Lightopia Manchester
Heaton Park
Until Monday, January 3
Lightopia Presents: A Christmas Fantasy is on at Heaton Park, back for a third year to charm families with its array of lanterns and twinkling lights.
Wander through the illuminated trail featuring magical installations, which tell the story of a fantasy festive world.
The Lakeside Water Show – a dazzling light and laser projection on the park’s boating lake – is a must-see delight as Father Christmas seemingly appears from the water and flies off on his sleigh.
Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, there are understandably fewer interactive displays than when Lightopia launched back in the very different time that was 2019.
But one exception is the delightful Earth Flower, which is said to represent our planet. With 10 musical drums guarding it, visitors can drum away to give light to the flower with musical energy.
The light-up tunnel (pictured below) provides the perfect picture opportunity but be prepared to queue for a short time while groups snap Instagram-worthy selfies.
Other highlights include the Fantasy Forest which is home to shining, mystical creatures while Dragon’s Land features two huge 40m dragons taking over the park’s grassy banks.
New for 2021 is the Dine in the Light experience - 10 dining domes serving up a three-course meal for £38 per person (must be prebooked).
Thinking of visiting? Everything you need to know:
- Lightopia Presents: A Christmas Fantasy is on at Heaton Park until January 3, 2022
- Lightopia is open every, except for Christmas Day, between 5pm and 10pm. Last entry is 8.30pm
- Advance tickets are priced at £20 for adults (or £22 on the day), £13 for children (or £15 on the day), and £60 for families of two adults and two children (£68 on the day). Children under three can go free
- Reduced price tickets may be available on websites such as Groupon and Wowcher
- Food and drink are available to buy and car parking costs £5 in advance
- There is a children’s fairground with most rides costing £2.50 per person
- Expect to spend around two hours at the attraction
- For more information, visit www.lightopiafestival.com
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