Things to do in your city this Christmas

Christmas time is all about coming together, embracing traditions, creating new ones and capturing the Christmas cheer. Getting cosy is great, but when you want to throw yourself into the fun of Christmas, there's nothing better than venturing out into your city to discover something new. Not sure where to start? Here are our three top things to do in five iQ cities.  

Christmas in Birmingham 

From festive markets to light displays, Birmingham provides a perfect backdrop for creating lasting holiday memories. 

Visit the Frankfurt Christmas Market 

Jump in to one of the largest authentic German Christmas markets outside of Germany. The Frankfurt Christmas Market in Birmingham has countless charming stalls offering everything from handmade jewellery and gifts to delicious festive treats – including fresh pretzels, bratwurst and mulled wine. The market will run until 24 December at 8pm. 

Go ice skating at Ice Rink Birmingham 

Strap on some skates and hit the ice at Ice Rink Birmingham in Centenary Square. You’ll be surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the Birmingham Big Wheel and festive lights, so it's a perfect way to enjoy the season with either a loved one or with your mates. 

Check out the lights at the Botanical Gardens 

Head to the Botanical Gardens for the Luminate Winter Lights Trail. Walk around and feel warm in the glow of their stunning light installations that bring some magic to the festive season. Running until the 2nd January 2024, expect to walk around for around 60-90 minutes – so wrap up warm! 

Christmas in Glasgow 

Glasgow always has a vibrant culture and welcoming spirit, but even more so in the festive season. You might be lucky enough to have a white Christmas up north, giving you the perfect backdrop for these activities.  

Dance at a Ceilidh 

Try something different and immerse yourself in Scottish culture by attending a Christmas Ceilidh night. Dance the night away with traditional Scottish music and experience the warmth of the community as everyone comes together for a lively night of quick pace dancing. 

Take a winter walk in Kelvingrove Park 

Embrace the crisp winter air with a stroll through Kelvingrove Park. Grab yourself a hot chocolate and your best mate or loved one and take in the picturesque surroundings and seasonal foliage for the ideal winter walk. 

Head to a pub for a festive quiz 

There’s no shortage of pubs in Glasgow, so why not try finding a festive pub quiz to test your Christmas knowledge? If you win, you could bag yourself an early gift. If you lose, you’ll still have a great time. You’ll feel Christmassy in the traditional pub surroundings – especially if you can sit by an open fire with snow falling in the background.  

Christmas in London 

Christmas in the capital gives you no shortage of things to do. With its already iconic landmarks lit up, you’ve got the perfect backdrop to a lively atmosphere that’s full of things to do. 

Step into Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park 

Every year, Hyde Park becomes a festive haven as it transforms into Winter Wonderland. Talk a walk through and explore the treasures of the Christmas market, take a spin on the ice rink, experience thrilling rides or enjoy live entertainment. Whatever you need to feel Christmassy, you’ll find it here. 

Go ice skating at Somerset House 

Glide gracefully on the ice rink at Skate at Somerset House. Surrounded by the stunning neoclassical architecture and adorned with twinkling lights, it's a quintessential London Christmas activity for those that want a timeless experience. Plus, it’s just moments away from the Strand, Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square, where you’ll find even more of a festive feel. 

Check out the Christmas Lights on Oxford Street 

We couldn’t not include checking at the world-renowned Christmas lights on Oxford Street. The street comes alive with its Christmas displays, turning a shopping expedition into a magical stroll. Shop if you can get past the crowds, and check out nearby Carnaby Street for its lights and Liberty for its great Christmas decorations. 

Christmas in Manchester 

Manchester is buzzing during the Christmas period, with its lights, street performers and festive activities creating a long list of things to explore.  

Discover the Lanterns at Chester Zoo 

Take a short trip to Chester Zoo to check out their Lanterns and Light show, a magical display of illuminated animal sculptures that create a warm glow as you walk through the zoo. Make sure you book, with tickets available until 31st December.  

Check out the Christmas Light Trail at Dunham Massey 

For more Christmas walks and lights, head to Dunham Massey for a must-see collection of twinkling lights and giant glowing deer welcoming you to the already iconic atmosphere of the house and park. Again, you’ll need ticket which are available until 31st December. 

Get cosy at a candlelight concert 

Experience something a little more relaxed with a candlelight concert of your favourite Christmas film songs. A string quartet will be surrounded by hundreds of candles while you watch, hot chocolate in hand. With venues including Manchester Cathedral and the Concorde Conference Centre, there’s plenty of opportunity to catch a show.  

Christmas in Nottingham 

A city rich in history and culture, Nottingham becomes even more enchanting during the Christmas season, with plenty to get you in the festive mood. 

Be jolly at Nottingham’s Winter Wonderland 

Running until 31st December, find everything you need to feel Christmassy at Nottingham's Winter Wonderland. Located in Old Market Square, this annual event give you plenty to do with its Christmas market, ice rink, big wheel, toboggan slide and live entertainment. 

Discover Christmas at Wollaton Hall 

From festive food to bright lights, feel fancy with an evening at Wollaton Hall. You can book tickets until 31st December. They’ve got a new design team, bringing you something different from last year, with surprises around every corner.  

Explore the Nottingham Caves 

Take a unique journey underground by exploring the Nottingham Caves this Christmas. During the holiday season, some caves host special events or themed tours giving you a unique experience that still keeps you in the Christmas mood.