The arched stone cloister of the University of Glasgow adorned with strings of golden fairy lights in the evening.
The Cloisters at The University of Glasgow
Glasgow has exciting events, shopping and fantastic places to eat and drink. Here is our guide to the top things to do in the city this winter.

Experience the iconic Celtic Connections festival

Glasgow is home to Celtic Connections. The world’s leading folk, roots and world music festival. Take in music from around the world with hundreds of events to choose from. The festival warms up the winter nights from 15 January1 February 2026. Check out Celtic Connections to find out more.

A performance hall with a large choir on risers and a group of musicians on stage, performing for a seated audience.
Celtic Connections performance at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall

Shout "they're behind you" at a pantomime

The panto is a brilliant day out for the whole family. And in Glasgow, you're spoiled for choice. Some of this year's pantos include Jock and the Beanstalk, The Little Mermaid and Gallus in Weegieland.

Visit Pavilion Theatre, King's Theatre and Tron Theatre for ticket info.

The audience in the grand King's Theatre gives a standing ovation. Ornate balconies, spotlight beams, and a vibrant crowd create an atmosphere of excitement and admiration.
The King's Theatre

Visit one of Glasgow's world-class museums

Discover the wonders of Glasgow's museums. The award-winning Burrell Collection is in the beautiful surroundings of Pollok Park. Why not make a day of it? After you've explored the museum, grab a coffee and head to see the Highland cows.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is another wonderful family day out. With 22 galleries, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Check out the Alasdair Gray display, where nine works are on show for the first time. For more details, visit Glasgow Life.

Grand interior of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. A Spitfire plane hangs from the ceiling over taxidermy animals, with ornate balconies and a glass roof above.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Watch music by candlelight

Enjoy live music by candlelight in some of Glasgow's most beautiful venues. From ABBA to Coldplay to Taylor Swift, there’s a range of different music for everyone. Visit Fever for a list of Glasgow concerts coming up.

Audience watching a candlelit string quartet performance inside Òran Mór, with fairy lights and arched stone architecture.
Candlelight concert

See stars of stage and screen at Glasgow Film Festival

Film buffs should check out the Glasgow Film Festival from 25 February to 8 March. The festival champions new talent and offers a wide-ranging programme. It features the best of Scottish film and the rest of the world. Enjoy world premieres, special events, and guest Q&As. Visit Glasgow Film Festival for more information.

Or why not enjoy awards season before that? Watch the winners and nominees at the Glasgow Film Theatre (GFT) or Everyman Cinema. Go to GFT or Everyman Cinema for tickets.

The brightly lit front of the Glasgow Film Theatre (GFT) building at dusk, with its red sign glowing.
Glasgow Film Theatre

Go on a winter walk

Get rosy cheeks with a stroll on a crisp, winter day. Take a look at our top winter walks suggestions in Glasgow.

A cyclist in a yellow jacket rides along a snow-covered path lined with bare trees in Kelvingrove Park.
Kelvingrove Park

A Play, a Pie and a Pint

Enjoy a lunchtime play with a pie and a pint at the beautiful Òran Mór. What's not to love? To see what's on, visit A Play, a Pie and a Pint.

Shop local

Buy from one of Glasgow’s many independent shops to support local artists and creators. Check out our guide to independent shopping for inspiration this Christmas.

A cobbled alleyway with colourful buildings, including a small blue shop with a sign that reads "25."
The Hidden Lane

Enjoy performances at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall

Book to see a show at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall. Watch the Christmas classic Home Alone in concert. Or why not go to a magical screening of the festive classic, The Snowman? Both performances feature the Royal Scottish National Orchestra (RSNO). Check out what’s on at Glasgow Life Tickets.

The Royal Scottish National Orchestra on stage at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, standing to receive applause.
RSNO at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall

Relax in the pub

Head to one of the city’s many cosy pubs for a warming tipple. Read about some of our favourites in our cosy pubs guide.

A dark, cosy bar and bookstore with wood-panelled walls and a patterned ceiling. Bookshelves filled with books surround the room. People sit at tables, enjoying drinks.
The Last Bookstore

Article last updated: October 2025

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