Planning a weekend staycation before Christmas? If you’re travelling from anywhere else in the UK, Liverpool makes a fantastic choice. Arts, culture and sports merge effortlessly in the city, providing a seamless blend of entertainment for the everyone to enjoy. No matter your usual style, it’s always worth knowing about some of the most exciting reasons to visit Liverpool in December.
Why visit Liverpool in December?
1. The Christmas Markets
With the picturesque and festive backdrop of William Brown Street and St. George’s Plateau, Liverpool Christmas Market returns for 2023 in full swing. Set to open from the 18 November all the way through until Christmas Eve, it’s the perfect chance to meet up with friends, buy some unique and authentic gifts for the family, and try some delicious street food.
2. Anfield Family Fun Tour
Liverpool FC defines an integral part of the city’s culture. If you’re a football fan or visiting the city with someone who is, visiting the stadium should be at the top of your list. Special appearances from the club mascot, Mighty Red, are guaranteed this Christmas too. To mark your visit, you could choose a special souvenir like a Trent Alexander-Arnold shirt or club keyring.
3. The Santa Dash
It wouldn’t be Christmas without a Santa fun run. The Liverpool Santa Dash is due to take place on the 3 December, but it’s not too late to entre in person. You’ll need to head down to the pop-up shop in the St. Johns centre to secure your place. If you’d rather just spectate, don’t forget to don your Santa hat on the big day!
4. Live music
The home of the Beatles, Liverpool still boasts a lively and eclectic music scene to this day. A plethora of independent music venues host regular gigs through the month, offering a taste of almost every genre. From classical performances at the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic to indie gigs at 24 Kitchen Street in the vibrant Baltic Triangle district, there’s plenty to see.
5. Tate Liverpool / RIBA North
If you fancy a quiet afternoon of reflection during your trip to the city, you can achieve just that at the Tate Liverpool and RIBA North. It’s free to enter, and you’ll still be able to view pieces nominated for the Stirling Prize 2023. Another current exhibition focuses on the climate emergency and its relationship to architecture. Please note, as Tate Liverpool is currently closed for a huge transformation, Tate is currently open at RIBA North.
6. Calderstones Park
Don’t be fooled into thinking that Liverpool only offers city centre attractions. At Calderstones Park, you’ll find over 120 acres of luscious parkland to explore, plus a playground and botanical garden. This year you can also discover the immersive Christmas Story Trail at Calderstones Park, which is running on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays until the 23 December.
7. World-class shopping
Lastly, don’t forget that Liverpool is also a prime location in which to get your Christmas shopping done! The city brings you closer to world-class retail therapy whether you’re looking for specialist, artisan makers, luxury names, second-hand bargains, or high-street classics. Make sure you head to the MetQuarter shopping mall to find some of the most iconic brands.
Overview
Ready to head to Liverpool? Don’t forget to plan your journey in advance if you’re travelling on the train, since the stations can be exceptionally busy at this time of year. Liverpool is lively, friendly, and promises to deliver everything you need for an unforgettable weekend!
