Whats On In March In Manchester For Kids and Families – 2026 Guide
March marks the first of the Spring months and hopefully milder weather. It’s also a month full of great events throughout Manchester.
From lambing events and the chance to meet spring animals to Mother’s Day events, National Lottery Week and lots more, there are lots of family-friendly things to do across Manchester, Greater Manchester and beyond.
To help you find the perfect events for your family, we have rounded up our top picks for March 2026 with both inside and outside options.
International Women’s Day Events
Sunday 8th March 2026
To celebrate International Women’s Day, there are some great family-friendly events across Manchester.
International Women’s Day at Z-arts
Friday 6th and Saturday 7th March 2026
Z-arts is celebrating International Women’s Day with 2 fun events
Storytime – International Women’s Day Special – Friday 6th March
Enjoy a joyful 30-minute session filled with stories, songs and bubbles!
Aimed at toddlers and their grown-ups, it invites families to cuddle up, join in, and celebrate the amazing women and girls who shape our world.
The class is free and will run at 10.00 am and 11.30 am, and booking is required.
International Women’s Day Family Art Stars – Saturday 7th March
Get creative to celebrate International Women’s Day 2026!
Join textile artist Jessie as she leads a hands-on placard-making workshop where families can design and create their own bold, colourful banners using printmaking techniques.
Free, but booking is required
More >>> International Women’s Day at Z-arts
International Women’s Day Crafts at Co-Operative Heritage Trust
Saturday 7th March 2026
Head to Learning Loft at the Pioneers Museum to take part in a craft activity for families to mark this year’s International Women’s Day.
Make postcards to send to any and all women that you admire, past and present, inspired by the banners from the Women’s Guild.
The event will run from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm.
Children are always free, but for this session, accompanying adults do not need to pay the museum entry fee.
More >>> International Women’s Day Crafts at Co-Operative Heritage Trust
St Patrick’s Day Parade Manchester
Sunday 15th March 2026
This year, Patrick’s Day falls on a Monday; however, most of the celebrations in Manchester City will be happening on Sunday, 15th March 2026, including the parade.
The parade will depart from the Irish World Heritage Centre at approximately 12.00 pm and make its way down to the finishing point on Deansgate.
This year’s parade will be an incredible celebration of the proud and thriving Irish community in Manchester.
More >>> St Patrick’s Day Parade Manchester
National Lottery Open Week
Saturday 7th to Sunday 15th March 2026
This year, the National Lottery Open Week will run from Saturday 7th to Sunday 15th March 2026 and allows you to enter a whole host of museums, heritage sites and more for free or at a minimal cost.
To make the most of this great offer, all you need is a valid lottery ticket or scratch card, and terms and conditions do apply.
National Lottery Open Week in and around Greater Manchester
- Science and Industry Museum Manchester – 7th to 15th March 2026- 10% off at the gift shop
- Home – 7th to 15th March 2026 – Free Popcorn at their cinema screenings
- Lyme NT, 7th to 14th March 2026 – Free entry
- Dunham Massey NT, 7th to 14th March 2026 – Free entry
- Co-op Heritage Trust Rochdale Pioneers Museum – 7th March 2026 – Free Afternoon Craft Session
- Greater Manchester Police Museum – 10th March 2026 – Museum Open Day
- Chetham’s School Of Music – 14th March – Free Behind The Scenes Tour
- Greater Manchester Police Museum – 12th March 2026 – Guided Tours
Free Special Film Previews of Amelie
Escapes invites you to sit back, relax, and escape to the magic of the big screen with this award-winning and much-loved classic, Amelie.
The free screenings are available at the following Greater Manchester Cinemas:
- Omniplex Wigan – 9th March 2026
- The Light Bolton – 9th March 2026
- Home, Manchester – 9th March 2026
- Curzon Knutsford – 9th March 2026
National Lottery Open Week in the Northwest.
