9 things to do in Liverpool this Christmas

No other city does Christmas quite like Liverpool. We’ve created a list of some of our favourite festive things to do in the city so if you’re looking to get that warm, fuzzy feeling without drinking hot toddies, consider taking in some of the activities going on this Christmas…

1. Watch ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ on the big screen

Liverpool Philharmonic, Christmas Eve 11am or 2pm

Time to stop watching Sony Movies Christmas and head over to the Phil for a proper Christmas movie.

2. Buy presents from shops you don’t usually go into

Menkind comes to mind. So does L’Occitane. There are others.
(Don’t panic if you haven't started shopping, Liverpool ONE is open until 9pm on weeknights.)

3. Make believe you’re in Lapland

Christmas Ice Festival, Pier Head, 13 November - 5 January

Head down to the Pier Head for the closest thing to a winter wonderland we’re likely to have in these parts. You can practice your triple axel on the ice rink or try out the UK’s largest ever ice slide.

4. Feast your eyes on ONE big tree

You've probably seen it by now, it's hard to miss. Next time you're shopping at Liverpool ONE, stop to admire the 30m-high tannenbaum-shaped structure with its 280 colour-changing hearts. If the sight of the tree suddenly inspires you to sing the first verse of ‘Good King Wenceslas’, there’s carol-oke in the Alpine cabins underneath just for that purpose. Still haven’t had your fill of Christmas cheer? Then head over to Chavasse Park where you can hop aboard the Christmas Express and travel to a pop-up polar party. Xmas overload!

5. Find a present for that tricky person on your list

Winter Arts Market, Liverpool Cathedral, 7 December, 10am - 7pm

With over 200 stalls of arts and crafts in the majestic setting of the Liverpool Cathedral, the Winter Arts Market is the perfect place to find a unique gift. 

6. Catch up with Santa

Museum of Liverpool, 19 November – 9 January

Part of the famous winter wonderland grotto decorations of Blackler’s Department Store (1957-1988), a mega-size Father Christmas is on display at the Museum of Liverpool. No sitting on his lap though, this Santa prefers to stand.

7. Sip mulled wine at the Christmas market

Of course there are other only-tolerable-at-Christmas beverages such as snowballs, eggnog and Harvey’s Bristol Cream but mulled wine seems to be the drink of choice. Get over to the Christmas market to have a cup with some bratwurst or a hazelnut crepe – otherwise it just won’t be Christmas.

8. Catch a festive flick

Albert Dock Pop-up Floating Cinema, 27 November - 10 December
Luna Winter Cinema, St George’s Hall, 17 - 23 December

Take in a Christmas movie in a truly festive setting at the Albert Dock or within the magnificent St George’s Hall. They’ll be showing a range of favourites such as Elf, Love Actually, Die Hard, The Holiday, Home Alone, The Grinch, Muppet Christmas Carol and The Polar Express.

9. Fuel up on really, really sweet coffee

Any chain or independent café near you

Gingerbread latte, peppermint mocha, salted caramel cappuccino – is there even any coffee in these drinks? Does it matter anymore? It’s Christmas, this is what we do now. Let it froth!

Looking for even more things to do at Christmas? Check out some great places to get your festive food and drink. If you're a current LJMU student, take a look at the Student Opportunities blog so you can take advantage of some of the free and discounted events on offer. Also, take a look at our winter break guide for useful information to ensure you have a safe and happy winter break.