REVIEW: GANDEYS HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR AT THE TRAFFORD CENTRE
Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular – Spooky Circus Fun & Our First Family Circus Adventure!
On Saturday 17th October 2026, we headed to the Trafford Centre in Manchester for a family afternoon at Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular. We had been kindly invited along to watch the 2.30pm performance, and with Halloween just around the corner, it seemed like a lovely way to get into the spooky spirit! This was also Alice and Leo's first ever visit to a circus, so they were both really excited to see what it would be like.
Gandeys Circus is a family-run circus company with a history stretching back more than 100 years. In 2025, the company was awarded the BigTopLabel, an international recognition of excellence in circus entertainment. Its Halloween Spooktacular combines traditional circus performances with a spooky twist, promising an afternoon of daring stunts, impressive acrobatics, comedy and Halloween fun.
We decided to travel to the Trafford Centre by bus, catching the 150 and getting off outside Selfridges. From there, we walked through the shopping centre, coming out through John Lewis before making our way to Peel 7 Car Park, where Gandeys Circus had set up its distinctive red, white and blue Big Top.
We had allowed ourselves plenty of time before the performance, so there was no need to rush, and we could enjoy having a look around before finding our seats.
Arriving At Gandeys Circus – Tickets, Food & Halloween Fun
When we arrived, we collected our tickets and refreshments vouchers from the box office, which was just in front of the Big Top. Once we had everything, we headed inside to have a look around.
There were various stalls selling food, drinks and circus merchandise. There were plenty of traditional circus treats available, including popcorn, candyfloss and slushies, along with hot food such as burgers, hot dogs and chips. There was also a merchandise stall selling various light-up toys, including flashing wands and swords.
One thing that immediately caught Alice's attention was the face painting stall. Both face painting and hair braiding were available for £5 each, and Alice decided she wanted to have her face painted as a ghost, which seemed very appropriate for a Halloween circus!
While Alice was having her face painted, Lawrence took Leo to collect our popcorn, candyfloss and drinks using the vouchers we had been given. Alice was really pleased with how her ghost face paint turned out, and as we had paid for her to have her face painted, we decided to let Leo choose something from the merchandise stall. He picked a light-up heart wand, which cost £12.
There were also some large Halloween-themed inflatables decorating the area, which Alice and Leo immediately spotted and wanted us to take photographs of them in front of. I thought these were a lovely addition, helping to create a fun Halloween atmosphere before we had even entered the main circus tent.
I really liked that there was plenty to see and do before the performance started. It made the visit feel like more of an occasion, rather than simply arriving, finding our seats and waiting for the show.
Our Seats & View Inside Gandeys Circus Big Top
Once we had finished exploring the entrance area, we headed into the main Big Top, where a member of staff checked our tickets and escorted us to our seats in the grandstand.
The seating was arranged around the circus ring, with the rows rising upwards towards the back. I thought the seats were well raked, meaning you could see over the people sitting in front of you, and from what I could see, I think you would get a good view from most areas of the Big Top.
The circus ring was positioned in the centre, with a colourful backdrop, theatrical lighting and a ceiling decorated with little stars. It had that wonderful traditional circus atmosphere, and I particularly liked how close the audience felt to the performers. Unlike a traditional theatre, where the action takes place on a stage, the performers were right there in the middle of the tent, which made everything feel much more immediate.
Before the show started, Leo needed the toilet, so we followed the clearly marked 'Toilets' exit inside the Big Top, which led directly to the portable toilets around the side of the ticket office. I thought this was really convenient, especially when visiting with children, as we didn't have to go back through the main entrance to reach them.
Once we were back in our seats, we settled down with our popcorn, candyfloss and drinks while we waited for the performance to begin.
Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular – The First Half
The show opened with a colourful dance number and introduction, immediately bringing plenty of energy to the circus ring. This was followed by the first main circus act, featuring a group of acrobats performing on large, tyre-shaped rings to Evanescence's Bring Me to Life. The performers bounced up and down on the rings, using them to launch themselves into the air and perform impressive somersaults. They even incorporated a long skipping rope into the routine! I thought the dramatic music and colourful lighting made this a brilliant way to start the show.
Throughout the first half, we were treated to a wonderful variety of entertainment, including dancing witches, comedy from the clown and a spectacular fire act. The fire performance was particularly striking, combining flaming props, acrobatics and a large metal hoop, with performers dressed in colourful UV-reactive costumes. The dramatic purple lighting made the flames stand out even more, creating a really impressive visual effect. There was also a dance routine to Michael Jackson's Thriller, which fitted perfectly with the Halloween theme. I particularly liked how the show moved between different styles of performance, with colourful dance numbers and moments of comedy breaking up the more intense circus acts. There was always something different happening, and I don't want to give too much away because I think part of the fun of visiting a circus is discovering what the performers have in store for you!