If you are happy to have a drive out of Greater Manchester, here are all the places taking part in the Northwest:
- Hare Hill NT, 7th to 8th and 11th to 14th March 2026, Free entry
- Seaton Delaval Hall NT, 7th to 8th and 11th to 14th March 2026, Free entry
- Towend NT, 10th to 12th March 2026, Free Entry
- Speke Hall NT, 7th to 14th March 2026, free entry
- Allan Bank NT, 9th to 11th and 14th March 2026, Free entry
- Rufford Old Hall NT, 7th to 8th and 13th to 14th March 2026, Free entry
- Acorn Bank, NT 7th to 8th and 14th March 2026, Free Entry
- Keswick Museum, 7th to 15th March 2026, free entry
- RSPB Leighton Moss Nature Reserve, 7th to 14th March 2026, free entry
- Wordsworth Grasmere, 7th and 10th to 15th March 2026, Free entry
- Carlisle Castle, 7th to 8th and 14th to 15th March 2026, free entry
- Catalyst Museum, 7th to 8th March 2026, free entry
- Burton Mere Wetlands, 11th to 15th March 2026, free entry
- Brindle Cold War Bunker, 15th March 2026, free entry
- Pooles Carvern and Buxton Country Park, 7th to 15th March 2026, 50% off entry
Please note that each event has its own terms and conditions, and some require booking.
More >>> National Lottery Open Week
Mother’s Day Weekend
Saturday 14th to Sunday 15th March 2026
This year Mother’s Day falls on Sunday, 15th March and there are lots of events happening throughout Manchester to help you have a great day out with your mum.
Check them out >>> What’s On Mother’s Day Weekend In Manchester
Indoor Things To Do This March In Manchester
Although we will all be hoping that March will bring warmer spring weather, we all know that by living in Manchester, there will be a good chance of rain.
Here are some great indoor events to entertain the kids whilst staying dry!
Bubble Planet Manchester, Depot Mayfield
To Monday 31st August 2026
Continuing into March, you can enter a bubble-filled world at Bubble Planet Manchester in Depot Mayfield!
This immersive family experience is packed with colourful themed rooms, giant bubbles, glowing lights and interactive installations that spark imagination for children and adults alike.
Wander through ten fantastical worlds, explore the calming Bubble Ocean, try the mind-bending Infinity Room, and enjoy playful sensory surprises around every corner. Perfect for little adventurers and grown-ups who love a splash of fun!
Tickets from £17.90. Suitable for all ages (children under 17 must be with an adult, under 2s free). Sessions last around 60–90 minutes.
To book >>> Bubble Planet Manchester, Depot Mayfield
Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos, Science and Industry Museum, Manchester
To Sunday 3rd January 2027
This March you can go on a fun adventure with Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos at the Science and Industry Museum!
Explore space-themed zones, take part in hands-on experiments, and challenge your scientific wits while dodging the schemes of Dr Big Brain.
From dancing on alien disco planets to investigating far-off worlds, this playful, interactive exhibition brings the hit Horrible Science series to life for curious minds of all ages.
Tickets £10 per child or adult, children aged 3 and under free. Families and small groups get £1 off per ticket. Suitable for children aged 7+ (younger children can enjoy highlights).
To book >>> Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos, Science and Industry Museum, Manchester
Jurassic Seas, SEA LIFE Manchester
Sunday 1st March 2026
Enjoy the last day to travel back millions of years at *Jurassic Seas*, the exciting seasonal trail at SEA LIFE Manchester!
Explore deep-sea wonders and prehistoric oceans with a fun Jurassic challenge trail, uncover fossils, meet and greet a baby Triceratops, test your marine knowledge and snap plenty of photos along the way.
Alongside the trail, you can also explore the amazing aquarium full of turtles, sharks, rays and more – a brilliant day out for curious families ready to dive into prehistoric and modern ocean life.
Tickets from around standard SEA LIFE admission prices; under 2s go free, ideal for families and all ages
To book >>> Jurassic Seas, SEA LIFE Manchester
Trainmaster Sessions
Sunday 8th March 2026
Trainmaster offers fun sessions with play trains, lots of tracks to build, ride on trains, fancy dress and lots more.
