Liverpool is magical at any time of the year. No matter when you visit, you will find friendly people, lively bars, creativity and entertainment. Here are a few suggestions of things you can see and do if you visit Liverpool this festive season.

The Winter Arts Market is back in mini form

Liverpool Cathedral is the grand setting for the Winter Arts Market. On a smaller scale than in previous years. It features different independent artists and designers on each of the two days. Whether you are looking for gifts for your loved ones or a treat for yourself, you’ll be sure to find it here. Tickets are available in advance for 3rd and 4th December.

Liverpool Craft market

Here Comes Santa Claus

This year’s Santa Dash is bound to be a spectacle. There is always a fun atmosphere, whether you are participating in the 5km fun run or spectating. As you would expect, Santas in Liverpool come in both red and blue outfits! The race starts at 9.30 am on 5th December at The Pier Head.

Beatroute Tip: If you’re watching the start of The Santa Dash, head to The Vibe Cafe for brunch afterwards. You won’t be disappointed with this vegan cafe!

Live a Better Life this Christmas

Live A Better Life Christmas Vegan Fair Liverpool

L.A.B.L. Vegan Fair is taking place on Sunday 5th December at Mountford Hall. With 80 stalls offering everything from delicious vegan food and drink to natural beauty and handmade Christmas gifts!

Get Your Wings

During daylight hours get your picture taken with the Liverpool Wings. Paul Curtis’ artwork “For all the Liver Birds” is on Jamaica Street. Then in the evening have your photo taken at one or both of the Angel Wings Christmas lights. You’ll find these on Castle Street and Chevasse Park.

Is it really Christmas if there isn’t a Christmas Market?

Most towns and cities these days have a Christmas Market. Liverpool’s market is smaller than our Manchester neighbours. But if you are in the area, it is still worth a visit. Surrounding the beautiful St George’s Hall, opposite Liverpool Lime Street Station.

Christmas fun fair for the children

It showcases some lovely local gifts to buy, including photographic prints and jewellery. There are several bars, not to mention the Apres Ski Bar complete with karaoke in cable cars! To soak up the alcohol, why not treat yourself to a vegan bratwurst while enjoying the festive vibes! If you are bringing the children, they are sure to love the Snowslide or the Big Wheel in Santa’s Village.

Stalls at Liverpool Christmas Market
Alpine bar at Liverpool Christmas Market

Beatroute’s tip; Guac ‘n’ Roll is a short walk from the Christmas market, you’ll find plenty to eat at this Vegan Punk kitchen!

Pop up animation with Paperwork Theatre

Paperwork Theatre will be counting down to Christmas, with stories & songs to dancing & drag. You can find them across the city centre throughout December.

Beatroute’s top tip: If you’re looking to warm up after an evening of outside entertainment, visit Sanskruti. An award-winning vegetarian/vegan restaurant on Bixteth Street. Serving dishes inspired from all over the Indian sub-continent. Vegan items are clearly marked.

Albert Dock Light Trail

The Royal Albert Dock Liverpool is a stunning collection of Grade 1 listed buildings. At Christmas it takes on a lovely warm glow with all 86 of the pillars lit with thousands of twinkling lights. Neptune and Triton are standing guard at the entrance from Liverpool One. Also our beloved Liver Birds, Bertie and Bella, are portrayed in lights. You’ll find them outside The Anchor Courtyard and The Beatles Story respectively. It’s also a great opportunity to check out the independent shops for Christmas presents. Of course, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants to eat and drink in as well!

Christmas lights around Albert Dock
An illuminated giant Liver Bird

Ice Festival

The Pier Head is home to Liverpool’s Winter Wonderland. Complete with food stalls, bars selling mulled wine and a huge undercover ice rink. There is one ride at the moment with more due to open on 15th December for all your festive thrills! When I visited I didn’t see any vegan food, hopefully that will change!

Beatroute tip; Brasco Lounge and &company both have vegan options on their menus. They are a minutes walk from The Pier Head on Mann Island.

Ice Jet Ride and Polar Bear with Royal Liver Building in background
Mulled wine, festive stalls and Ice Rink

The Fab Four

Everybody has a favourite member of the Fab Four. No we are not talking about The Beatles, we’re talking Christmas trees!

The Traditional One on Church Street
The walk through one on Old Hall Street
Christmas tree made of lights with a crowd stood at the bottom
The walk through one with changing lights at Williamson Square
The one with a bar underneath it in Liverpool One

Vegan Walking Tours

Join us on a brunch or lunch tour to sample a variety of delicious vegan food from local independent cafes. You’ll also get to see some of the sites of Liverpool and learn a little bit about the city at the same time. We also have gift vouchers if you are looking for something different to give your loved ones.

Whatever you do this festive season we hope you have a wonderful time!