Halloween in the City: Giant monsters, music festival and parade returning to Manchester this October

Giant monsters will once again be invading Manchester as part of the Halloween in the City celebrations this October half term.

The inflatable monsters, designed by artists Filthy Luker and Pedro Estrellas, will be appearing on some of the city centre landmarks from Wednesday 25 to Tuesday 31 October, coinciding with a program of free, family-friendly events on 28-29 October.

Some of the old favourite monsters will be returning for 2023 and there will also be new creations. Together, the monsters form an art trail through the city and, as in previous years, they will be found on Manchester Arndale, Selfridges, Harvey Nichols, Corn Exchange, The Royal Exchange Manchester, New Century Hall and the AO Arena. For the first time this year, there will also be a monster at the Castlefield Viaduct.

And the Halloween transformation of the city centre does not end there. Thousands of pumpkins will also be hung up throughout the city and at night time several buildings will be illuminated green.

The Scare Skate ice rink will also be coming back to Cathedral Gardens. Entrance fees will apply.

Halloween in the City has been organised by Manchester City Centre Business Improvement District, on behalf of city centre retailers, restaurants, and businesses.

Free Halloween events

There will also be several free events on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 October, including the return of the Monsters Rock! music festival. Live bands, DJs and circus acts will be performing across four stages at New Cathedral Street, St Ann’s Square, Market Street and Exchange Square. There will also be plenty of rides to enjoy and even the portaloos will feature a monster or two.

As well as the music festival, there will also be a Monsters Rock Out parade, curated by local carnival arts specialists Walk the Plank. It will feature giant puppet monsters, stilt walkers and a live band. You’ll be able to find them dancing through the Manchester Arndale and Market Street.

Visitors to the city centre young and old are encouraged to come in their best Halloween costumes and take part in the fun games as part of the Team Trick v Team Treat challenge. All you have to do is pick a wristband, choose a side and win points for your team. The winning team will be announced on the main stage at 4pm each day.