Ah, the twinkling Christmas lights are starting to emerge in Glasgow, and we’re beyond ecstatic. As people are starting to dust off their trees, Glasgow is beginning to look a lot like Christmas. And yes, it’s the time when solely talking in song lyrics is acceptable. And for those who love to observe the charming lights all around on top of having Michael Bublé on repeat, we’ve gathered up a list of all the must-see places.
If you’re looking for a more intimate, less crowded experience, head to a festive Candlelight concert in one of Glasgow’s glowing venues. From Christmas pop hits to carols — you can see it all by candlelight.
1. George Square
While the exact details regarding the Christmas Fair at George Square haven’t been announced yet, Glasgow city centre is transforming into a true festive wonderland. The traditional Christmas lights are a must-see every year, as Glasgow City Chambers lights up once again. After the Christmas Lights, the spirit of Christmas is back in full swing.
2. Enlightenment Glasgow
One of the most noteworthy things to do in Glasgow this season, launching on December 21. Enlightenment Glasgow is bringing a Kaleidoscopic light show to the majestic Merchants House of Glasgow. Expect Vivaldi’s moving violin concerto along with an immersive light show with 360-degree projections. You can book your tickets here.
3. Royal Exchange Square and The Ivy
This is another fairly obvious route, but it wouldn’t be a Christmas without wandering around Royal Exchange Square with its canopy of twinkling lights. Plus, close by you’ll find the beautifully decorated archway of The Ivy, where you can pop in for a festive drink or ten. The inside of The Ivy is just as Christmassy, and the Festive Drinks menu is as magical as ever.
4. The Corinthian Glasgow
As one of Glasgow’s most iconic buildings, The Corinthian boasts five floors of bars, brasserie and events spaces for weegies to enjoy, as well as plenty of Christmas decorations to go around. And while you’re there, check out their Festive Afternoon Tea options, or the Festive Boozy Brunch on Sundays. Other festive dining and activities options can be found here.
5. Princes Square
Now that it’s all glitzed up for Christmas with its massive Christmas tree, Princes Square is the epitome of a festive destination. There are lots of shops to find the perfect gifts, the decorations are on point and, not to mention, the historic building itself is a gorgeous wee thing to look at after the 7.5 million pound refurb. For a truly festive wee afternoon out, after you’re done shopping head down to Maison by Glaschu above the big Christmas tree for some superlative croissants, the cheesiest onion soup or a perfectly crafted cocktail.
6. St Enoch
St Enoch Square Christmas Fair’s details have not yet been released, but it’s usually the place to be to see some twinkling Christmas lights. Last year, the iconic windmill could be spotted right when you exit the subway, with a fairytale-like backdrop of Frasers twinkling lights on Buchanan street.
7. Transylvania Shop & Coffee
We are absolutely obsessed with all that Transylvania Shop & Coffee on Victoria Road is about around Christmastime. You can find a stunningly decorated ambience, hot drinks, cakes and Romanian goods to shop. You can even snag yersel a real Christmas tree! Once you’re there, grab an uber-delicious Romanian honey cake with a festive hot chocolate and admire all the vibes and more.
8. Step into a Christmas wonderland experience at a castle near Glasgow
An immersive, festively illuminated Christmas experience, Starry Nights, is coming to Dean Castle Country Park in Kilmarnock this December, bringing that much-anticipated Christmas cheer. Located just half an hour from Glasgow, the experience features all that good stuff that we all love when it comes to illuminated trails, with plenty of fun for the whole family, taking place between December 6 and 23.