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.
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. 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. Try the Popping Cracker Royale with Monkey 47 Gin, passion fruit, spiced mango, lime and cranberry juice topped with prosecco, finished with fairy floss and popping candy.
3. 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.
4. 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 Big Feed Kitchen near the big Christmas tree for some street food with a Michelin star twist or a perfectly crafted cocktail.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. Beecraigs Festive Forest
An extravagant light trail, the Festive Forest, with light shows and lasers has been enchanting Beecraigs Country Park near Linlithgow just an hour’s drive away from Glasgow. The festive experience will run from 4pm between December 1 and December 23, inviting visitors to be transported to an other-worldly land deep into the woods. The 1.8-mile walk offers Christmassy laser shows and exhilarating lighting effects as well as sound effects for an unforgettable immersive experience. Plus, a myriad of festive food and drink options will also be available in the Santa Village, including all the usual favourites such as hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows, mulled wine and hot cider, as well as Scottish street food from local vendors.
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 8 and 23.