Christmas is fast approaching, and we’re left wondering where did the time go. However, while it’s one of the busiest times of the year, it’s important to still make time for ourselves and to still have some well-deserved fun. From traditional holiday movie scores performed in candlelight, to seriously festive food and drink, here’s our guide to some of the most festive things to do in Glasgow this Christmas.
1. Go ice skating
Glasgow has welcomed the beginning of the festive season as the Christmas Lights Switch On was on Sunday, November 17. This marked the official start of the festive season for this year, and every other Christmas-related activity out there. So, why not go ice skating around Glasgow, and check out our list of the best ice rinks in Glasgow for this holiday season.
2. Listen to Christmas classics performed by a string quartet in a candlelit setting
This winter, Candlelight is bringing a series of special concerts illuminated by thousands of candles to Glasgow. Just get cosy inside The Tall Ship and Merchants House of Glasgow and get yourself into the festive spirit by enjoying heart-warming music expertly performed by classically-trained musicians. Admire stellar performances of traditional carols, festive film scores and more as you settle in for evenings of Christmas bliss.
3. Discover a joyful local Christmas market at Glasgow’s Southside
A cheerfully sustainable Christmas market is coming to the Southside, and we cannot wait. Rags To Riches festive market will be held on December 15, inviting guests to shop locally. During the sustainability-led markets, over 100 small businesses, local artists and crafters will be showcasing and selling their work. You can expect pretty much anything and everything, from Christmas decorations to hand-crafted jewellery, hot water bottles or handmade skincare. You should not only be able to support local businesses, but also have some quality time with your family and friends! Market-goers will also be able to enjoy mulled wine and food from local vendors, as well as listen to live music and attend festive workshops.
4. Go Christmas shopping to these independent shops
While we like to encourage shopping independently during ‘normal’ times, the apparent effects of the pandemic and the cost of living crisis on small businesses means supporting them has become more important than ever before. Stop by the George Mews shop to pick up a few cheesy treats, or pick out an eclectic mix of brews at Drygate Brewing Co. You could also stop by Blooms to choose the perfect plant baby for yourself or a loved one, as well as opt for a quirkier homeware present at the Braw Wee Emporium. There are plenty of local independent businesses to shop small in Glasgow, and Christmas shopping is a great way to do so.
5. Check out Winterfest at St Enoch Square
St Enoch Square Christmas Fair is on from November 9 this year with Santa’s runaway train, and festive bar on top of the stalls and rides. As usual, the iconic windmill can be spotted right away, with a magical backdrop of Frasers twinkling lights on Buchanan Street. Moreover, on top of festive wonder and Christmassy vibes, the street food stalls are serving some well-anticipated festive faveourites, such as a marshmallow toasting station and a swing grill.
6. Indulge in a Festive Afternoon Tea or a Boozy Brunch at this iconic building
As one of Glasgow’s most iconic buildings, The Corinthian boasts five floors of bars, brasserie and events spaces for Glaswegians to rejoice in, as well as plenty of Christmassy vibes to go around. And while you’re there, check out their Festive Afternoon Tea options, or the Festive Boozy Brunch on Sundays. There are also other dining options as well as things to do this Christmas that can be found here.
7. Visit Winterfest at George Square Christmas market
George Square is seeing Winterfest transforming Glasgow city centre into a winter wonderland from November 23. The traditional Christmassy experience is a must-visit every year, as George Square becomes the main place to be. The Christmas fair is offering visitors a glide on the central ice rink and is home to an observation wheel with Venetian chairs boasting urban sights of central Glasgow. The Christmas market will also feature a community hub, a Victorian carousel, a street food hub and a festive-themed bar.
8. Make your own mulled wine
A great alternative to the Christmas Markets if you would prefer to have a night in, mulled wine is an incredibly tasty festive treat – and it’s super easy to make, too. All you need is a pan and a hob, and the ingredients which can be picked up from any local supermarket. Most recipes just require you to warm up red wine, oranges, cinnamon, cloves, star anise and a touch of sugar or honey to taste – and it’s as easy as popping it all in a saucepan together and simmering on low (with a pan cover) for just 15 minutes.
9. Discover Glasgow’s Christmas lights
10. Check out this heated rooftop terrace
Located on Royal Exchange Square, Kong Glasgow is a multi-room bar, restaurant and nightclub, and also has a Roof Garden. Whether you’re catching up with loved ones over brunch, dining out in the evening, just after a wee cocktail or want to dance the night away, the spot has it all. The all-season heated Roof Garden offers music and DJs, craft cocktails and plenty of food to try.
11. Meet Mrs Claus and make bath bombs at the new winter grotto in LUSH Glasgow
Every weekend from Saturday, November 30 until Christmas, Lush Glasgow City will be hosting its Winter Grotto and North Pole Breakfast experiences. Visitors can enjoy bath bomb-making while indulging in some delicious treats, and visiting Mrs Claus with the iconic Lush Snow Fairy herself. You can find tickets for the experiences here.
12. Check out the Raymond Gubbay Christmas Festival
Glasgow Royal Concert Hall is hosting the Raymond Gubbay Christmas Festival between December 20 and 30, bringing plenty of festive musical excellence to the city. Guests can expect festive pop hits performed by a live ensemble and singers at The Big Christmas Party on December 20, Music of the Movies – LOTR and Beyond on December 27, Glenn Miller Orchestra with wartime hits on December 29 and The Music of Zimmer vs Williams on December 30. You can book your tickets here by typing in the name of the event you’re looking for.