Over March, they will be running the following sessions in Greater Manchester:
- Saturday 7th March, Worsley, 2.00 pm to 3.30 pm
Sessions last for 60 minutes and cost £9.50 per child and include 2 accompanying adults.
More >>> Trainmaster Manchester
Dunham Massey — Winter Family Trail With Speechly the Pineapple (Indoors)
Ongoing to 8th March 2026
Still running into February, families can enjoy a family-friendly trail aimed at younger children that mixes simple storytelling with nature exploration.
Follow a map or trail sheet to meet Speechly (a friendly character), collect stamps and discover seasonal surprises dotted around the parkland and gardens.
More >>> Winter Family Trail With Speechly the Pineapple, Dunham Massey
Adventures in Wonderland, Z-arts Manchester
Ongoing until 11th April 2026
The immersive, interactive play experience for families at Z-arts is continuing into February, allowing children to tumble down the rabbit hole and explore the magical world of Wonderland.
Follow the White Rabbit, splash into the pool of tears, meet the Cheshire Cat, play croquet with flamingos, get lost in a giant card maze and join the Mad Hatter’s tea party as you make your own adventure through this vibrant story-inspired space.
Designed especially for curious young explorers, there are tunnels, sensory zones, interactive games and plenty of photo opportunities — dressing up is encouraged and part of the fun.
Tickets from £12 with family offers available. Ideal for children aged 1–8 and their grown-ups.
More >>> Adventures in Wonderland, Z-arts Manchester
African Drumming & Storytelling Workshop, The Coliseum Theatre
Saturday 14th March 2026
Join acclaimed performer Oluwasegun Lafup‑Ogundipe at The Coliseum Theatre for a hands‑on **African Drumming & Storytelling Workshop** that brings beats, rhythm and culture to life! Participants of all ages can take part in rhythmic drumming sessions and hear powerful stories rooted in West African tradition, creating an immersive experience that’s ideal for families, teens and anyone who loves music and movement. No previous experience is required — just bring your enthusiasm and ready hands.
Tickets from £15. Perfect for families, teens and music lovers – the event runs at 2.00 pm
To book >>> African Drumming & Storytelling Workshop, The Coliseum Theatre
Cotton Stories Exhibition, Quarry Bank
Saturday 15th February to Sunday 1 September 2025
Explore the stories of the past, present and future of the cotton textile industry in the North West and the world.
The event is suitable for children of all ages and will be running from 10.30 am to 5.00 pm each day.
The event is free, but normal admission prices apply.
More >>> Cotton Stories Exhibition, Quarry Bank
Slides, Inflatables and Fun Swimming Sessions at Tameside Pools
Weekends Throughout March
A trip to the swimming pool makes a great treat, and Tameside pools have some extra fun in store.
Kids and adults alike can enjoy fun sessions with toys, inflatable and even slides at their Swim, Slides and Waves at Hyde Leisure.
Times and More >>> Slides, Inflatables and Fun Swimming Sessions at Tameside Pools
March Outdoor Events In Manchester
If we are treated to dry and bright spring days over March, there are lots of fun events for all the family to get some fresh air and stretch their legs.
Barnyard Baby Bash, Cockfields Farm Park
Sunday 1st March 2026
Enjoy the last day of Barnyard Baby Bash at Cockfields Farm Park — a fluffy and fun family event where little ones welcome adorable newborn lambs, chicks and piglets! Meet the farmers for friendly talks, take part in a bottle-feeding demonstration and enjoy “Learn to be a Farmer” activities in the maternity ward.
Cuddle extra-soft new arrivals, handle gentle reptiles, and let kids run around on the outdoor play areas, take a ride on the bouncy pillow and carousel, and feed the farm animals throughout the day.
Tickets from around £7.95 for adults and children, with under-1s tickets also available. Perfect for families and children of all ages.
