It’s that time of year again. The ski chalets have been assembled, the twinkly lights brought out of the boxes and and the giant ice rink is back in action.

A staple of Manchester’s festivities at this time of year, Skate Manchester has officially reopened on Cathedral Gardens. It’ll be a firm fixture in the city centre for the next couple of months, running all the way until 1 January, 2025.

The launch also signifies the start of the Manchester Christmas Markets, which officially get underway later this morning. Spread over nine zones, the annual event sees hundreds of thousands of visitors flock to the streets and squares of Manchester.

Bringing a rather early does of festive cheer, families, friends and festive fun seekers can glide across the ice for the ultimate Christmas experience, which includes the return of its gleaming ice path giving skaters the chance to spin around a dazzling seven-metre-tall Christmas tree.

The fully covered outdoor rink means skaters can take to the ice no matter what the weather – which is blessing considering we’re in Manchester. After building up an appetite on the ice, skaters can explore the Christmas Markets nearby for festive food, drinks and seasonal shopping too – from mini pancakes and bratwurst to boozy cocktails and indulgent hot chocolates.

The rink will also offer a variety of skate sessions including dedicated quiet and sensory-friendly sessions designed for a more relaxed environment, along with discounted tickets for wheelchair users. The availability of two-bladed skates will also be increased for those who feel less confident on the ice.

This year’s partnership with Cash for Kids will once again support the Mission Christmas campaign, dedicated to helping disadvantaged children across the UK. To further this cause, a special giving week will be held at the rink from 2–8 December, during which 10% of all ticket sales will be donated directly to Cash for Kids.

Tickets for Skate Manchester have already gone on sale, but you can still book online or head down to the box office which is just outside the rink. Tickets start from £14 for adults and £10 for children, depending on whether you visit at peak or quieter times.

Full prices are as follows: Adults/Teens from £14 (off peak), children (aged between 3 and 12 years old) from £10 (off peak), family ticket from £41 (based on two adults and two children, or one adult and three children). Children’s skate aids are available to hire at the rink for £5 each (subject to terms and conditions).

Skate Manchester opens Friday, 8 November 2024 from 10:30am until Wednesday 1 January 2025 8pm with the last skating session at 19pm. The rink will be closed on Christmas Day.