The Big Wheel has returned to Trafford Centre, with the structure currently under construction at a new site directly outside The Great Hall. It will formally open to riders over this weekend, Saturday October 10 and 11, for its initial run, then return the following weekend and open daily throughout the centre's Halloween Fair.
Halloween Fair dates and attractions
The Halloween Fair will run from 17 October to 1 November, promising "thrilling rides, family-friendly attractions and plenty of spooky fun". Families can also step inside the haunted Big Top for Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular, taking place on selected dates from 10 October to 1 November.
Packed with breathtaking circus acts, spooky surprises, dazzling costumes and plenty of laughter, Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular is billed as "a thrilling live show for the whole family". The Big Top will be on Car Park 7, opposite the big John Lewis.
Gandeys say: "From incredible acrobatics and edge-of-your-seat performances to Halloween magic and eerie entertainment, the experience will deliver plenty of chills and excitement under the Big Top".
Free activities and Christmas lights
The Halloween fun will continue inside the centre, where families can enjoy a range of free activities designed to keep children entertained throughout the half-term break. Located on Orient Way, Trafford Centre's free Halloween Craft Workshops will take place from 11am to 4pm, with a different activity each day: Tuesday 27 October – Trick or Treat Bag Making; Wednesday 28 October – Creep Characters; Thursday 29 October – Cookie Decorating.
Meanwhile, the Main Dome will become home to a Tiny Terrors Trail, an interactive Halloween adventure designed especially for younger guests.
Simon Layton, Centre Director at Trafford Centre, said: "October half term is always a highlight in Trafford Centre’s calendar and this year we are bringing even more thrills and excitement. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out, a memorable experience with the kids or a little Halloween magic, Trafford Centre is the perfect place to make the most of the half term break and immerse in the new season."
Bosses have also confirmed that, at the request of shoppers, the centre's famous Christmas lights won't be switched on until AFTER Halloween this year. They are set to go live from November 6 inside the centre.
Dates and times for Halloween at Trafford Centre events
The Halloween Fair will be open outside The Great Hall on the following dates and times: 17 and 18 October: 2pm–9pm; 19–23 October: 4pm–9pm; 24 October–1 November: 2pm–9pm.
Information on how to book tickets for the Fair and pricing will be announced soon. Gandey's Circus Spooktacular will run from October 10 to November 1, with tickets available to book now from £11.94 from the Gandey's website.
