It may be the evening before the big day, but this city is set to be anything but quiet. Whether you're looking for a cosy pint in a winter yurt, a sumptuous supper to kick off the festivities or a late-night party to celebrate Santa's arrival, this guide has you covered. Check out our lowdown on Christmas Eve in Manchester right here...to all a Merry Christmas, and to all a good night.
Last edited by Lauren Cole
Bringing out delish winter cocktails each year, The Alchemist New York Street, Spinningfields and MediaCity are great for when you want a last-minute bash before the big day itself. Think theatrical serves at the swish bar, or while accompanying a bite to eat.
Revolution Deansgate Locks is the perfect place for some early doors boozing, before heading home to leave Santa a mince pie (or wrap those last-minute presents). Thanks to a capacity of 1100, this place is set to be alive with festive cheer and merriment come the 24th of December.
Salt Dogs in Manchester is an urban bar covered in graffiti and featuring pool tables and bookable spaces - perfect for big groups of friends this Christmas Eve. They pride themselves on their excellent selection of beer, with plenty of cocktails available too, as well as hotdogs if you get hungry.
The Old Wellington is a traditional British boozer located just a stone's throw away from the city's two primary places of worship - the Cathedral and Printworks. Open from 11am till 10pm, this cosy spot is perfect for a hearty lunch or early eve mulled wine, great for a family Christmas Eve in Manchester.
The Oast House will be serving their usual hearty winter-warming grub on rustic platters - the best stomach-lining nosh before the main event. The selection of ales, wines and other beverages are sure to keep you warm too, as you venture out into the huge wintertime teepee.
This laidback cocktail bar is a great place to relax with a couple of pre-Christmas drinks. Project Halcyon Distillery creates their own ever-changing list of concoctions, as well as offering a wide variety of beers and an extensive wine list.
From Crimbo cocktails to three-course set menus, The Anthologist (a.k.a The First Dates restaurant) has everything you need to make your chilled out proceedings festive on the 24th. Expect vegan Wellington, roasted goose breast, chocolate opera cake and more.
Swap out the board games for a high-stakes simulator this Christmas. Point Blank Shooting Manchester allows you to battle your friends at over 200 scenarios, ranging from target practice to hostage situations. Grab a few cocktails while you play, with great pizzas to keep you fuelled.
If you're searching for a sophisticated way to start your Christmas in Manchester for 2024, this adults-only eatery is a great shout. The James Martin Restaurant in Deansgate has a classy urban vibe, serving up seasonal dishes from their constantly rotating menu.
Set your Christmas off with a bang at The Brewers, situated in Manchester's gay village. There'll be cocktails, cabaret and DJs keeping up the festive spirit, and if you want to experience the very early hours of the 25th then this late-night party is perfect for you.
This chilled Northern Quarter cafe has a speakeasy-style bar downstairs, great for sipping on some Christmas Eve cocktails. If you're planning a feast on the 24th, the Foundry Project dishes out juicy burgers and hand-stretched pizzas, while also being a great place for a boogie.
For Christmas Eve parties in Manchester, look no further than a trip to Bierkeller. From the festive Oompah show that's available to book to just settling down with German pints in the decorated beer hall, this place is sure to satisfy.
Of all the restaurants for Christmas Eve in Manchester, Banyan is a firm favourite. That's because there's not only affordable dinners, but festive bottomless brunches to gorge on too - think pigs in blankets-topped eggs, mince pie pancakes and more.
Pre-Theatre Menu | 2 course £23.95 | 3 course £27.95 and 2 other offers
Looking for a delicious Christmas Eve dinner in Manchester? Don Giovanni brings Italian cuisine and a festive menu with pastas, seafood and desserts. For drinks afterwards and during, the gorgeous spot features a choice of artisan cocktails or vintage wines.
Spend the 24th in this pretty pink bar with plush seating and floral decor. Sunset by Australasia boasts a fantastic range of cocktails including prosecco sorbet blends and spritzers, as well as a selection of Japanese-style bites like nigiri and tuna tartare.
Head to the opulent interiors of Grand Pacific the day before the 25th December, where you'll be met with festive afternoon teas and set Christmas menus flaunting a pan-Asian twist. You'll also be able to wash all these down with signature cocktails.
Whether you're into mulled concoctions, eggnog or a glass of brandy (Father Christmas style), nothing says Christmas like cocktails. Come 24th December, Dirty Martini is the perfect place to don your finest festive attire and dance until you hear reindeer hooves on the roof.
Dive bar MOJO has a simple, but effective, brand: late-night hours, NYC styling and a whole host of cocktails. Plus, those rock 'n' roll vibes are here to get the party started, so you'll happily spend Christmas Eve here until they kick out for the night.
Been searching for 'Christmas events near me in 2024' lately? Pop-up festive bar Miracle On Cross Street is bringing beautiful decorations including fairy lights, tinsel, stockings, candy canes and a huge tree to the city, great for a Manchester Christmas party in 2024.
