Glasgow Christmas markets, lights switch on and festive events - all the big dates for your calendar

With Christmas getting ever closer, Glasgow is already beginning to look very festive with shops across the city centre decking the halls and sporting plenty of decorations.

With St Enoch's Square already transformed into the first part of Winterfest and the Christmas tree being raised in George Square, it won't be long until we are fully ready for the celebrations.

Ahead of the big Christmas light switch on this weekend (Sunday, November 17) and the light show at the City Chambers, as well as the launch of the George Square Winterfest next weekend, we've put together a guide to all the times and dates you need.

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George Square Winterfest

George Square will once again be transformed into a stunning winter festival this month with an array of thrilling attractions such as the 80m Drop Tower, the Booster Maxx Carousel, the Wave Swinger, the Helter Skelter and a Santa’s Train Kids Carousel.

The much-loved ice rink, where you can glide through the winter wonderland, will return, with tickets on sale now.

Food lovers can enjoy a variety of delicious treats, including grilled dishes, salt and chilli specialities, Yorkshire puddings, and more.

Sweet options such as Churros and freshly made Crepes will also be available.

When: From November 23 until January 5.

Where: George Square

Price: Free to enter but some of the attractions such as the big wheel and the ice rink will cost extra. The ice rink can be booked in advance.

Glasgow Christmas Lights Switch On

On Sunday November 17, Glasgow’s Christmas lights switch-on will mark the start of the festive season for many.

Opening times: Entry gates to George Square will open to ticket holders at 5pm before musical acts and theatre stars kick-off an evening of lively performances.

Where: George Square

What's happening? The event, hosted by Clyde 1 presenters George Bowie and Cassi Gillespie, will feature live entertainment from uplifting girl group tribute band On Repeat, an appearance by the Pavilion Theatre’s Beauty and the Beastie panto stars, the wonderful Soul Nation Choir and Scottish singer-songwriting sensation Nathan Evans will take to the stage with musical duo SAINT PHNX in an exciting collaboration.

The big switch on takes place at 7pm.

Price: Free

Can you still get tickets? Sadly not, the tickets were available only to those who applied by ballot and have all now been snapped up.

City Chambers Festive Light Show

As part of the festive fun around George Square, Glasgow's most spectacular building, the City Chambers will be stunningly illuminated with a light and projection show inspired by the likes of North Pole, Santa’s Workshop, and even Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

When: From November 17 2024 to January 1 2025, the light show will run from 3.30pm until midnight

Where: Glasgow City Chambers, George Square

Price: Free

Princes Square Christmas Light Switch on

The popular shopping and food destination is hosting its very own light switch on with Santa and his band of elves set to welcome people in to kick the season off in style.

When: Sunday, November 17, 2pm - 6pm

Where: Princes Square, Buchanan Street

Price: Free

West End Christmas Light Switch On

The 2024 festive season in Glasgow’s West End officially kicks off on Sunday, November 24 with the annual Christmas Lights Switch On Event, hosted by VisitWestEnd in Vinicombe Street.

There will be music from local choirs, bands, and musicians and market stalls featuring a wide range of goods from local businesses—the perfect opportunity to find that special gift for someone (or maybe even yourself!)

Local presenter and DJ Josie Smith will join us again this year to host the day. Performers include Sabrina Mandulu, Voice of the Town and Rock Choir.

VisitWestEnd is delighted to announce that it will be linking up again with the team from Social Bite and their Festival of Kindness. They will be manning their stall from Sunday, November 24, right up to Christmas to receive donations from the public.

When: Sunday, November 24

The times: The market opens at 11 am and the musical entertainment starts at noon. The Social Bite tree will be switched on at 5.30 pm.

Where: Vinicombe Street

Price: Free

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