Things to do in Glasgow at Christmas time

“The nights are fair drawing in” – a Scottish turn of phrase to describe the transition into the Winter months where daylight hours dwindle. Here in Glasgow, there is much happening to help keep your nights bright and merry. As the festive season approaches, and preparations begin for Christmas, we have prepared a Top 5 Things to Do in Glasgow this Festive Season. Take a look below and start planning your Glasgow city break. Why not check out our Glasgow Christmas hotel package?

Attend the Christmas Lights Switch On

The lights switch on at George Square is a popular Christmas event that attracts up to 10,000 festive revellers eager to see the moment that Glasgow City Chambers is illuminated and the city’s square comes to life. The date of this year’s switch on is Sunday 20^th November and tickets were drawn by Glasgow City Council’s ballot. If you missed the chance to attend the lights switch on, still make the time to wander through George Square lit up during the festive season, as it is perfect for those memorable photographs and absorbing the Christmas cheer!

Go See a Pantomime!

The Scottish “panto” or pantomime, evolved from the music hall tradition of the mid-19^th-century, is a theatrical production that brings family and friends together over the festive period every year in Glasgow. The musical numbers, topical jokes and slapstick humour combines for a night of laughs and fun, with a regular form of audience participation – “Oh No There Isn’t!”.

Beauty and the Beast kicks off at the King’s Theatre in Glasgow from the 26^th November and runs through to New Year’s Eve. The Magical Adventures of Aladdin is the pantomime of choice at the Pavilion, running from the 1^st December to 15^th January.

Our hotel is situated in the heart of Glasgow’s Theatreland, directly across from Pavilion Theatre and a 2-minute and 10-minute walk from the Theatre Royal and King’s Theatre. Book our Christmas package and make the most of the night!

Shop The Night AwaY

Glasgow is well-known for its shopping, and during the festive season the city comes into its own. Shops are open later on Glasgow’s Style Mile, with many retailers extending their opening hours. Buchanan Galleries, St Enoch Centre, Princes Square and Buchanan Street are all bustling with Christmas shoppers at this time of year, so join in the action and find the perfect gifts for your loved ones. Once the shopping is done, you can unwind and warm up in one of the many bars and restaurants that are dotted around this area, or even come to our Grain & Grill Restaurant and enjoy our delicious seasonal menu.

We are less than a 5-minute walk to Buchanan Street at Maldron Hotel Glasgow City, perfectly situated to make the most of shopping in the city.

Elfingrove

Elfingrove is the annual Christmas spectacular at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow’s West End. With a bigger ice rink this year, it’s time to get your skates on and enjoy the winter wonderland that has been set up in front of one of Glasgow’s most popular museums. There is more than ice skating to enjoy, however, with a 15-metre ‘snow wheel’ and food and drink options, as well as a dazzling light show. Suitable for all the family to enjoy, as well as date nights or catch ups with friends, it will most definitely be a memorable evening.

Have a Cosy Night in with Maldron

While going out and enjoying all that the city has to offer is what it’s all about, there’s no denying that the festive season can be quite tiring! With all the preparation, shopping, and events, the one thing you may be craving is some peace and quiet and time to relax. Think a hot chocolate, or even a mulled wine, a dreamily comfortable King Koil bed, and a 43” TV integrated with Chromecast. We are located in a prime position to enjoy all of the above recommendations, while also providing the much-needed comfort in our 4* rooms to allow you to settle in and watch a movie while the weather outside is oh-so-frightful. Book your Christmas hotel break today!