This Christmas, MediaCityUK will transform into a winter wonderland as Walking with The Snowman brings a spectacular sculpture trail to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Raymond Briggs’ beloved picture book, The Snowman. For the first time ever, this iconic story will be brought to life through public art in a festive trail the whole family can enjoy.
Presented by Wild in Art—creators of the hugely popular Bee in the City trail—and in partnership with Penguin Ventures (part of Penguin Random House UK), this enchanting event is supported by Peel and The Lowry Outlet as Presenting Partners.
From 22 November 2025 to 6 January 2026, visitors can discover twelve giant Snowman sculptures, each one inspired by a line from the classic carol The Twelve Days of Christmas. The sculptures will be individually designed by twelve acclaimed artists, many of whom previously dazzled the city with their bee creations.
In the spirit of giving, all the sculptures will be auctioned online in early December to raise funds for BBC Children in Need. Winning bidders will receive their Snowman in time for the holidays—and can even visit it in situ before the trail wraps up in January.
The trail also includes a special Learning Programme, supported by Salford City Council, offering local schools the chance to join the celebration. Pupils will decorate their own 1-metre-tall Snowman sculptures, which will be displayed in venues across MediaCityUK. These mini masterpieces will appear in early December and remain on view until 13 January 2026, before returning to their schools as cherished keepsakes.
