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 festive season with a bang, with all the Christmas markets already in full blast. 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 Trades Hall 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. 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.
4. Check out Winter Wonderland at St Enoch Square
Winter Wonderland at St Enoch Square is on from November 6 this year, with the world’s first solar-powered observation wheel, and a 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 favourites, such as a marshmallow toasting station and a swing grill.
5. 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, a 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 the Winter Wonderland Christmas market at Glasgow Green
Glasgow Green is seeing Winter Wonderland Christmas market transforming the park into a winter wonderland from November 21. The traditional Christmassy experience is a must-visit every year, even though it is in a different location this year, as George Square remains closed. 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 also features a Victorian carousel, theatre performances, an Innis & Gunn Beer Hall and a street food hub.
7. Enjoy a night of live jazz music at this spectacular event
Go back to the golden days of the 1920s, where jazz music lit up the room and bubbly flowed freely. The Jazz Room invites you to settle in for a laid-back night where classic jazz pours out just like it did in the lively bars of the 1920s and 30s, taking place on December 17. And if you miss the fabulous night in December, you can catch it again in January. You can get your tickets here.
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8. Indulge in a six-course Nutcracker-themed dinner experience
Six By Nico is inviting guests to indulge in a six-course Nutcracker-themed dinner and make memories with loved ones. Expect a culinary experience based on the beloved classical fairy tale by E.T.A. Hoffmann, turned holiday tradition after being turned into a classical ballet production. During the experience, diners will embark on a journey of storytelling, magic and imagination featuring a narrator and ballet dancers.
9. 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.
10. Discover Glasgow’s Christmas lights
11. 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.
12. Meet Mrs Claus and make bath bombs at the new winter grotto in LUSH Glasgow
On December 17, 18, 19 and 20, Lush Glasgow City will be hosting its Winter Grotto and coffee mornings experiences. Visitors can meet Santa himself, and visit Mrs Claus with the iconic Lush Snow Fairy herself. You can find tickets for the experiences here.