously disappeared, the story follows the return of Cupid, trying to help Prince Dierdrick outwit the wicked Rumpelstiltskin and restore love. Expect vibrant sets, fabulous costumes, a local, diverse cast and plenty of audience participation, jokes, songs and festive fun for all ages. There are also relaxed and accessible performances for families who appreciate a gentler pace. 🎄
Great for: Families, children of all ages, anyone who loves a traditional pantomime with modern inclusivity and local spirit.
Panto at Queen Elizabeth Hall, Oldham
To be confirmed for 2026
Queen Elizabeth Hall, Oldham
Enjoy this traditional pantomime with a tale as old as time! Expect a dramatic villain, sparkling costumes, and toe-tapping songs. Plenty of audience participation, comedy moments, and magical effects make it a memorable family night out. Relaxed performances are also available for younger or sensitive audiences.
Great for: Families, children of all ages.
Book >>> Beauty and the Beast – Queen Elizabeth Hall, Oldham
Panto at Waterside Arts, Sale
To be confirmed for 2026
Waterside Arts, Sale
This improvisational panto is a unique festive experience! Tots: A short, interactive show for children 6 and under with songs, jokes, and audience participation. Juniors: A family-friendly version for older children, packed with improvised storylines, music, and comedy. Each performance is unique, making it a fun, unpredictable evening for the whole family.
Great for: Families seeking a creative, interactive pantomime experience.
Book >>> Tots tickets | Book >>> Juniors tickets
Christmas Shows
Freaky Friday – HOME Manchester
Thursday 27th November 2025 to Saturday 10th January 2026
HOME Manchester, Tony Wilson Place
Step into the UK premiere of the musical adaptation of *Freaky Friday*, where a mother and daughter magically swap bodies! This show is packed with contemporary music, witty humour, and chaotic family fun, all wrapped up in a heartwarming story about empathy, understanding, and growing up. Expect energetic performances, lively choreography, and moments that will have the whole family laughing together.
Great for: Children aged 8+, families with older children or teens, and anyone looking for a modern twist on the festive theatre experience.
Book >>> Freaky Friday Home
The Snowman – Live Orchestra Screening
Sunday 30th November 2025
Stockport Town Hall
Enjoy the magic of *The Snowman* on the big screen accompanied by a live orchestra. The music, the animation, and the seasonal atmosphere create a beautiful, calming experience that’s perfect for younger children seeing theatre for the first time. It’s an immersive way to experience a Christmas classic and share a quiet festive moment with your little ones.
Great for: Under-7s, families wanting a gentle Christmas outing.
Book >>> The Snowan Live
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe – The Lowry, Salford
Wednesday 3rd December 2025 to Sunday 11th January 2026
The Lowry, Salford Quays
Step into Narnia this festive season! C.S. Lewis’ beloved story comes to life on stage with magical sets, beautiful storytelling, and immersive effects. Follow Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter as they discover a frozen world under the White Witch’s spell and embark on a thrilling adventure filled with courage, friendship, and wonder. A visually stunning production suitable for children and families who love classic tales brought to life.
Great for: Children 6+, pre-teens, and families wanting a magical theatre experience.
Book >>> The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe
Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas – Waterside Arts, Sale
Thursday 4th December 2025 to Saturday 27th December 2025
Waterside Arts, Sale
Bring the much-loved Father Christmas to life in this festive production inspired by Raymond Briggs’ classic book. Follow Father Christmas as he delivers presents, tends to his reindeer, and navigates a night full of surprises. With live music, charming puppetry, and interactive moments, this show is perfect for toddlers and young children experiencing theatre for the first time.
Great for: Ages 3+, families wanting a cozy, storybook Christmas experience.
Book >>> Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas, Waterside Arts, Sale
Gandeys Snow Storm Wish Ice Show – Trafford Centre, Manchester
Friday 5th December 2025 to Sunday 4th January 2026
Trafford Centre, Manchester
This winter spectacle blends world‑class ice skating and circus‑style performances in a magical, family‑friendly production. Expect dazzling choreography on real ice, jaw‑dropping aerial circus acts, dramatic lighting and special effects, and scenes of wonder that thrill both little ones and adults. With multiple performances daily during weekends and holidays, it’s a big festive outing ideal for families, couples or anyone after a spectacular Christmas show.
Great for: All ages — families, teens, older kids and grown‑ups alike, especially those after a show that’s more than a traditional panto.
Book >>> Gandeys Snow Storm Show
T’was the Gig Before Christmas – Z-arts, Manchester
Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th December 2025, 11:00am & 2:00pm
Z-arts, Hulme, Manchester
A lively, music-filled Christmas show for young children. With singing, dancing, and audience interaction, this short performance captures the festive spirit and encourages kids to sing along and move to the music. A joyous introduction to live theatre for younger audiences, combining story, song, and seasonal fun.
Great for: Ages 3+, families wanting a short, fun, festive outing.
Book >>> T’was the Gig Before Christmas – Z-arts, Manchester
The Enormous Crocodile – The Lowry, Salford
Wednesday 10th December 2025 to Sunday 4th January 2026
The Lowry, Salford Quays
Roald Dahl’s mischievous crocodile comes to life in this lively musical adaptation. Full of puppetry, imaginative sets, and energetic music, the story follows the greedy crocodile as he attempts to eat the other jungle animals – but they outwit him with clever tricks. The show is interactive, funny, and fast-paced, making it a perfect festive outing for children who enjoy adventure and silliness.
Great for: Children 5+, families, and fans of Roald Dahl’s classic stories.
The Snowy Day – Z-arts, Manchester
Friday 12th December to Tuesday 30th December 2025
Z-arts, Hulme, Manchester
A gentle, magical show designed especially for toddlers and preschoolers. Watch as Peter experiences the first snowfall of winter, with music, immersive snowy sets, and interactive moments. Children can explore, play, and even create their own snow-inspired fun during the performance. It’s an enchanting way to introduce little ones to live theatre.
Great for: Ages 1–4, toddlers, first-time theatre-goers.
Book >>> The Snowy Day Z-Arts
Little Bear and the Christmas Lights – The Lowry, Salford
Sunday 28th December 2025 to Sunday 4th January 2026
The Lowry (Aldridge Studio), Salford Quays
Join Little Bear and friends on a heartwarming journey to find the perfect Christmas lights! This gentle, interactive performance features puppetry, live music, and plenty of audience participation. Perfect for toddlers experiencing theatre for the first time, the story encourages exploration, curiosity, and seasonal cheer in a calm, magical environment.
Great for: Under-5s, toddlers, and families seeking a low-key festive outing.
Book >>> Little Bear and the Christmas Lights – The Lowry, Salford
Discover >>> Christmas Light Trails in Manchester
