2022 is officially over and it’s time to ring in a new and, hopefully, an even more exciting year. It might be strange realising it’s already 2023 and covid is long over, and we can unearth plenty of fun things to do in Glasgow. So, we’ve summoned a noteworthy list of ideas to make the start of the year as exciting as ever. And rest assured, you’ll definitely end January knowing that it was the best month of 2023 – so far!
1. Celebrate the best of Queen at this stunning candlelight concert
Candlelight: A Tribute to Queen puts the much-loved anthems of the iconic band in the spotlight once more. Coming to the clandestine venue, Platform, on January 25, a talented string quartet will be performing classical renditions of Queen’s biggest hits in an intimate evening that will have you scouring the internet for a lemon-yellow leather jacket and dusting off your vinyls. Expect unique versions of anthems like Bohemian Rhapsody, We Will Rock You, We Are The Champions and Who Wants To Live Forever.
2. Try out a killer Sunday roast at The Loveable Rogue’s new East End branch
The Loveable Rogue, one of the hippest gastropubs in Glasgow, opened a second restaurant location in the city’s East End this December, where diners are able to enjoy a wide variety of homemade comfort foods, locally brewed beers and wine at the newly opened branch. While the West End branch menu is designed for all hours of the day, the new East End location will focus on breakfast and brunch, as well as their famous Rogue’s Roast Sundays. The Sunday menu is well worth drooling over, with a choice of two or three courses, which serves everything from classic Roast Beef and Yorkshire Puddings to Sunday roast dinners with a twist. Just tuck in and enjoy!
3. Have a one last skating session at the UK’s biggest ice rink
The UK’s biggest ice rink, Elfingrove, is officially staying for longer, giving weegies a chance to visit the mega-successful festive event. The experience will now run until January 8, featuring a dedicated spectator area for the ice rink, its Snow Wheel with views across Glasgow, as well as bookable Skate-Side-Dining, an Après Skate Bar and Candyland for foodies. You can get your tickets for the new Elfingrove dates here.
4. Have a feast at a street food market
Feeling peckish? Pick up some locally made bakes, devour some delicious street food or simply browse the lovely little stalls that make up Glasgow’s mouth-wateringly good food scene. Try street food at either Big Feed, Platform or Dockyard Social where you and your mates are bound to find something you like. You’ll also find epic ice cream sandwiches and desserts at Platform too, so save some space!
5. Go see comedian Peter Kay’s first tour in 12 years
The comedian known for both his stand-up comedy and TV programme Peter Kay’s Car Share, which he wrote and starred in, will be returning to the stage for a nationwide tour spanning throughout the whole of 2023, 2024 and beyond. And now, a new Glasgow date has officially been added to the tour, and it kicks off on January 29 in Glasgow’s OVO Hydro Arena, with the next two dates being in May. Tickets for the newly-announced dates for the stand-up tour will go on sale on Sunday, December 10 from 10am on the Peter Kay website here.
6. Get jazzy at Candlelight: The Jazz Club
A series of glowing candles will illuminate the converted railway arches of the iconic city-centre venue, Platform, known for its versatile spaces that host gigs, exhibitions, club nights and dining. And on January 27, it will be transformed into a jazz club with a live jazz band performing the greatest creations of the genre. At Last by Etta James is set to be kicking off the show, and the iconic melodies of hits such as It Don’t Mean A Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing) by Duke Ellington, Aint Misbehavin by Sarah Vaughan and Cheek To Cheek by Ella Fitzgerald. You can book your tickets here.
7. Escape the city and enjoy a brisk winter walk near Loch Lomond
Scotland is an ancient land with terrain formed from three separate continents. Because of the geological diversity, the country is considered among the best places in the world for hiking and outdoor activities by many. As we have such amazing sights right on our doorstep, go for a short hike near Loch Lomond to recharge and breathe some clean air. For example, the Conic Hill route will take you up onto Conic Hill where you will find inspiring panoramic views of Loch Lomond. The trail starts at Balmaha and is only 3.9km, taking around 2 hours to complete, including plenty of time spent taking in the views. However, the loop trek takes hikers back down onto a steep path, so if you’re just wanting an easy day, go back down the same way you hiked up.
8. Celebrate Burns night with the best of Scottish stand-up comedy
Here in Glasgow we can celebrate one of Scotland’s best poets, Robert Burns, from either our homes or out and about in the city. If you’re in the mood to go out on the day, check out The Stand Comedy Club on January 25, who will be hosting a Burns Night special, The Best Of Scottish Comedy. The line-up is still to be confirmed, but The Stand is bringing us the best of what Scottish comedy has to offer. It’s always a great night out at the comedy club, and we cannot wait for this one. The tickets are up to £10, and as always, arrive early to grab the best seats. There will also be Khao Boi Thai and Southeast Asia-inspired street food for comedy lovers to enjoy.
9. Go vegan for the month
Veganuary rolls around once more, and it seemingly gathers speed every January. We say, if you can’t beat ’em, join ’em, so why not check out all the vegan delights that Glasgow has to offer to inspire your next dining out experience. From vegan junk food by Biffs and Stereo to Asian cuisine by Suissi Vegan Asian Kitchen and The Hug and Pint, there’s definitely something for plant-based eaters to enjoy in Glasgow, Veganuary or not.
10. Take cover in one of the city’s cosy outdoor terraces
One of the best things to do during January is most definitely snuggling up with a drink in a warm and cosy pub alongside great company, otherwise you’re not doing winter right. Luckily, Glasgow has a few cosy and covered terraces in order to create a dreamy outdoor nest for you to do just that. Plus, they might just be pretty enough to make you question whether to sit inside or outside on a cold night. Most would think it’s a no-brainer to head indoors, however these terraces are decked out to make your visit rather toasty with the options of furs, blankets, hot water bottles, heaters and all the boozy (as well as non-boozy) drinks you could want.
11. Sip on a wee dram at The National Whisky Festival
Returning to SWG3 this January with it’s sell-out event is The National Whisky Festival, enjoy a diverse selection of whiskies and guest spirits. Across two extensive three-and-a-half hour sessions on January 21, each event will showcase dozens of exhibitors from many of the most exciting and innovative names in the industry. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a curious newcomer, you can expect a full programme of live entertainment, tasting masterclasses as well as pop-up food and drink vendors and craft stalls.
12. Try out a game of golf at this brand new massive entertainment venue
Topgolf, the brand-new entertainment golf spot with climate-controlled bays branched out to Glasgow’s Rutherglen area and opened its doors on December 16. Players can expect tech-driven games in a three-story venue, a generous food and drink menu, and a vibe focused on more play for all in the purpose-built venue. Situated in Rutherglen, Players will be transported into a new world of gamified golf and take on their friends and family in friendly stand-offs.