A magical Twilight Trail will light up Mayfield Park this festive season - secure budget-friendly tickets here

The most magical time of the year is fast approaching.

It is nearly time to reinstate the cosy jumpers, wrap our chilly hands around mugs of hot chocolates and mulled wine, and revel in the transformation of our city under a blanket of twinkling lights.

What better way to embrace the festive season in the city than a captivating light trail through Manchester's very own Mayfield Park, a stone's throw away from the popular watering hole and event space, Freight Island?

Brought to the park for the very first time this year, The Twilight Trail will take visitors on a journey of merriment and wonder, from Friday November 17 until Sunday December 31.

In partnership with Mayfield Park and Freight Island, The Twilight Trail will be the perfect inner-city Christmas destination designed for all ages, from families, couples, groups, and everyone in between.

Visitors are invited to explore the enchanting lighting installations that will take over the 6.5-acre park, and finish the trail at Freight Island where they can indulge in further festive experiences as Winter Island transforms the venue into the UK’s largest heated outdoor and indoor winter festival.

After you've worked up an appetite on The Twilight Trail, chow down on delicious food and drink with Christmas pop-up stalls from Cocoa Cabana, Parmogeddon, Formaggi by Lazy Tony’s, Smoking Coal German BBQ, and a Paulaner Tap Takeover.

A brand-new Grotto will be taking over the Plant Room, which will be transformed into an interactive Visit Santa Experience, The Mezz will be transformed into a cosy Alpine Lodge, and further programming will include curated DJs and selectors, live performances and more.

Finish the trail at Freight Island and indulge in further festive experiences

An unmissable event for city dwellers and workers, the budget-friendly festive destination is also strategically located to be easily accessible by public transport from far and wide.

Just a five-minute walk from Manchester Piccadilly Station, the twinkling trail is close to a variety of easy transport links including trains, trams and buses.

Laura Percy, development director at LandSecU+I, leading the regeneration of Mayfield, said: “The new Twilight Trail promises to be a brilliant addition to both Mayfield Park and the whole of Manchester city centre, complementing the Christmas markets, which are such a popular destination for thousands of visitors every year.”

“We are thrilled to be able to offer our neighbours in Ardwick and Brunswick, particularly families, a large number of complimentary tickets so that as many people as possible can come and enjoy the Trail.”

“The spirit of innovation at Mayfield is long-established and it’s great to see our partners at Freight Island continuing to push the boundaries with this exciting autumn programme.”

Jon Drape from The Twilight Trail said: “We are thrilled to bring a new festive experience to Mayfield Park this year. The Twilight Trail’s unique light installations will completely transform this incredible park.

"We are very proud to be able to deliver such a wonderful experience at an affordable price this year, whether for the family, groups of friends or a date night. Combined with the opportunity to visit the brand-new Winter Island next door we believe Depot Mayfield is set to be an unrivalled Christmas destination in the UK.”