Glasgow West End in December – What’s Happening?

Following a short spell of extremely chilly temperatures, it’s now positively balmy this month in Glasgow. What a treat! As we approach the festive holiday and run ourselves ragged in preparation, it’s important to take time to relax and enjoy some of the fun things Glasgow has to offer throughout December. There are many family-friendly events and activities taking place in the West End, so we’ve compiled a little list of our top picks for you to enjoy.

Kelvingrove Organ Recital

Built in 1901, the magnificent organ in the Centre Hall of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum was installed in its current location in 1902, having previously been housed in the Concert Hall of the 1901 Glasgow International Exhibition. Daily organ recitals can be enjoyed at 1pm Monday to Saturday and 3pm on Sundays. A great way to start or end a day at the museum whilst enjoying a cup of hot chocolate in the Centre Hall’s coffee shop.

On Sunday 18th December at 3pm, there’s a very special family event taking place – a Christmas carol sing-along with soprano Cheryl Forbes and Bearsden Choir, accompanied by the Kelvingrove organ.

It’s a Wonderful Life – The Grosvenor Cinema

The perfect way to lift the spirits and get yourself into the festive mood. It’s a Wonderful Life is a must-see for all the family – you’ll feel positively elated after watching this inspirational 1946 fantasy classic, starring Jimmy Steward and Donna Reed. Daily showings can be enjoyed at the Grosvenor Cinema on Ashton Lane until Christmas Eve.

Cottier’s Theatre events

Cottier’s Bar, Restaurant and Theatre is a West End institution loved by locals and those from further afield. A family-friendly establishment housed within a converted and lovingly restored 19th-century church, the theatre is host to a number of exciting productions over the Christmas period, including Snow White and the Seven Wee Muppets and A Christmas Carol. Performances of these two shows are also taking place at Cottier’s sister venue, Webster’s Theatre, which is located in Kelvinbridge.

Mansfield Park Farmers’ Market

With up to 35 local producers selling an extensive range of wholesale food items, the bi-weekly farmers’ market in Partick will appear for the last time in 2016 on Saturday 24th December, from 10am to 2pm — the perfect time to get some delicious, fresh treats for your Christmas Day food fest.

It’s a Wonderful Life Radio Play on Stage – Oran Mor

At 7pm on Wednesday 14th December, head along to Oran Mor to watch It’s a Wonderful Life performed on stage as a 1940s live radio broadcast, with live music and sound effects. This is a rare opportunity to experience the American family classic in a fresh and inventive way.

Joyous Choir – Oxfam Bookshop

Let your ears delight in the wonderful sounds of the Joyous Choir. Forming part of the Maryhill Integration Network, the community choir is made up of women from many different backgrounds from all over the world, each of whom has chosen to make Glasgow their home. The Joyous Choir will perform at 3:30pm on Saturday 17th December at Oxfam Bookshop on Byres Road.

Christmas Exhibition ‘Unwrapped’ – Thistle Gallery

Running until December 24th, the Thistle Gallery’s Christmas Exhibition provides an opportunity to browse an exceptional selection of affordable, unique gifts – from jewellery and textiles to artisan glassware and ceramics – created by some of Scotland’s leading contemporary artists. Pop along to this friendly neighbourhood gallery on Park Road on a Saturday afternoon and you can enjoy a minced pie and warming glass of mulled wine, too!

Winter walks in the Botanics

Why not make the most of the mild December weather with a leisurely walk in the Botanic Gardens, exploring the luscious perennial foliage on display throughout the Heritage Trail. Keep toasty warm with a coffee or hot chocolate from the drinks van situated at the entrance to the park, or pop in to the Tearoom after a wander through the Botanic Garden’s impressive Glasshouses.