Watch behind-the-scenes timelapse footage as Manchester Arndale gets its Christmas makeover

Timelapse and drone footage shows the work that went into getting Manchester Arndale ready for Christmas. 

Working against the clock, Santa’s helpers spent more than 30 hours across four nights to install the centre’s decorations. Working up to 65ft high, the hard graft means you’ll now find Santa’s 16ft sleigh soaring though the starry night sky, in between iridescent stars, towards a 22ft Christmas tree chandelier. 

Visitors arriving at the Exchange Square entrance will also be greeted by leaping reindeer and a 26ft gold Christmas tree structure, decorated in lilac, yellow, blue, green and pink tones.   

Manchester Arndale’s centre director David Allinson said: “Manchester Arndale is at the heart of the city and our main entrance, just across the road from the Christmas Markets in Exchange Square, is a focal point at Christmas. We wanted to create a bright and colourful scheme that would be eye-catching and make perfect pictures for those visiting us this season. We hope it is enjoyed by all.”  

Watch the video of the work that went into the decorations above.