To book >>> Barnyard Baby Bash, Cockfields Farm Park
The Wind in the Willows Trail, RHS Garden Bridgewater
To 31st December 2026
If the weather is kind this March, enjoy a nature-filled family day out at RHS Garden Bridgewater with The Wind in the Willows Trail! Explore the beautiful gardens and follow a hands-on adventure inspired by the beloved story of Mole, Ratty, Badger and Toad.
Young visitors can enjoy themed activities, discover hidden creatures along the garden paths, and take part in creative tasks as they wander through the stunning outdoor spaces together. It’s a lovely mix of story, exploration and green-space fun for families during February half-term.
Garden admission applies; tickets for adults and children are available. A great choice for families and younger visitors.
To book >>> The Wind in the Willows Trail, RHS Garden Bridgewater
Speechly’s Sensory Trail
Until Sunday 9th March 2025
Head to the Dunham Massey gardens and explore the senses with Speechly the Pineapple’s latest winter trail.
Follow the fun pineapple pal as he ventures out of the House and into the formal gardens to look for seasonal changes using the five senses to explore and discover. The event is aimed at under 10s but can be enjoyed by any age.
More >>> Speechly’s Sensory Trail at Dunham Massey
World Book Day at Cockfields Farm
Saturday 7th to Sunday 8th March 2026
Cockfields Farm will be running a fun World Book Day event this March.
The event will include all the farm’s usual activities, including animal handling, indoor and outdoor play and lots more.
It’s running midweek, especially for toddlers and weekends.
Plus, kids go free midweek term-time.
More >>> World Book Day at Cockfields Farm
Bloomtown Blossom Trail & Launch Event, Manchester Parks
From Saturday 21st March 2026
Celebrate the arrival of spring with the Bloomtown Blossom Trail across Manchester’s parks. Families can follow blossom trails through Heaton Park, Platt Fields, Alexandra Park and Wythenshawe Park, or head to the free launch event at Heaton Park featuring storytelling, creative workshops and nature-inspired activities.
Free family event and trail, suitable for all ages.
More >>> Bloomtown Manchester Blossom Trail
Daisy Nook Easter Fun Fair
Saturday 28th to Sunday 12th April 2028
The annual fun fair is heading back to Daisy Nook for Easter.
The Silcocks fun fair will have a range of rides for all ages and will be free entry.
More >>> Daisy Nook Easter Fun Fair
Free and Cheap March Events In Manchester
You don’t have to spend a fortune to entertain the kids this Spring, there are lots of fun events that are free or for a small amount, suitable for all the family.
Make sure also to check out >>> Cheap and Free Things To Do In Manchester
Triceratops: Eat, Roam, Repeat, Manchester Museum
Until Sunday 1st March 2026
The free exhibition Triceratops: Eat, Roam, Repeat has been extended until 1st March 2026.
Explore the iconic dinosaur’s anatomy, learn how it lived and survived, and uncover hands-on interactive elements, including a digital touch replica of the Triceratops skull and fossil digs — perfect for curious junior palaeontologists and adults alike.
It is free, but booking is required.
More >>> Triceratops: Eat, Roam, Repeat Manchester Museum
Discover >>> Top Tip For Visiting Manchester Museum
Free Colour Trail, IKEA Manchester
Sunday 1st March 2026
Enjoy the last day of the IKEA Manchester GREJSIMOJS Colour Trail!
Step into a world of colour, creativity and fun as this vibrant trail celebrates the launch of IKEA’s new GREJSIMOJS collection — a playful range of homewares designed to spark imagination and bring joy to everyday life.
They also offer kids’ meals from 95p and have a different adult meal on offer each weekday. – see here for more >>> kids eat free offers.
Free entry, great for all ages
To book >>> Free Colour Trail, IKEA Manchester
Spies, Lies and Deception, IWM North
ongoing until 31st August 2026
Step into a world of secrets and intrigue at IWM North with Spies, Lies and Deception. This free exhibition reveals how deception has shaped history, showing real espionage stories, hidden messages and clever ruses used in wartime. Discover gadgets, disguises, coded documents and personal stories from spies past and present, then test your observational skills on the top-secret exhibition trail designed for young recruits and curious visitors alike.
