Families looking for ways to keep the children entertained over the school holidays will have plenty to choose from as the Trafford Centre has announced its biggest programme of summer activities to date.
Running from Saturday, July 18 until Monday, August 31, the popular shopping destination will host the return of its much-loved Summer Fair alongside brand-new live entertainment, interactive workshops, community events and family competitions.
With more than 200 shops, restaurants and attractions already on site, Trafford Centre is promising a full day out for visitors throughout the summer break.
One of Trafford Centre’s most popular seasonal attractions, the Summer Fair, is making its return with a mix of family favourites and thrilling rides.
Open daily from 12pm to 8pm, the fair will once again feature its popular beach and splash pool, alongside classic fairground rides and traditional summer treats.
New for 2026 is the Cosmic Carnival Show, a free live entertainment programme taking over the Orient Main Stage throughout August.
Families can enjoy the magical Out of Time Circus, featuring aerial performances, colourful characters and live vocals, before joining the energetic Zero-Gravity Disco, complete with chart music, dance routines and audience participation.
After each performance, children can also take part in free circus-themed workshops, where they’ll learn dance routines and try their hand at circus skills alongside the performers.
Shows will take place every Wednesday and Thursday throughout August at 12pm, 1pm, 2 pm and 3 pm.
Summer Passport offers prizes and exclusive dining deals
Visitors can also sign up for a free Summer Passport, available through the Trafford Centre’s website before collecting it from Guest Services.
Families can collect six stamps by visiting participating attractions, including:
- NAMCO Funscape
- Paradise Island Adventure Golf
- Laser Quest
- ODEON
- The Summer Fair
- Cosmic Carnival Shows
The passport also unlocks exclusive offers at a selection of restaurants, including PizzaExpress, YO! Sushi, Shake Shack, Hello Oriental, Blanchflower and Chit ‘n’ Chaat.
Once completed, passports can be returned for the chance to win a ยฌยฃ1,000 Trafford Centre Gift Card, with two runners-up each receiving a ยฌยฃ500 Gift Card.
Trafford Centre will also host its annual Emergency Services Day on Thursday, August 6, giving families the opportunity to meet Greater Manchester’s emergency service teams.
Visitors will be able to explore emergency vehicles, meet frontline personnel and learn more about the work they do to keep local communities safe.
Meanwhile, the centre has partnered with EMPOWER Youth Zones to launch a School Uniform Drive, helping children across Manchester and Salford prepare for the new academic year.
From Tuesday, July 7 until Sunday, August 16, shoppers are invited to donate new school essentials at the Guest Services Lounge on Lower Regent Crescent.
The donations will support EMPOWER Youth Zones’ Future Readycampaign, helping young people start school with the supplies they need.
Trafford Centre promises a summer packed with entertainment
Alongside the seasonal events, visitors can continue to enjoy Trafford Centre’s extensive shopping, dining and leisure offering, including attractions such as ODEON, Laser Quest, LEGOLAND Discovery Centre and King Pins.
Simon Layton, Centre Director at Trafford Centre, said the venue is looking forward to welcoming families throughout the holidays.
He said:
“Summer is one of the most exciting times of year at Trafford Centre, and we’re delighted to be bringing back a fantastic programme of family entertainment and experiences.
“From the return of our Summer Fair and the brand-new Cosmic Carnival to Emergency Services Day and exciting food pop-ups, there’s plenty for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
“Whether you’re visiting for a day of family fun, shopping or dining, there’s even more to play with at Trafford Centre this summer, making it the perfect destination throughout the school holidays for families.”
With free entertainment, family attractions, shopping and dining all under one roof, Trafford Centre is set to be one of Greater Manchester’s go-to destinations this summer.
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