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End-of-year celebrations: budget and on-campus offers

13 Nov 2026

Get together, celebrate and make the most of what’s on offer on campus

image of John Owens quad with lights on the trees

As we head towards the end of the year, teams across the University will be making plans to get together, celebrate and recognise everything colleagues have contributed during 2026.

To support end-of-year celebrations, the University contributes £20 per person towards the cost of a meal or activity, as a thank you for colleagues’ contributions throughout the year.

Schools, Faculties, Directorates and Departments are responsible for organising their own celebrations, with the £20 per person contribution to be funded from their own local budgets. For full details about funding and what you need to consider when making plans, please see the Non-Business Employee Entertaining Policy.

Make your celebration inclusive

Whatever you have planned, please make sure everyone feels welcome to take part.

Organisers should check our Inclusive-Events guidance for practical advice on making events welcoming and accessible, and speak to their team in advance to understand and consider any individual requirements.

Keep it on campus

If you're planning a team get-together, celebration or thank-you lunch, remember there are plenty of options available right here on campus.

Using University venues and catering services helps us make the most of our own facilities while giving colleagues the chance to enjoy the spaces and hospitality available across campus.

The following seasonal menus are available to order on campus:

Events and Hospitality Menu  

Hot Buffet Menu  

Additional Menu: festive drinks and snacks  

Beehive Menu 

Beehive Festival three course lunch menu 

Manchester Museum Magic Place 

Step into Magic Place for your end-of-year celebrations! Use the £20 contribution per staff member to enjoy Manchester Museum’s new winter experience, including guaranteed entry and £15 to spend in the Museum Café.

Created by digital artists Genetic Moo, Magic Place is an interactive funhouse where colourful characters, patterns and shapes respond to every step, shimmy and shake.

Celebrate at Precinct 

Festive menu options are available throughout November and December, with bookings open from 16 November.