Free to attend. Great for families and teens with an interest in history and mystery.
More >>> Spies, Lies and Deception, IWM North
Find the Flock – Shaun the Sheep Trail, Bury Town Centre
Saturday 28th February to Thursday 30th April 2026
Shaun the Sheep is heading to Bury this spring for a baaa-rilliant FREE family sculpture trail!
Find the Flock invites families to discover 12 uniquely designed Shaun the Sheep sculptures hidden across venues in Bury town centre.
Each colourful sheep has been created by a national or international artist, giving you plenty of reasons to explore, snap photos and enjoy a fun day out together.
Free. Suitable for all ages. Open daily 10.00 am to 4.00 pm (opening times may vary by venue, so check ahead before visiting).
To explore, >>> Find the Flock – Shaun the Sheep Trail, Bury Town Centre
Free Colour Trail, IKEA Manchester
Sunday 1st March 2026
Enjoy the last day of the IKEA Manchester GREJSIMOJS Colour Trail!
Step into a world of colour, creativity and fun as this vibrant trail celebrates the launch of IKEA’s new GREJSIMOJS collection — a playful range of homewares designed to spark imagination and bring joy to everyday life.
They also offer kids’ meals from 95p and have a different adult meal on offer each weekday. – see here for more >>> kids eat free offers.
Free entry, great for all ages
To book >>> Free Colour Trail, IKEA Manchester
Spring Trail, Heaton Park
Sunday 1st March to Sunday 31st May 2026
Pick up a free trail map from Reception (by the Stables Cafe) and follow our family-friendly Spring Trail! This short walk takes you through scenic areas of the Park in search of fun spring characters.
More >>> Spring Trail Heaton Park
World Book Day Comics Day, Ashton Library
Thursday 5th March 2026
Running from 4.00 pm to 5.30 pm, you can collect your World Book Day book and take part in comic art draw-along with cartoonist Marc Jackson (BEANO, PHOENIX).
Fancy dress encouraged. No need to book – but arrive promptly to guarantee your place.
More >>> World Book Day Comics Day, Ashton Library
World Book Day, Creative Christie for Kids, Cheadle Library
Thursday 5th March 2026
Get your detective hat ready and join in a World Book Day for a fun activity session to celebrate author Agatha Christie and her connection to Cheadle.
Practise your mystery-solving skills, create your own detective story and more. We’ll have activities suitable for the whole family.
The event is free and will run 4.00 pm to 5.00 pm
More >>> World Book Day, Creative Christie for Kids, Cheadle Library
SciTech Takeover, Portland Basin
Saturday 7th March 2026
SciTech is returning to Portland Basin Museum for a fantastic hands‑on takeover of the Industrial Gallery as part of British Science Week 2026!
Great for the whole family to explore, experiment, and get hands‑on with science that will amaze, delight, and inspire budding scientists of all ages!
The event is free, drop-in and will run from 11.00 am to 3.00 pm
More >>> SciTech Takeover, Portland Basin
FunLab – Trafford Centre Takeover for British Science Week
Saturday 7th March and Sunday 8th March 2026
FunLab is taking over the Trafford Centre to launch British Science Week with a full weekend of FREE hands-on science and engineering fun for families.
Hosted by the Faculty of Science and Engineering at The University of Manchester, this action-packed event invites children to explore, experiment and discover through interactive zones across the centre.
Highlights include:
The Dinosaur Zone
Outside Vodafone
Families can handle real fossils, see a replica Gorgosaurus skeleton and meet leading palaeontologist Professor Phil Manning.
Over in the Robot Zone
Main Dome & Orient Way
Kids can meet a Robot Dog, programme mini bots and learn how robots help keep humans safe.
Science At The Orient
The Orient
Young aviators can try the Flight Simulator( 7 years +), alongside hands-on chemistry experiments, physics activities, games and creative science challenges.
