Top things to do in 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 January–1 February 2026. Check out Celtic Connections to find out more.

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.

Take in a live show
Cosy up on a winter evening with world-class theatre, comedy, dance, and live shows across Glasgow’s stages. It’s a great way to escape the cold, and experience the city’s vibrant arts scene. Visit our what's on section to find out what you can see.

Celebrate Burns Night
Celebrate Scotland’s national poet with haggis, whisky, music, and dance. A festive way to warm up and enjoy Scottish culture in January. Check out our guide to Burns Night events.

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.

Take a winter ice cream tour
Enjoy Glasgow’s Ice Cream Passport Tour, a trail celebrating 5 of the city’s best independent ice cream makers. Pick up a passport, explore neighbourhood favourites across Glasgow, and collect stamps to earn free scoops. It's a sweet way to discover the city, even on chilly days. Find out more on Instagram.
See stars of stage and screen at Glasgow Film Festival
Film buffs should check out the Glasgow Film Festival from 25 February–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.

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 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.

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.

Article last updated: January 2026


