Glasgow Christmas Markets 2025: Hotels, Breaks & Tips

The Glasgow Christmas Market, popularly known as the Glasgow Winter Wonderland 2025, is back to light up the city with festive cheer. From handcrafted gifts to seasonal treats, there’s something for everyone. Take advantage of our exclusive hotel offers to make your festive break even more convenient. Scroll down for key details on locations, opening hours, and tips to plan your perfect visit.

Glasgow Christmas Market Dates, Location and Tips

Experience the festive magic of Glasgow this December, where every street corner feels like a winter wonderland. From lively Christmas markets to cosy pop-up bars serving mulled wine, there’s something for everyone looking to get into the holiday spirit. Take in the city’s unique mix of culture, music, and mouth-watering treats as you wander through its snow-kissed squares.

The best Christmas markets in Glasgow

Glasgow transforms beautifully at Christmas, its historic buildings bathed in soft festive light and its streets buzzing with the sound of laughter, music, and holiday cheer. Whether you’re wandering in search of gifts or simply soaking up the atmosphere, the city’s mix of tradition and excitement sets the perfect winter scene. Here are 2 markets you should visit.

1. St Enoch Square Christmas Market

Entry fee: Free entry.
Location: St Enoch Square, Glasgow G1 4BW.
How to reach the Christmas Market:

By Bus: Numerous local buses stop at or near St Enoch Square, including services from First Glasgow and McGill’s.
By Train: Glasgow Central Station is just a 5-minute walk away, and Glasgow Queen Street Station is also within walking distance.
By Tram: Not applicable, as Glasgow does not have a tram network.
By Car: Located in the city centre, St Enoch Square is accessible via major routes like the M8. Parking is available at St Enoch Centre Car Park (G1 4EQ), just adjacent to the market.

Opening dates: 6 November to 24 December 2025
Opening times: It will be open from 12pm until 9pm Sunday to Thursday, and from 10am until 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
Decorations: St Enoch Square is transformed with glowing wooden chalets, twinkling fairy lights, and an eye-catching central Christmas tree that sparkles well into the evening. The surrounding buildings are also lit up, adding to the festive ambience. Expect warm golden lights, giant baubles, and seasonal music filling the air.
Best Activities to do: The star attraction this year is the world’s first solar-powered observation wheel, offering incredible views of Glasgow’s festive lights from above. Visitors can also enjoy a fully licensed Festive Bar, making its first appearance in Scotland, along with live music throughout the event. Expect a lively mix of entertainment, family-friendly fun, and seasonal performances that add even more warmth and excitement to the market.
Food to try: This market is a great place to indulge in festive food from around the world. Don’t miss the traditional bratwurst, hog roast rolls, Dutch pancakes, and German pretzels. Mulled wine and hot chocolate with whipped cream are local favourites to keep your hands warm.
Shopping: Look out for hand-poured candles, woollen hats and scarves, Scottish shortbread, and beautifully carved wooden decorations. The market is also a great place to pick up novelty Christmas gifts, artisan soaps, and small-batch spirits.

2. Glasgow Green Christmas Market

Entry fee: Free entry.
Location: George Square, Glasgow G2 1DU.
How to reach the Christmas Market:

By Bus: Glasgow Green is centrally located and accessible via local buses. (As the market is city-centre, buses from various parts of Glasgow serve nearby stops.)
By Train: Glasgow city centre train stations (e.g. Glasgow Central or Queen Street) are within walkable distance to Glasgow Green, making the market easy to reach by rail.
By Car: Glasgow Green sits close to the city centre and is accessible via major routes, including the M8, M74, and M77. Nearby parking options include facilities around the Glasgow Green area, such as Greendyke Street Parking and other local car parks within walking distance.