Roaming Science Buskers
Keep an eye out for roaming Science Buskers bringing mini demos and surprise experiments throughout the weekend.
Free. Suitable for all ages
To find out more >>> FunLab Trafford Centre Takeover for British Science Week
March Art Club, Gallery Oldham
Saturday 7th March 2026
Young people aged 10 to 16 years can work with a different material, technique or artist each session.
All of the materials are provided, and anything they make, they can keep.
It will run from 1.30 pm to 3.30 pm
More >>> March Art Club, Gallery Oldham
Free Build a LEGO Star Wars Lightsaber, LEGO Store Trafford Centre
Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th March 2026
Head to the LEGO Store at the Trafford Centre and build a free LEGO Lightsaber to take home.
The event will run:
- 07th March – 10:00 am to 12:00 noon
- 08th March – 12:00 noon to 14:00 pm
There will be a limited quantity available on each day, and it is one per person.
This activity is intended for children aged 10+ and may not be suitable for children under 10.
More >>> Free Build a LEGO Star Wars Lightsaber, LEGO Store Trafford Centre
Family Saturdays, Octagon Bolton
Saturdays 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th March 2026
Spring into March with Family Saturdays!
Little storytellers and their grown-ups can dive into a world of fun, with magical stories, creative crafts and playful activities that will have everyone laughing. Don’t forget the healthy snack at the end — perfect for refuelling tiny adventurers before heading home!
March sessions – 9:45 am (ages 3‑5 and their grown-ups) & 11:30 am (ages 5‑7 and their grown-ups).
Free, but booking is essential.
To book >>> Family Saturdays, Octagon Bolton
Outdoor Art Club, The Whitworth, Manchester
Saturday 21st March 2026
Join The Whitworth for its fun Outdoor Art Club.
You will splash around in water play, paint with mud, and make potions as you move around the different creative stations. It is all outside, and go ahead, rain or shine – so be prepared for the weather
It is free and drop-in and will run from 10.30 am to 2.30 pm.
More >>> Outdoor Art Club The Whitworth Manchester
Litter Picking Disco Party, Heaton Park
Sunday 22 March 2026
Kids over 6 years can enjoy party games to music while picking up litter from around the park as part of the Great British Spring Clean.
Meet in the Stables Courtyard at Heaton Park at 11.00 am for 11.15 am start (ends approx 12.00 pm).
Free and no booking necessary. Litter picking equipment provided (please wear appropriate outdoor clothes/footwear and gloves).
More >>> Litter Picking Disco Party, Heaton Park
Digital Festival 2026, Oldham Library
28th March 2026
Celebrate all things digital with Oldham Library’s Digital Festival and Peshkar‘s Young Digitals Festival!
Activities will include:
- Make Play Code for families
- Lego Prime for older children, young people and families
- Digital Art Workshops for young people
More >>> Digital Festival 2025, Oldham Library
Family Activities at The People’s History Museum, Manchester
All Month
The People’s History Museum will be running lots of family activities over March.
At the People’s History Museum, families can enjoy:
- Banner Bingo – suitable for over 5’s is free, and there is a small prize at the end.
More >>> Families at People’s History Museum
£2.00 Family Films, Cineworld Ashton Under Lyne
Weekends In February
Enjoy a weekend trip to the cinema without breaking the bank with the £2.00 Family Films at Cineworld Ashton.
Films and tickets are usually released on Tuesdays.
Read More >>> £2.00 Family Films at Cineworld Ashton
Family Shows In March, Manchester
A trip to see a show or a concert is a great way to spend time with the family, and there are lots of great options available throughout March in Manchester.
Circus Funtasia, Wythenshawe Park
Sunday 1st March February 2026
Enjoy the last day of Circus Funtasia at Wythenshawe Park.
You can expect motorbike stunts, fire tricks, acrobatics and lots and laughs.
Tickets are on sale now.
Read More >>> Circus Funtasia at Wythenshawe Park
Mean Girls, Opera House, Manchester
Monday 23rd February to Saturday 7th March 2026
Catch the smash-hit musical *Mean Girls* at Opera House Manchester, direct from the West End!
