Why Liverpool is the best place to celebrate Christmas

Twinkling lights in the streets, the scent of mulled wine and boss Crimbo food wafting through the air… It might be freezing outside, but the bustling atmosphere of the city during Christmas gives a warmth that could thaw even the chilliest of hearts.

We love a little festive one, and yes we might be biased, but Liverpool is definitely the best place to celebrate Christmas!

From the magnificent Christmas Markets, to phenomenal entertainment and events… and not to mention we’ve got one of the best food and drink scenes in the country!

Here’s why Liverpool is the best place to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.

World-class Entertainment

The city has got loads of brilliant events during Christmas. From enchanting carol concerts to hilarious pantos, Liverpool’s entertainment scene is second to none.

This year the iconic Everyman Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto is telling the story of Cinderella, with heaps of sass, silliness, and sparkle.

Aladdin flies into St Helens Theatre Royal this Christmas with Emmerdale’s Liam Fox making his professional panto debut as the evil Abanazer, and panto royalty Leanne Campbell will appear digitally as the magical ‘Genie of the Mirror’.

The iconic St George’s Hall is hosting lots of candle light concerts, and Alder Hey Children’s Hospital is holding their Jolly Oli Christmas Concert there to raise money to make patients’ experiences even better!

You can catch the hilarious Scouse Dick Whittington at Liverpool’s Royal Court… It’s got the live band, the great gags, and some pretty rude words… so best to leave the kids at home for this one! 

Check out stunning light trails like Enchanted at Knowsley Safari or The Magical Woodland at Blakemere – there’s so much happening for the little ones across the winter so there’s plenty to keep them entertained.

Check out our calendar for more festive events HERE!

Christmas Shopping

When it comes to Christmas shopping, Liverpool ONE is a game-changer. This retail hub offers a diverse range of stores, from John Lewis to unique specialty shops like Utility, ensuring that you can find the ideal gifts for your loved ones.

The festive decorations and joyful atmosphere enhance the shopping experience, making it a delightful seasonal treat… and if you had the chance to catch their Christmas LIVE! event then you’ll know what we’re talking about

This Christmas at Metquarter you can expect a festive extravaganza with something for everyone, throughout November and December. So it’s perfect if you’re looking for a unique Christmas gift, wanting to enjoy some festive food and drink, or to get involved in some winter-warmer activities!

A staple within Liverpool’s retail history, a trip to Metquarter promises art, fashion, street food and entertainment, with a sprinkle of Christmas wrapped in every visit this winter period. 

St Johns Shopping Centre’s been a great ‘go-to’ for more than 50 years, and it’s still a city favourite for anyone in search of fashion, food – and fun.

Part of the iconic Radio City Tower building and just two minutes’ walk from Queen Square bus station, and Lime Street and Central train stations, St Johns Shopping Centre is full of local stores and household names like The Perfume Shop, Matalan, Argos, and Home Bargains.

For more on Shopping in Liverpool click HERE.

Festive Food and Drink

Liverpool’s culinary scene hits all the right notes during Christmas. From traditional hearty roasts to delectable seasonal treats, the city’s restaurants, pubs, and street vendors serve up a mouthwatering array of dishes.

Make your Christmas at Smoke & Dough memorable – whether it’s transforming a shopping trip into an exceptional day out at Liverpool ONE or gathering with friends for a fun-filled time, this eatery is the perfect destination! With its lively and warm atmosphere, stylish décor – and some amazing decorations right now – it’s also the ideal place to spend a special occasion!

The Municipal Hotel are putting on a Festive Afternoon Tea with mulled wine or Municipal Champagne for £46pp… and we’ve heard on good authority that the chocolate orange cheesecake is delicious!

The new seasonal menu ‘Alpine Wanderlust’ at Albert’s Schloss is an exciting and indulgent new menu documenting the European escapades of the beloved Prince Albert. Each drink has been inspired by dreamy winter destinations, including Europe’s finest chalets with the Grey Goose Hot Schokolade, made to a traditional European recipe.

Free State Kitchen will be serving up a festive burger with a homemade chicken, sage and onion patty, bacon, brie, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and topped with a pig in blanket… served with gravy and fries!

Derek’s on Allerton Road have added a Holiday Hoagie to their menu… imagine a Christmas dinner on a butty, you can’t go wrong.

If you’re looking to find out more on food and drink in Liverpool click HERE.

The Christmas Markets

Everybody’s favourite Christmas Market is back in town! With all the usual favourite festive food and fun offerings.

Set around St George’s Plateau, William Brown Street and St John’s Gardens, there’s crafters and makers selling unique gifts, decorations, art, crafts, and jewellery, along with a range of bars – like the tipi bar, ski bar, windmill bar, and the Bavarian bar – and rides for the kids!

For more on the Christmas Market click HERE.

Boss Night Out

Liverpool doesn’t just sparkle during the day; it comes alive even more when the night falls, especially during Christmas. The city’s vibrant nightlife offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking a good time after sundown.

From themed Christmas parties and lively pubs to dazzling cocktail bars and dance clubs, Liverpool’s nightlife scene pulsates with energy and merriment during the festive season. Whether you’re into intimate gatherings with friends, live music events, or dancing the night away, Liverpool has a load of options to ensure your nights are as merry as can be.

Put on your dancing shoes and head over to Mamasan for their Dim Sum Disco Bottomless Brunch, which combines the best of South East Asian food and gorgeous drinks with a soundtrack of fabulous floor fillers! Brunch goers will be able to choose three small plates or one large plate, with options for less than 500 calories for anyone who’s counting, as well as enjoying 90 minutes of bottomless premium drinks including Mamasan’s signature cocktails.

Check out the new Roxy Lanes venue which has opened just in time for all those great Christmas nights out with your work pals and your mates. It’s located on School Lane and focuses on ten pin bowling, as well as other activities like American pool, shuffleboard, ice-free curling, tech darts, karaoke, beer pong, and more!

Step Into Christmas with Jonny Bongo and the gang – and special guest star Heather Small at the Bongos Bingo Christmas Special. There are 17 festive dates in total with six already sold out, so if you want to get your eyes down for 2023’s Elton John-Inspired Bingo, cheesy singalongs, fab prizes and all the usual Bongo fun at CONCERT, you’d better get booking now before each November and December date is shouting full house!

For more on nightlife in the city click HERE.

We’ve barely started to scratch the surface with everything you can do in the city, and what makes it the most special place to celebrate this wonderful time of year! Don’t forget to check out “Your Ultimate Guide To Christmas in Liverpool” HERE!

For the latest news in Liverpool click HERE.