Opening dates: The market runs from 21 November 2025 to 4 January 2026.
Opening times: It will be open from 3pm until 10pm on Monday to Friday, and from 12pm until 10pm on Saturday and Sunday
Decorations: Glasgow Green is transformed into a festive winter playground: think glowing lights, seasonal décor, and festive stalls. There’s a large Christmas tree, charming market chalets, and decorations that turn the park into a glowing holiday hub under the night sky. A variety of rides, entertainment venues and festive settings add to the atmosphere (ice rink, carousel, etc).
Best Activities to do: Take a whirl around the open-air ice rink and enjoy that classic winter feeling as you glide under the festive lights. When you want a bit more excitement, the fairground comes alive with everything from high energy rides for thrill seekers to gentler attractions for families. If you prefer something cosy, step into the festive tent known as the Big Top, where live theatre, pantos and storytelling sessions bring plenty of Christmas charm to your visit.
Food to try: Stalls and food-hubs offer seasonal treats, from warm drinks to hearty meals, making it a great place to indulge in comfort food while soaking up the atmosphere.
Shopping: Browse a variety of festive items, from hand-crafted jewellery and tartan accessories to personalised Christmas decorations. You’ll also find local art prints and gourmet food products perfect for gifting.

Tips

When is the best time to visit the Glasgow Christmas Markets?

Weekday mornings or early afternoons are the best times to visit if you prefer a quieter experience. Weekends and evenings tend to be the busiest. If you're keen on a more relaxed stroll and easier access to stalls, try visiting just after the markets open.

Do the stalls accept card payments or should I carry cash?

Most stalls now accept card payments, including contactless, but it's still wise to carry a small amount of cash. Some independent vendors or smaller food stands may be cash-only, especially for low-value items.

What should I wear to the Christmas Markets in Glasgow?

Glasgow can be cold and damp in December, so layering is key. Make sure to wear a warm waterproof coat, sturdy shoes or boots, and don’t forget gloves, a hat, and a scarf - especially if you plan to stay after dark when temperatures drop further. If you're bringing children, extra layers are a good idea as they may spend longer outdoors enjoying the rides and activities.

Where to stay in Glasgow?

Staying in the city centre is ideal, as it places you within walking distance of both George Square and St Enoch Square Christmas markets. You'll also be surrounded by Glasgow's top shops, restaurants, and attractions, making it easy to explore beyond the festivities. Don’t forget to check out exclusive discounts on hotel stays available on this page for great value during your festive getaway.

Other things to do while in Glasgow

This lively Scottish city offers a variety of activities beyond the enchanting Christmas markets, perfect for filling your festive itinerary.

Explore Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: This free-to-enter museum showcases everything from art and design to natural history, housed in a grand red sandstone building.
Tour Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis: Step back in time with a visit to this 12th-century cathedral and its neighbouring Victorian cemetery, offering panoramic views of the city.
Visit the Riverside Museum and Tall Ship: Discover Glasgow’s transport history in this award-winning museum, and climb aboard the restored Glenlee ship docked right outside.
Shop along Buchanan Street: This bustling pedestrianised shopping street is beautifully decorated for Christmas and home to both high-street brands and designer labels.
Catch a show at the King’s Theatre or SEC Armadillo: From Christmas pantomimes to live concerts, Glasgow’s venues host a fantastic range of performances during the festive season.

Christmas Traditions in Scotland

Christmas in Scotland is a joyous blend of local customs and broader UK traditions, with festive lights, decorated high streets, and cosy gatherings at the heart of it all. While Hogmanay (New Year’s) remains Scotland’s biggest celebration, Christmas has grown in prominence, with many cities hosting markets, carol services, and community events. Families often celebrate with a roast dinner, Christmas crackers, and the exchanging of gifts on 25th December. In many Scottish homes, you’ll also find a blend of Celtic folklore and modern cheer, making the festive season uniquely charming.

Where else to go in Scotland for Christmas Markets?

Beyond Glasgow, Scotland boasts several other festive cities and towns that are perfect for Christmas market lovers. From historic settings to coastal charm, these destinations each bring their own seasonal sparkle.

Edinburgh: The Edinburgh Christmas Market is set beneath the backdrop of the castle, with an ice rink, traditional German stalls, and dazzling light displays throughout Princes Street Gardens.
Aberdeen: Aberdeen’s Christmas Village features a mix of food, craft stalls, funfair rides, and a popular open-air ice rink, creating a lively festive experience in the Granite City.
Dundee: Dundee’s city centre transforms with light installations, artisan stalls, and family-friendly entertainment, including a mini festive fairground.
Perth: Perth hosts a charming winter market with a strong focus on Scottish-made products, perfect for those seeking local gifts and festive delicacies in a picturesque riverside setting.