Free things for families to do in Manchester

Manchester is full of fun all year round. You'll never be short of things to do, both indoors and outdoors. Here are some of the fun activities you and your family can do for free in the city in 2017

• The Manchester Winter Gathering 
  This new event features ice skating, street food stalls, bars, markets, an art gallery and a programme of live music. Find it at Manchester's London Road Fire Station until 8th January 2017.
  
  
• The Donkey Sanctuary
  This centre in Green Fold is closed over Christmas and New Year’s Day, but apart from that it’s open and the donkeys would love to meet you. It's free, but a donation to the sanctuary would be appreciated.
  
  
• Manchester Art Gallery
  The Manchester Art Gallery is hosting one of its regular family fun weekends across the 14th and 15th January 2017. Come and explore, create and have fun with your family. More dates running later in the year.
  
  
• Manchester Museum
  The Manchester Museum at the University of Manchester has an ongoing programme of family friendly events suitable for everyone from under fives to grandparents. Coming up in January are Baby Explorer sessions, Autism-Friendly Early Opening and much more.
  
  
• Museum of Science and Industry
  MOSI always has plenty of fun stuff for families coming up and is a must-visit if you're in Manchester. Events running from now until 8th January focus on the theme of light. There’s something different every day to suit a variety of ages. You can explore painting with light, enjoy a Shadow Theatre Photo Booth or create your own 3D glasses.   

Find out more

• The Donkey Sanctuary, Manchester
• Manchester Art Gallery family weekend
• Manchester Museum events calendar
• Museum of Science and Industry