The clown provided plenty of laughs throughout the afternoon, interacting with the audience and getting everyone involved in the fun. Alice and Leo particularly enjoyed it when he ran through the audience squirting people with water! It was a really funny moment, and I thought it was lovely how the comedy wasn't just confined to the circus ring, with the audience becoming part of the entertainment too.
The Aerial Hoop – One Of My Favourite Performances
One of my favourite performances during the first half was the aerial hoop routine. The performer was suspended high above the circus ring on a large circular hoop, carrying out a series of impressive movements, balances and poses. I always find aerial performances fascinating, as they require such incredible strength, flexibility and control, yet the performers somehow manage to make everything look so graceful and effortless.
What made this particular performance even more special for me was the music. She performed to Kerry Ellis's rocky version of Defying Gravity from Wicked, which is a song I absolutely love! I thought the powerful vocals and rock arrangement worked brilliantly with the aerial routine, adding even more drama to the movements as she performed high above the circus ring.
The Globe Of Death – A Thrilling End To The First Half
The first half came to an exciting conclusion with the Globe of Death, which was a firm favourite with Lawrence and Leo.
The Globe of Death is a large metal spherical cage in which motorcyclists ride around the inside, performing incredibly daring manoeuvres. Watching the riders travel around the cage at speed, seemingly defying gravity as they circled above and around one another, was quite something!
It is one of those acts where you know the performers must have practised countless times, as the timing and precision required are incredible. Even though you know they are professionals, you can't help feeling a little nervous watching them.
The Interval – More Halloween Fun
There was a 20-minute interval between the two halves of the performance, giving everyone a chance to stretch their legs, use the toilets or buy some more refreshments. The face painting stall was also available during the interval, which was handy for anyone who hadn't had a chance to get their face painted before the show started.
During the interval, there was also an opportunity to go into the circus ring and take your own photographs with one of the motorbikes from the show and a giant purple monster character. There appeared to be a charge for this, which I believe was around £4, although I can't confirm the exact price. I thought it was a fun opportunity for families to capture a souvenir of their visit, particularly for children who had enjoyed the motorbike performances.
There was also a raffle, with tickets available to purchase for the chance to win a big plushie. The winner was announced just before the second half began.
Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular – The Second Half
After the interval, we returned to our seats for more circus entertainment, and the second half got off to a particularly exciting start with a Squid Game-inspired Russian swing performance.
The performers were dressed in costumes inspired by the popular Netflix series, including green tracksuits and pink guards, while a large inflatable character resembling the Red Light, Green Light doll added to the unusual presentation.
A Russian swing is a large floor-mounted swing that performers use to build up momentum before launching themselves high into the air to perform acrobatic tricks. It was incredible watching the performers being propelled into the air before carrying out somersaults and other acrobatic movements. The timing and coordination involved must be extremely precise, particularly as the performers have to work together to build up enough momentum for each stunt.
Alice and Leo both really enjoyed this act, and Alice couldn't quite believe what she was watching. She kept asking me, "Is it real?" because she was so amazed that the performers could actually do something like that! I thought the Squid Game theme was an interesting addition to the show, giving this particular act a slightly different feel from the more traditional circus performances.
The second half continued with a mixture of comedy, aerial acrobatics, dancing and other impressive circus skills. I particularly enjoyed the aerial performances, which were another wonderful display of strength and control, while the clown continued to provide plenty of laughs between the bigger acts.
The High-Wire Act – Alice's Favourite Performance
Another highlight of the second half was the tightrope and high-wire balancing performance, which was definitely Alice's favourite part of the afternoon.
Watching the performers demonstrate their incredible balance and control high above the circus ring was quite nerve-racking, particularly when you consider how far above the ground they were. I always find these sorts of acts fascinating because they require so much concentration, precision and skill.
Alice was absolutely captivated by the performance and, just as she had during the Russian swing act, kept asking me, "Is it real?" She just couldn't quite believe that people could actually do something like that!
It was lovely seeing her so amazed by what was happening in front of her, and I think watching the high-wire performers is something she'll remember from her first circus experience.
A Fun-Filled Finale
Before we knew it, the afternoon was drawing to a close, with the performers coming together for a colourful finale.
Towards the end of the show, the dancers performed to This Is Me from The Greatest Showman, which I thought was a lovely choice of song for the closing part of the performance.
The show then finished with The Time Warp from The Rocky Horror Show, with everyone encouraged to get up and join in with the dancing! I thought this was a brilliant way to end the afternoon, bringing the audience into the fun and finishing the performance on a really lively note.
I always enjoy seeing the whole cast come together at the end of a show, and this was no exception. It was lovely seeing the different performers together after watching their individual acts throughout the afternoon.
The performance lasted approximately an hour and 40 minutes, including the 20-minute interval, which I thought was a good length for a family show. There was plenty happening throughout, and the afternoon seemed to fly by.