Based on the iconic film comedy, this high-energy show is packed with sharp humour, catchy songs and teen-centric storytelling that perfectly captures the chaos of high school life.
It’s a brilliant night out for older kids, teens and anyone who loves clever, character-driven musical theatre.
Tickets from £29. Great for teens and families who enjoy musicals.
To book >>> Mean Girls, Opera House, Manchester
Justin Live – Justin Time to Rock, Stockport Plaza
Sunday 1st March 2026
Get ready to rock with *Justin Live – Justin Time to Rock* at Stockport Plaza, a high‑energy family theatre show starring beloved children’s entertainer Justin Fletcher. Known from hit TV programmes like Something Special, Justin and his friends are putting together the ultimate rock band, and they need your help to pick the best songs to sing and dance to.
Packed with catchy tunes, lively dancing and plenty of laughs, this all‑singing, all‑dancing performance is perfect for kids and families who love music and fun.
Tickets cost about £22 for children and £24 for adults. A brilliant choice for families and children of all ages.
To book >>> Justin Live – Justin Time to Rock, Stockport Plaza
Mamma Mia!, Palace Theatre Manchester
Tuesday 3rd to Saturday 21st March 2026
Get ready for *Mamma Mia!* at Palace Theatre Manchester, the feel-good musical that’s packed with timeless songs from ABBA. Set on a sunny Greek island, the story follows Sophie as she plans her wedding and secretly invites three men from her mother’s past in a bid to discover which one is her real dad.
With dancing, laughter and all your favourite hits including “Dancing Queen,” “Mamma Mia” and “Take a Chance on Me,” this uplifting show is a brilliant night out for families, teens and anyone who loves big-stage musical theatre.
Tickets from £19.50. Great for families and ages 5 and up.
To book >>> Mamma Mia!, Palace Theatre Manchester
Showstopper! The Kids Show, The Lowry Salford
Saturday 7th March 2026
Let your children’s imaginations take centre stage with *Showstopper! The Kids Show* at The Lowry! This uproariously fun improvised musical invites kids to shout out ideas and watch as a brand-new story is created on the spot — anything from magical kingdoms to superhero mash-ups.
The talented cast from The Showstoppers use audience suggestions from kids only to spin hilarious scenes and catchy songs, making every performance unique and full of laughter, music and joyful surprises.
Tickets from £24.50. Ideal for families and children aged 5 and up.
To book >>> Showstopper! The Kids Show, The Lowry Salford
Box Of Tales, HOME Manchester
Saturday 7th March 2026
Join the magical world of *Box Of Tales* at HOME Manchester, where world-famous explorer Professor Jigget has collected stories from far and wide and squeezed them into one big box of adventure. Inside you’ll find mythical creatures, fairy tales and legendary fun from folklore across the globe. Along the way, the audience must sing, dance and help keep the Professor on track in this interactive, playful theatre experience full of puppetry, storytelling and imaginative antics.
Tickets from £12. A brilliant pick for families and children aged 5 to 12.
To book >>> Box Of Tales, HOME Manchester
The Magic Bookmark, Hyde Little Theatre
Sunday 8th March 2026
An award-winning family pantomime packed with magic, music and important messages is coming to Hyde Little Theatre this March as part of World Book Week!
The Magic Bookmark, created by storyteller and pantomime dame Mama G, is a joyful, hour-long storytelling pantomime for audiences of all ages. Follow Mama G as she goes on a magical adventure to stop an evil bookworm who wants every book in the world to be about worms. With the help of a magical bookmark, Mama G searches for three special books to show why everyone deserves to be represented in stories.
True to pantomime tradition, audiences can expect silliness, singing, dancing, call-and-response moments and a touch of magic. The show is designed to be accessible for younger children while still entertaining adults. Before and after each performance, local favourite GET Free Books Shop Hyde will host a pop-up stall, giving children the chance to take home a free book.
