Things to do in Liverpool on Christmas Eve

In the words of the classic Slade song, it’s Christmasssssss!

There’s so much going on in the city and the celebrations can really start on Christmas Eve when most of us have clocked off from work and got in proper ‘Santa’s coming’ mode.

From pantos, the Christmas Market, cosy pubs and cocktails – and even a bit of last-minute shopping – Liverpool’s got the lot.

Liverpool Christmas Market

The Christmas market will really get those jingle bells ringing in your ears with fabulous craft stalls, loads of great places to eat – including the famous Spud Man van – bars and rides and activities, and plenty of festive selfie spots with life size Nutcrackers and Polar Bears to capture the magical memories. It’s open until 5pm.

Go and watch a pantomime

Nothing says Christmas like a bit of booing and hissing at a panto and the city region’s got a few fab ones to choose from including Sleeping Beauty at the Floral Pavilion in New Brighton starring former Eternal singer Kelle Bryan; Jack and the Beanstalk, the Everyman’s favourite Rock n’ Roll panto, and Cinderella with Corrie’s Katie McGlynn at the Epstein.

Christmas on the Park at Liverpool ONE

Christmas on the Park was created especially for families so it’s ideal for that final festive outing before the big day itself. There’s children’s rides, festive games, food and drink and tasty treats, and it’s there until January 1 – so if you do get stuck peeling spuds and wrapping pressies, you can still enjoy it for a whole week after.

Shop in Liverpool ONE stores

There’s always one gift you’ve forgotten or not managed to get hold of but – fear not! Liverpool ONE’s stores from chain favourites to independents and boutique shops are open until 5pm selling everything from chocs to smellies, fashion, homeware, and everything else in between. You might even fit in a meal or a crafty cocktail in one of its amazing bars and restaurants.

Cathedral services

Soak up the meaning of the season with some carols or a traditional Christmas service in one of the city’s two cathedrals. At Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral that means family-friendly services and atmospheric evening worship with uplifting music, prayer, and carols that capture the heart of Christmas from 11am to 11.30pm; and at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King First Vespers of Christmas and Blessing of the Crib at 3pm; the Christmas Vigil Mass at 6pm, and Midnight Mass starting at 11.45pm.

Cheshire Oaks

Cheshire Oaks is always fab for the festivities with its annual Christmas lights and Winter Village boasting the UK’s tallest Christmas tree, market stalls, food, and other festive attractions like ice skating and Santa’s rides on the Ferris wheel – along with loads of shops selling all your designer gifts and party outfits at discount prices of course. You can make the most of the magic until 5pm on Christmas Eve.

Tuck into the Pen Factory

If the dazzling decorations don’t get you into the festive spirit, the mouthwatering Christmas menu at this popular Hope Street venue will. Fancy feasting early? Then how about a Christmas Eve meal with starters including chilli and ginger king prawns and honey and cider chorizo, or mains including Cornish hake, smoked chicken supreme and spiced 8oz lamb rump – and loads of fantastic desserts. Go on … it’s Christmas, you’re allowed!

Find more info here.

See the lights and shop local at the Royal Albert Dock 

The Albert Dock’s looking as gorgeous as ever this Christmas with sparkling lights and deccies throughout the colonnades and Bella and Bertie looking all glam and festive as ever. You can enjoy a city trip to see the spectacular illuminations – and shop for a unique gift in one of its incredible indie stores.

Cosy pubs like The Monro, Dog & Collar or The Bridewell

Christmas and Boxing Day can be really busy, so why not take a moment and sit and chill in one of our friendly and intimate city pubs. You can enjoy roaring fires, fabulous festive decorations – have you seen the Dog & Collar because their special Santa and goodies lights display is definitely worth a photo! – and relax with a pint, a glass of fizz, or a cracking Christmas cocktail.

Visit Southport with the family

From its glitzy illuminations like the Bear and the Reindeer and the Musical Christmas Tree to the food at its amazing market, Silcock’s Funland at the Pier, panto, cracking shops and some of the best bars and restaurants, Southport’s got it all for a boss Christmas Eve day out – with bells on! And if you’re feeling brave, or you need a fix of fresh air, take a walk on the beautiful (breezy) sandy beach.

Enjoy festive food at Hawksmoor, San Carlo or Barnacle

Liverpool’s lucky to have some of the most amazing restaurants offering the finest cuisine from around the world so if you can’t wait for your turkey roast on December 25, why not treat yourself to a Christmas Eve feast? Our favourite Italian go-to San Carlo in Castle Street is offering its most luxurious Christmas Fayre menu yet from £48.50 per person, and steaks supremo Hawksmoor is pressing pause on the chaos and remembering what makes it special – great food, brilliant people, and a few festive touches done properly (their cows in blankets are the best!). Meanwhile you can help Barnacle enjoy their first Christmas in Hardman Street with their special Christmas Eve dining experience being served from midday to 4pm.

Christmas cocktails at The Municipal Hotel

The Palm Court bar at the incredible Dale Street Hotel’s got a new collection of Hero Cocktails that capture the spirit of Liverpool in every glass. The Love to Liverpool cocktail menu includes ‘Boss Tha’ with Grey Goose, Cherry Cordial, Absolut Vanilla, Chambord, Lapsang Tea, and Municipal Champagne. It’s looking as glittery at Santa’s grotto right now so you can toast the season in style.

A Christmas Eve day out at Roxy Ball Room

As always Roxy’s packed with fun and festive vibes and it’s got some brilliant packages to get your Christmas party started, from Drink & Sleigh with any drink and a game from £10, to Festive Faceoff for food, a welcome drink, drinks vouchers and game from £50. Great value – and great fun!

Drinks at PINS Social Club

You can’t miss PINS out this Christmas, so even if you’ve not got time for games, don’t forget to call in for drinks and see it at its seasonal best. PINS has transformed its rooftop into an Alpine-themed retreat with fire pits and cuddly throws, and as well as sparkling lights, it’s got cocktails, karaoke cabins, and live music.

There’s just no excuse for not having yourself a very Merry Christmas Eve in the city.