A guide to Glasgow’s hidden festive gems

By Jenna Morrison

With presents to buy and parties to attend, Christmas time can be crazy. However, when the working month calms down and we all have more time, there is nothing better than indulging in festivities. Whether you prefer relaxing at the cinema, arts and crafts or a drink with friends - there is an event suitable for everybody. Glasgow has a lot to offer on the lead up to Christmas.

Something for the Film lovers

The beloved Sloans, one of Glasgow’s most iconic pubs, is showing Christmas films throughout December. Their EatFilm event includes film entry, a 2-course meal, and a cocktail – all for £24pp. Here you can watch classics such as: Santa Clause, Home Alone and The Grinch.

https://www.sloansglasgow.com/eatfilmchristmas

Or why not take a trip to Glasgow’s oldest cinema where you can watch a range of festive favourites with a loved one. Perfect for a Christmas date night, the Grosvener welcomes guests in their intimate and comfortable cinema screens.

https://grosvenorpicturetheatre.co.uk/christspec/

If you are interested in something different from your usual night at the pictures, check out the IMAX this Christmas - located at Glasgow’s Braehead, just a short journey from the City Centre. Here you can watch your favourite blockbusters in 3D, some being; The Polar Express and Elf.

Feeling Crafty?

The Craft Pottery in Glasgow is a workshop space that focuses on pottery and painting classes. This month they have themed evenings almost every night of the week. Expect festive soundtracks and Christmas colour palettes. There are your typical themes such as “The Grinchmas” and “Snowy Paint and sip” as well as nights for a more niche crowd – fancy “Taylor swift-mas”? You can even bring your own drinks!

https://www.instagram.com/thecraftpottery/?hl=en

Christmas Crafts have never been more popular. Braw Wee Craft Club is a studio specialising in wreath and decoration making located on West George Street, just a five-minute walk from Central Station. There are classes running until the 17th of December but be fast - there are limited spaces!

Christmas Markets

If you want to embrace Glaswegian culture, take yourself down to the infamous Barras markets. The markets are open as normal every Saturday and Sunday with special Christmas markets on between the 21st and the 24th. Indulge in delicious street food, take a stroll round all the weird and wonderful stalls – there are endless things to do here. This is an enjoyable day out for the whole family, dogs are welcome too. Why not end day with a festive drink at any of the surrounding pubs?

https://www.barrasmarket.com/events

If you would prefer to browse markets in the comfort of warmth, Alchemy experiment on Byres Road is hosting their festive markets on the 16th and 17th of the month. Here you will find the perfect Christmas gifts amongst the many stalls. Expect clothing, trinkets and work by local artists and designers. Not to mention the gorgeous hot drinks available at their café.

https://www.alchemyexperiment.com/festive-markets-2023

Fancy a Merry Quiz-mas?

Join the lovely staff at Vinyl bar for their ultimate Christmas quiz on the 21st of December. The quiz kicks off at 7.00pm at the London Road venue - perfect for those finishing a shift in Glasgow’s City Centre! Tickets are £5 which can be bought in advance and prizes include a bar tab, festive vinyl’s and more surprises.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/never-gonna-quiz-you-up-quizmas-special-tickets-765353261207

Alternatively, Committee Room No.9 is hosting a Christmas quiz on the 20th of December. This place is a hit with students, known for its great mid-week deals. The quiz will begin at 9.00pm. Entry for the quiz is completely free making this both fun and budget friendly.