New Year’s Eve in Manchester: Where to Be and What to Expect

Manchester knows how to throw a party, and this year’s New Year’s Eve celebration promises to be bigger and better than ever. If you’re planning to see out 2024 with a bang, you’re in for a treat—a massive free fireworks display is happening right in the heart of the city, and there’s plenty to get excited about.

So, grab your mates, wrap up warm, and get ready for a Mancunian send-off to the year that’ll light up the night sky. Here's everything you need to know about New Year's Eve 2024 in Manchester.

The Details: Fireworks, Festivities, and a New Location

For the second year running, Manchester is hosting its free New Year’s Eve fireworks display after a pandemic-induced break, and this time it’s heading to St Peter’s Square for the first time ever. With the iconic Central Library providing a dramatic backdrop, and Big Santa himself watching over proceedings, the stage is set for an unforgettable night.

This new location means there’s room for 20,000 revellers to join the celebrations—double the capacity of last year’s event. And, for the first time, fireworks will be launched straight from the roof of Manchester Central Library. Talk about making history.

The event officially kicks off at 10pm and runs until 12.30am, so there’s plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere before the big countdown. Local radio presenter and DJ Joe McGrath will be hosting the live stage show, keeping the crowd entertained and building up to the fireworks display at midnight. Expect bright lights, loud music, and a dazzling pyrotechnic show that’ll have you grinning all the way into 2025.

Booze-Free, Family-Friendly Fun

This year’s bash is strictly family-friendly, so you won’t need to dodge drunken antics. While alcohol is a no-go, there’ll be a couple of stalls on-site serving hot food and non-alcoholic drinks—perfect for warming up as the clock ticks closer to midnight.

It’s worth noting that the event is standing room only, so you’ll want to wear your comfiest shoes. That said, there will be a designated accessible viewing area on the Metrolink platform closest to the library, available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Getting There: Travel, Trams, and Traffic

St Peter’s Square may be the place to be, but getting there requires a bit of planning. If you’re taking the tram, be aware that there’ll be no Metrolink services through St Peter’s Square from 8pm on New Year’s Eve until the end of service. Instead, consider walking or hopping off at nearby stops like Deansgate-Castlefield or Piccadilly Gardens and making your way in on foot.

For drivers, several road closures and parking suspensions will be in place around the event area, starting from the evening of 31st December through to the early hours of New Year’s Day. Limited accessible parking will be available on Mount Street, so arrive early if you’re hoping to grab a space.

Keeping Things Safe and Sound

With 20,000 people expected, security will be tight to keep things running smoothly. Bag searches will be in operation at all entrances, and anyone planning to attend is asked to stick to small bags—nothing bigger than A4 size.

If you’re sensitive to noise or bright lights, be prepared—this is a fireworks display after all, and things will get loud. Portaloos, including accessible toilets, will be available on-site to keep everyone comfortable, and Lloyd Street’s public toilets will remain open until 1am.

Wrapping Up and Heading Home

As much as Mancunians love a party, everyone’s got to go home eventually. Event staff will be on hand to clear the area quickly and ensure the city’s residents can enjoy a peaceful start to the New Year. So, once the fireworks fizzle out and the last cheer echoes across St Peter’s Square, make your way home promptly and leave the cleanup to the pros.

Manchester’s Big Send-Off

Councillor Pat Karney, Manchester’s New Year spokesperson, sums it up best: “If there’s something we do well in Manchester, it’s getting together for a big celebration.” And he’s not wrong. With stunning fireworks, a buzzing atmosphere, and a chance to welcome in 2025 surrounded by thousands of like-minded revellers, St Peter’s Square is undoubtedly one of the the best places to be this New Year’s Eve.

If you're curious about where else may be a good shout for a New Year Celebration make sure you check out our article all about the Best Places To Spend New Year's Eve 2024 in the UK

Prefer a New Year’s Eve at Home?

If braving the crowds, queues, and questionable weather isn’t your thing, you’re in good company. Sometimes the best way to celebrate is with your own firework display in the back garden.

At Epic Fireworks, we’re your go-to for everything you need to put on an awesome New Year's Eve fireworks display. With an extensive range of fireworks, from sparklers and fountains to show-stopping barrages and rockets we've got everything you need. 

Looking for something easy but still impressive?

Our DIY NYE firework display packs come with everything you need to create a stunning show, with easy-to-follow instructions to help you fire like a pro. Plus, our fireworks are up to 5 times more powerful than supermarket fireworks so you'll be getting more bang for your buck, literally!

Shop our full range of fireworks today