Final Thoughts On Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular
We had a lovely afternoon visiting Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular at the Trafford Centre, and it was a fun way to enjoy some family time together during the Halloween season.
As this was Alice and Leo's first ever circus experience, it was lovely seeing how much they enjoyed themselves. We all came away with different favourite moments, and I think that says a lot about the variety of entertainment on offer. It was a wonderful introduction to the circus for them, and I loved seeing their reactions to some of the incredible performances.
I thought the combination of traditional circus acts with the Halloween theme worked really well, giving the show a slightly different feel while still keeping that familiar Big Top atmosphere. One of the things I particularly loved was how much thought had gone into the overall presentation. It wasn't simply a collection of individual circus acts, but a complete theatrical experience, with the music, costumes, choreography and lighting all working together. I loved the mixture of familiar songs and more dramatic music, including I Will Rise Again by Orkestral Studio, and thought the music had been really well chosen to complement the different performances. The dancers' costumes ranged from colourful circus-inspired outfits to darker, more gothic looks, while the changing lighting helped create different atmospheres throughout the show. I thought it struck a lovely balance between spooky entertainment and family fun.
The additional activities before the show were also a nice touch. Alice enjoyed having her ghost face paint, while Leo was very pleased with his light-up wand, and these little extras helped make the afternoon feel even more special.
I also thought the location at the Trafford Centre was convenient, particularly as we were able to travel there by bus and walk through the shopping centre to reach the Big Top.
One thing I would mention for families visiting with children who are sensitive to loud noises is that the music was quite loud. Leo sometimes struggles when shows are particularly noisy, so we always take his ear defenders with us, just in case he needs them. He did ask for them during the performance, and once he had them on, he was much more comfortable and really enjoyed the show. If your child is sensitive to loud sounds, I would recommend bringing ear defenders, just in case they need them.
If you're looking for Halloween family activities in Manchester, particularly something a little different from the usual pumpkin picking and spooky trails, Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular is certainly worth considering. With its mixture of exciting stunts, impressive acrobatics, comedy, dancing and Halloween fun, there's plenty for both children and adults to enjoy.
Save £5 On Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular Tickets With My Exclusive Discount Code!
If you're thinking of visiting Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular at the Trafford Centre, I've got a little treat for you!
Gandeys Circus has kindly given me an exclusive discount code to share with my readers, giving you £5 off Grandstand, Ringside and Premium Ringside tickets.
🎟️ Discount Code: VIP5
Simply enter the code VIP5 when booking your tickets to receive £5 off eligible seating.
The show runs until Sunday 1st November 2026, so there's still time to enjoy some spooky circus fun this Halloween!
Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular At The Trafford Centre – At A Glance
🎪 Show: Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular 2026
📍 Location: Peel 7 Car Park (P7), Trafford Centre, Manchester, M17 8AA
📅 Show Dates: Saturday 10th October – Sunday 1st November 2026
⏱️ Running Time: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes, including a 20-minute interval
🎭 What To Expect: A Halloween-themed circus featuring motorbikes, the Globe of Death, aerial acrobatics, balancing acts, comedy, dancing and audience participation.
👨👩👧👦 Family Friendly: An entertaining circus experience for the whole family, although some of the daring stunts, spooky characters and loud music may be overwhelming for younger or more sensitive children.
👶 Under 2s: Children under two can attend free of charge when sitting on an adult's lap.
🔊 Noise Levels: We found the music quite loud, so ear defenders may be useful for children who are sensitive to noise.
🍿 Food & Drinks: Popcorn, candyfloss, slushies, burgers, hot dogs and chips available to purchase. Outside food and drinks are not permitted.
🎨 Additional Activities: Face painting and hair braiding (£5 each), light-up toys, merchandise and photo opportunities. Face painting was also available during the interval.
📸 Interval Photo Opportunity: Take your own photographs with a motorbike and giant purple monster character in the circus ring. An additional charge may apply.
🎃 Fancy Dress: Halloween costumes are encouraged.
🚻 Toilets: Portable toilets located around the side of the ticket office, accessible directly from a clearly marked exit inside the Big Top.
♿ Accessibility: Wheelchair access available. Pushchairs must be left in the designated area at the entrance.
🚗 Getting There & Parking: Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular is accessible by car, bus or tram. Free parking is available at the Trafford Centre, including Peel 7 Car Park (P7), where the Big Top is located. If travelling by public transport, the Big Top is a short walk from the John Lewis end of the shopping centre.
🎟️ Exclusive Discount: Use code VIP5 for £5 off Grandstand, Ringside and Premium Ringside tickets.
🔗 Book Tickets: Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular
Gifted Experience: We were kindly invited to attend Gandeys Halloween Spooktacular and received complimentary tickets and refreshments vouchers in exchange for an honest review. Gandeys Circus also provided an exclusive discount code for my readers. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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