The Imperial War Museum
Discover the sounds and sights of Wartime Britain - Storytelling and Horrible Histories: Blitzed Brits
Light Programme at MOSI
There are various free events at the Museum of Science and Industry as part of the Christmas Light Programme.
The following drop-in events are from December 19 to January 3:
Kaleidoscope: Discover the science behind mirrors and reflection by building your very own kaleidoscope in this interactive family workshop. The event is on from 2pm to 4pm in the Power Hall and is open to all ages.
The Wonder of Light: Mischievous magicians use the principles of light to create illusions. In this interactive science show be amazed by shocking shadows, astonished at the cloning cube and stunned by the headless horror; is it magic or science? The event is for children aged four and above and takes place in the Learning Loft, Great Western Warehouse with sessions at 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm and 2:30pm.
Giant Pinhole Cameras:See the museum in a new light with these wearable takes on one of the oldest projectors. Pop your head inside and turn the world upside down. The event, for all ages, is from 10am to 4pm in the Upper Yard.
Shadow Theatre Photobooth: Come to the dark side and play in our shadow theatre. Grab a prop, strike a pose, create exciting shadow shapes and be sure to catch it all on camera. It runs from 10am to 4pm in the Revolution Manchester Gallery, Great Western Warehouse.
For details of other events running as part of the Christmas Light Programme see here.
Museum of Science and Industry, Liverpool Road, Manchester, M3 4FP.
Intu Trafford Centre
There is various free festive fun taking place at the Trafford Centre in December. Children will be able to take a turn in the giant snow globe which will be arriving in the second week of December. The Fairytale of Manchester is being brought to you by the Once Upon A Smile children's bereavement charity.
The Whitworth
Artist Sundays are on each week until December 20 where extraordinary artists invent offbeat and imaginative ways for you and your family to explore The Whitworth.
For more details of these and other activities including the Outdoor Art Club on the first Saturday of each month see here.
Manchester Museum
Manchester Museum hosts sensory play and interactive story sessions for babies who aren't walking yet.
At weekends, between 11am and 4pm, you can drop into the museum's Discovery Centre for drawing and other art activities inspired by the museum's collection and pick up one of the free activity sheets.
The library houses a children’s area with a difference - it's themed on the Secret Garden by local author Frances Hodgson Burnet. Spot the animals that pop out from the undergrowth on the digital wall display, or see yourself in the centre of the garden in the special projection area.
There is seating and cushions for you to curl up with your children and a book, and computers close at hand. All the computers can be used by children, so you can find an area that suits you.
The Archives+ area is also full of interactivity, designed to get both you and your children interested in the local area and your family history.
Central Library is open 9am to 8pm Monday to Thursday, 9am to 5pm on Friday and Saturday.
Central Library, St Peters Square, Manchester, M2 5PD.
The perfect place for families to have some fun, kick a ball, share some memories and of course discover more about your favourite game. Entry to the museum is free and it has been designed to appeal to families with kids of all ages, so wherever you are there'll be something for you to get involved with.
Throughout the museum there are interactive objects, games and displays that will appeal to a wide range of ages. The Discovery Zone is designed especially for those five and under.
Ladybird Books: The Story of Football is an exhibition featuring original artwork from the Ladybird footballing classic The Story of Football.
National Football Museum, Urbis Building, Cathedral Gardens, Manchester, M4 3BG.
There is lots on offer for families, including the Clore Art Studio, free family friendly resources and facilities and a popular cafe. For those with younger children, try one of the explorer tool belts for family groups with children aged three to six. There are plenty of tools to help you explore the gallery including binoculars, magnifying glasses, spot cards and much more.
On the top floor families can also try out the handling trail in the Gallery of Craft and Design, where you can feel ceramics, glass, metal and wood objects made especially for touching. All the family resources are available from the information desk in the atrium, just ask a member of staff. The museum is open Monday to Sunday 10am to 5pm.
Manchester Art Gallery, Mosley Street, Manchester, M2 3JL.
Keep your eye out - we'll be updating this blog on a regular basis.
If you know of, or are running a FREE event for kids upto Christmas - let us know - Add it here .
