The festive season is finally upon us, which can only mean one thing…procrastinating by visiting all the Christmas markets and going to all the best Christmas events in Liverpool. While it’s not a good idea to forget about your studies completely, taking a break from time-to-time is definitely good for the soul. So we’ve provided a handy list of nearby things to do this Christmas season to help save you time. Whether you fancy a mug of mulled wine at the markets, trying your hand at wreath-making, or a Christmas craft fair, there’s something around for you!
1. Liverpool Christmas markets
The obvious choice if you’re looking for some festive fun, is the Christmas markets outside St George’s Hall in Liverpool. Organised by Liverpool City Council’s Culture team, the city’s Christmas market brings a perfect blend of local food, craft traders and delicious treats. What more could you ask for? There’s also activities for everyone, old and young, whether you’re looking for somewhere to take visiting family, or simply somewhere to enjoy a festive drink after a day in library. The market is running from 19th November until the 24th December this year, so make sure you pay a visit before you head home for Christmas!
2. Christmas Festival, Exhibition Centre
Gourmet street food, live music and…fire eating? This Christmas festival is like no other in Liverpool, mixing all the best parts of an event together to provide ultimate entertainment. There will be festive chicken burgers, Christmas turkey yorkypud wraps and much more to fill your stomach – including veggie options. There’s also a live band and DJ sets, including Indemand Radio guest DJs, so you can work off the meal dancing all night. Plus, there’s rides and circus style spectacles such as stilt walking! Tickets are a little on the higher end, but include plenty of food and an unforgettable experience. The event runs from the 2nd – 17th December, 2022.
3. The Lanterns at Chester Zoo
For any animal lovers, Chester Zoo is the perfect day out, let alone when they add a festive lantern trail. This could be the ideal evening trip for you and your flatmates, if you’re looking to get into some of the more wholesome Christmas festivities in the area. Described as a spectacular wonderland, the Lantern trail is running on selected dates until the 23rd December, with Adult tickets at £15. Getting to Chester Zoo is relatively easy from Liverpool, simply get the Merseyrail from Liverpool Central station to Chester, and then the X1 bus to Liverpool for 11 stops to the main entrance of the zoo.
4. Manchester Christmas Markets
If one Christmas market isn’t enough for you, why not hop on the train to Manchester to experience the wonders of their world-famous market? Sip a hot chocolate from a limited edition 2022 mug, while strolling around the city’s collection of craft and food stalls. You could also do a bit of Christmas shopping while you’re there, making the most of the Arndale centre and its surrounding department stalls! The markets are open until the 22nd December, with the Cathedral Gardens market extending until the 2nd January.
5. Liverpool Alpine Village at Bar Hütte
You may have noticed that the tree in Liverpool One is not just a big love-heart patterned tree, it is also home to a festive bar. Bar Hütte is an alpine wonderland themed bar with individual pods (or hüttes) for your group. Whether you want to play ‘prosecco pong’, try a wreath-making class, or singalong to Christmas karaoke, you’re bound to leave Bar Hütte having had a great time! It’s a fun and cosy atmosphere, with festive cocktails nonetheless! What more could you ask for? Warm up at this Christmas chalet by booking your lodge here.
6. Luna Winter Cinema, St George’s Hall
It’s back! Luna Cinema returns this year with a wonderfully wintery lineup. Set in the majestic St George’s Hall, enjoy your favourite festive flick as an organ brings classical masterpieces to life. This year you can see all the top Christmas films, including Die Hard, Elf, Home Alone and It’s a Wonderful Life. Tickets sell fast so make sure you get yours quickly!
7. Candlelight Holiday Special: Vivaldi and Mozart
Located at the Sefton Park Palm House event, expect an intimate a string quartet performance in exotic surroundings. For those looking for a more relaxed vibe this Christmas, be certain to check out the musical event, which promises to be safe, comfortable and cosy! The concert takes place on the 1st of December at 6pm and 8.30pm, book tickets here today.
8. Royal Albert Dock Light Walk
Finishing off with an event that truly captures the beauty of Liverpool; the light walk at the Docks is the perfect evening out for you and your flatmates before returning home for Christmas. The Albert Dock is stunning at night all year round, but at Christmas it’s magical! If you’re looking for a free yet festive evening out, why not pay the docks a visit and soak in the Christmas spirit. There’s free workshops on offer as well as new light installations. If you want to spice up the trip, then there are plenty of surrounding bars to try, where you can check out the various happy hour deals on offer.
Hopefully, we’ve helped to find the best Christmas events near Liverpool to get you into the festive mood until it’s time to go home for Christmas. If you still need inspiration for fun nights out with friends, make sure you check out these Instagram-worthy bars and get those holiday snaps in. Whatever you do, make sure you make festive memories in your favourite city that you won’t forget!
