will for the first time see events taking place in two of its most historic city centre squares, and including a fantastic free firework and light spectacular.
For the first time ever Mancunians are being given the pick of two different events to enjoy with their families and friends as the city counts down to the new year, with events being held on both Albert Square and St Peter’s Square.
St Peter’s Square will be the place to be for firework fans with a DJ-led family friendly event hosted by BBC Radio Manchester presenter Joe McGrath, with DJ Jimmy the Gent spinning the tunes.
Expect high spirits and party tunes in the run-up to the traditional midnight countdown, which will be followed on the stroke of twelve by a not-to-be-missed firework and light display off the roof of Manchester’s iconic Central Library building.
The alcohol-free event kicks off at 10 pm with entry into the square through security-controlled entry points around the square with bag searches in operation. Hot drinks and food snacks will be available.
Anyone planning to attend should be aware that it is a standing-room only event and will not be seated.
There will however be a managed designated accessible viewing area located on the Metrolink tram platform closest to Central Library, available on a first-come, first-served basis. The nearest entry point for this area will be on Dickinson Street, next to Anthologist bar.
Over on Albert Square meanwhile New Year revellers will be able to experience all the fun of the fair including Manchester’s giant festive Ferris Wheel – the biggest mobile wheel in the country – alongside an absolute foodie fest, plus seasonal tipples from stalls that have had the crowds packing out the square every day since Manchester’s legendary Christmas markets opened back in November.
With a host of independent craft stalls on the square, as well as selfie spots galore throughout to backdrop the all-important countdown to 2026 for socials, those with a head for heights can swap a view of midnight fireworks for a view instead from the top of the big wheel, of the rooftops of Manchester and beyond as the city and its neighbours bring in the new year.
Open throughout the day as usual on New Year’s Eve, entry into Albert Square will continue to be allowed throughout the evening on a controlled basis using the existing entry points until it reaches capacity. The event will end at 12:30 am.
Those wanting to join in with the celebrations on either Albert Square or St Peter’s Square should note that the number of people on both squares will be strictly controlled and once each space reaches capacity no further entry will be allowed.
There will be no direct walk-through between the two squares. Entry into one of the squares will not guarantee entry into the other square once capacity is reached.
People attending either of the two events are asked to limit any bags they bring with them to no bigger than A4 in size and no glass is allowed. Bag searches will be in operation at each of the entrances into both Albert Square and St Peter’s Square.
Visitors should also note that guide dogs only will be allowed on St Peter’s Square.
Portaloo toilet facilities, including accessible toilets will be available on St Peter’s Square, and the Lloyd Street public toilets serving both squares will also remain open until 1 am.
In order to ensure safe and celebratory events for all attending, security staff will be keeping a close eye on revellers to make sure there is no disruption and that everyone is able to enjoy seeing in the New Year together.
