Royal Albert Dock Liverpool set to shine as it launches ‘Light Up Your Christmas’

The Royal Albert Dock Liverpool will shine brighter than ever as it launches ‘Light Up Your Christmas’, bringing free family-friendly experiences and a series of new illuminated installations to the city’s iconic destination, along with welcoming Alder Hey’s inaugural Santa Paddle.

Festivities begin on 29th November, when visitors can meet a cast of interactive characters on stilts. From 1pm to 5pm, bubble-blowing candy canes and cheeky elves will roam around the inner quay, greeting children and spreading festive cheer.

After dark, the waterfront will welcome Alder Hey Children’s Charity fundraising event, Santa Paddle, which the dock is proudly supporting. Featuring a 2.5km parade of illuminated kayaks and canoes adorned in Christmas decorations, the route will go from Queen’s Dock through Salthouse Dock and into the inner quay at approximately 6:30pm. The event is also being championed by the Canal & River Trust, who manage the waterways, and is set to be a delightful occasion for all involved.

On the night, visitors can also enjoy a close encounter with a life-like animatronic polar bear, appearing for one evening only in 30-minute sessions at 5:15pm, 6:15pm and 7:15pm. At the same time, a brass band will fill the air with Christmas classics on the inner quay, and local Liverpool choir, Make Noise, will create an enchanting soundtrack. From 4pm to 8pm, light-up snow queens on stilts will also bring a shimmering spectacle to the waterfront.

As part of the Dock Shorts campaign, a stunning projection will light-up the facade of the Maritime Museum to create a magical backdrop. An Alder Hey projection will be showcased on 29th November to coincide with the Santa Paddle, followed by the dock’s Christmas-themed animation running from 30th November throughout December. Brand new Christmas lights around the dock will also add to the festive atmosphere, creating an eye-catching destination like no other.

As Christmas draws closer, interactive characters will return from 1pm to 5pm on weekends from 6th to 14th December. Visitors can expect to see the return of the candy canes and elves in addition to drumming toy soldiers and classic gingerbread men, ideal for family photos. Celebrations will conclude from 21st to 23rd December, when the dock will grant one special wish for a lucky child, with more information to be announced soon.

Warm up with seasonal treats and festive flavours across the dock’s restaurants and bars. Enjoy Mediterranean-inspired dishes at Maray, including Turkey Kofta and the iconic Maray Sprouts with chestnut tahini and cranberry, or opt for traditional Christmas fare such as Turkey Involtini and Christmas pudding at Gusto. Raise a glass with limited-edition cocktails at Revolution, or toast the season at Bar Glue, one of the UK’s top 50 cocktail bars.

Find the perfect gift to place under the tree at the dock’s independent retailers. Lost Soles for unique men’s clothing, House of Spells for magical TV and movie collectables, Nature’s Treasure for crystals and accessories, The Nest for handmade homeware and one-of-a-kind gifts, and much more.

Sean Morrison, Estate Manager at Royal Albert Dock, says:

“Christmas is always a special time at the dock, and this year we’re excited to make it our most magical yet. Light Up Your Christmas brings families, local partners and the wider community together to showcase the true spirit of the season. We can’t wait to welcome visitors and see the dock filled with festive cheer.”

Andrew Goudie, North West Harbour Manager at Canal & River Trust, added:

“Our charity is extremely proud to support and host the first-ever Santa Paddle at the docks. It promises to be a magical experience for everyone attending the festivities that will light up the waterfront, which is always extra special at this time of year.”

Experience the magic of the season at Royal Albert Dock, where family-friendly experiences, illuminated installations and festive dining come together to Light Up Your Christmas, with more information to be announced.

To support Alder Hey’s Children’s Charity and their Santa Paddle event, text SANTAPADDLE to 70580 to donate £5. Texts cost the donation amount plus one standard network rate message.