Performances: 1:00pm and 3:00pm on Sunday 8th March 2026. Suitable for families and children of all ages and tickets cost £13.50.
To book >>> The Magic Bookmark, Hyde Little Theatre
We Are Family: Six Kids and a Super Dad, Waterside Arts Sale
8th March 2026
Laugh along with *We Are Family: Six Kids and a Super Dad* at Waterside Arts Sale, a heartwarming and hilarious theatre show that celebrates family life with six energetic children and their devoted dad. Expect lively storytelling, playful scenes and plenty of relatable moments as this big family juggles chores, chaos and love in a performance full of warmth and humour.
It’s a brilliant pick for families and older kids who enjoy fun, character-driven theatre with a big dose of heart.
Tickets from £14.50. Suitable for families and children aged 6 and up.
To book >>> We Are Family: Six Kids and a Super Dad, Waterside Arts Sale
A Big Egg, The Lowry Salford
Sunday 8th March 2026
Join *A Big Egg* at The Lowry for a magical family musical based on the beloved picture book! Follow Jack and his sister Molly on a joyful journey to discover how life begins and grows, bringing playful puppetry, live action and beautiful animation together on stage. This gentle, interactive show invites little ones and grown-ups alike to explore curiosity, wonder and the beauty of new beginnings.
Performances at 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm. Tickets from £12.
To book >>> A Big Egg, The Lowry Salford
Ìloyá – Let the Journey Begin, The Coliseum Theatre
Thursday 19th March 2026
Experience *Ìloyá – Let the Journey Begin* at The Coliseum Theatre, a powerful and engaging live performance that explores personal and cultural journeys with energy and heart.
This immersive stage piece blends compelling storytelling with dynamic performance to take audiences on a thoughtful adventure that touches on identity, aspiration and community. It’s a memorable theatre experience for older children, teens and adults looking for something meaningful and bold on stage.
Suitable for families with older kids and teens over 12 years.
To book >>>Ìloyá – Let the Journey Begin, The Coliseum Theatre
The Dinosaur That Pooped, Opera House, Manchester
Sunday 22nd March 2026
Get ready for *The Dinosaur That Pooped* at Opera House Manchester, a hilariously fun family musical based on the best-selling books by Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter. When Danny and Dino’s favourite rock band face their last ever concert, and the last two tickets go missing, chaos ensues! With catchy new songs, laughter, adventure and, of course, plenty of dinosaur poo antics, this lively show is a brilliant pick for young audiences and their grown-ups.
Tickets from £17. Suitable for children aged 3 and up and families.
To book >>> The Dinosaur That Pooped, Opera House, Manchester
Matilda The Musical, Palace Theatre, Manchester
Thursday 26th March to Saturday 25th April 2026
Don’t miss *Matilda The Musical* at Palace Theatre Manchester, the multi-award-winning show based on Roald Dahl’s beloved story of an extraordinary girl with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind. Packed with clever songs by Tim Minchin, brilliant choreography and heartfelt humour, this joyful musical follows Matilda as she stands up to ridiculous grown-ups, discovers her own powers and changes her destiny.
Powerful, playful and inspiring, it’s a brilliant night out for families, teens and anyone who loves first-class musical theatre.
Tickets from £15. Great for ages 6 and up and families.
To book >>> Matilda The Musical, Palace Theatre, Manchester
Tales From Acorn Wood, Middleton Arena
Saturday 28th March 2026
Step into the beloved world of *Acorn Wood* at Middleton Arena where Fox, Rabbit, Pig, Hen and Postman Bear come to life in a playful family stage show.
Follow these friendly characters through a series of delightful adventures filled with toe-tapping songs, charming puppetry and lots of audience engagement. It’s a heartwarming and fun theatrical experience that younger children and their grown-ups will adore.
Tickets from around £15. Perfect for families and children.
To book >>> Tales From Acorn Wood, Middleton Arena
Browse >>> What’s On Each Month In Manchester for Kids
More >>> Things To Do In Manchester City Centre For Kids
Discover >>> Free and Cheap Days Out In Manchester
