OK, it might feel like Christmas was just a few days ago, but half term is just around the corner. If you’re looking for ways to entertain the kids this February, look no further.
There’s brand-new adventure trails, museum takeovers and immersive light shows, perfect for kids of all ages.
Here’s the very best things to do this February half term in Manchester…
The Super Duper Family Festival
Manchester is set to be transformed into the ultimate playground for families this February. The perfect free festival for half term, the Super Duper Family Festival will take over the city from Saturday 15 to Tuesday 18 February. Spanning some of Manchester’s most iconic spaces, the festival will feature six unique, immersive play zones – The Carnival, The Garden, The Playground, The Arcade, The Sports Hall and The Party. They will feature everything from a giant hedge maze, a traditional steampunk Victorian carousel, high-energy sports challenges, electrifying gaming, roaming performers, schoolyard games and a family rave party.
Bird Rave at Manchester Museum
Manchester Museum invite families to their Bird Rave this half term, featuring a classic dance soundtrack and captivating performance from the Bird Rave artists. Before taking to the dance floor, guests will have the chance to make their own wings and plumage in one of the creative workshops, running throughout the day. The Bird Rave dancers will perform at 2.15pm and 3.30pm, with a rave dance workshop at 2.45pm. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) will also be there to speak about their feathered friends and run some bird-themed activities during the day.
Guess How Much I Love You™ – A Garden Adventure Trail at RHS Garden Bridgewater
Launching on Saturday 15 February, explore the Guess How Much I Love You™ garden adventure trail at RHS Bridgewater. The perfect activity for half term, the trail invites kids to bounce, hop and stretch like Little Nutbrown Hare and investigate colours, textures and shapes found in the garden. Marking the 30th anniversary of the treasured book, the trail invites little ones to learn about nature, growing and changing seasons.
Junkbots Half Term Takeover at People’s History Museum
Junkbots take over the People’s History Museum this February, just in time for half term. Families are invited to create their own mini makes, inspired by the Deceptioncon robot costume, the latest addition to the museum’s collection. Deceptioncon was created by members of the GMB union and worn symbolically on the picket line by Amazon workers who went on strike in November 2023, because they felt like they were being treated like robots. They were campaigning for better working conditions, fairer pay and union recognition. Once visitors have met Deceptioncon they will be able to have a go at making their own junkbot in the Playful Protest Space and discover stories about the fight for workers’ rights throughout the galleries.
GRIT Studios X Great Northern Warehouse Free Art Trail
GRIT Studios has teamed up with Manchester’s historic Great Northern Warehouse for a new, free art trail. The resident, not-for-profit art studio has collaborated with talented local artists on the ‘Chasing Cheer’ trail, including Caroline Daly, Jenny Leonard, John Cooper, Sophie Macauley, Sally Marshall, Helen Davies, Caroline Blackburn and Michael J Browne. The trail is free to explore and perfect for all the family.
Half term at Museum of Illusions
Perfect for half term fun, Museum of Illusions welcomes all the family for a day of perspective-challenging exhibits. Head down to the museum in the city centre for an immersive experience, with mesmerising installations where everything is not as it seems.
Oxygen Activeplay at Quayside
Head down to Salford Quays for the brand-new Oxygen Activeplay experience, landing at Quayside on 17 February. Perfect for half term, the new play zone invites little ones to bounce their way across 24 epic trampolines, inflatables, and challenge their friends in the interactive strike arena. Whilst older kids can test their skills on the high ropes course, climb obstacles and take part in the indoor aerial Sky Rider.
Half Term Kids Eat free at Kargo.MKT
If you’re looking for a place to take the kids this half term, Kargo. MKT have got you covered. From 12pm to 5pm, Monday to Friday, kids under 12 eat free during school holidays. Just purchase an adult meal from the same kitchen. Available on selected items.
Kids Eat Free at Harvey Nichols
Kids can eat free this half term at The Second Floor, Harvey Nichols in Manchester. When accompanied by an adult dining from the main menu, children 12 and under can choose from the Kids Menu and enjoy a complimentary meal. Available 15 February – 23 February (It’s one complimentary kid’s meal per one paying adult, not available with any other offers).
Operation Ouch! Brains, Bogies and You at Science and Industry Museum
Hit BBC Children’s TV show Operation Ouch! bring a brand-new adventure to the Science and Industry Museum this February. Get ready for super-sized science and journey through an ear canal covered in gooey wax, squeeze past sticky snot and plunge headfirst into the incredible world of our senses. Venture through the five familiar senses of touch, sight, hearing, smell and taste, as well as lesser-known secret senses that help you stay balanced, tell you when you need a wee and when it’s time to sleep.
Illuminate Light Night 2025
Illuminate Light Night returns to Oldham for its eighth year, bringing the theme ‘Illuminating the Everyday’ to life. The family-friendly festival will see venues across the town centre lit up with art installations, creative projections, interactive activities and performances by artists from Oldham and beyond. There’s plenty for all ages to get involved with, including lantern making workshops.
Read more:
Skof wins star at the Michelin Awards
The best BYOB in Manchester
SFOTC line up announced
