Top things to do in winter

A brand-new lighting trail transforms Glasgow into a festive wonderland until 3 January.

To celebrate 850 years of Glasgow, local artists and schoolchildren helped design 5 fun lighting displays across the city. Spot the illuminated installations while exploring the city. Find out more at Glasgow Life.

Browse some of the city’s best Christmas markets and fairs to experience some festive spirit or pick up a gift or 2. Visit our Christmas markets page for our top picks.

Every year, the iconic Irn-Bru Carnival brings it's magic to the Scottish Event Campus. Think Europe’s biggest indoor carnival, packed with over 75 rides and attractions. From teacups and hook-a-duck to dodgems and waltzers, it’s a proper Glasgow day out. Book in advance to save at Irn Bru Carnival.

Spending New Year in Glasgow? Whether you want an all-night rave or a traditional ceilidh, there’s something for everyone. Check out our guide to the top 10 New Year’s Eve events for inspiration.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.