Glasgow is a fantastic city to visit during the festive season thanks to the array of shows, markets, carnivals and activities that take place. With fun for the whole family on offer, it’s time to start marking diaries and building excitement around some of the many treats on offer this year.

Here, we’ve rounded up five ways to make the most of all the festive fun in Glasgow.

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Glasgow Santa Dash

Embrace the spirit of the season by taking part in a race with a difference. The Santa Dash will once again unleash thousands of runners on the streets of Glasgow, dressed up as the man in red as they run 5k for charity. Raising money for Beatson Cancer Charity, last year’s event saw around 8,000 people take part to raise more than £250,000.

The Herald:

After signing up, participants will be able to collect Santa suits from the St Enoch Centre prior to the race, before taking part in this fun visual spectacle.

The Santa Dash takes place on Sunday, 9 December at 9.30am for a 10am start in George Square. Registration can be completed here.

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Christmas markets

Take in the delicious sights, sounds and smells at one of Glasgow’s much-loved Christmas markets. The George Square and St Enoch Square markets will return once again, offering a wide selection of delicious food and drink or a unique gift at one of the many stalls.

Christmas revellers can enjoy a warming glass of mulled wine, feast on a bratwurst sausage or hog roast and tuck into sweets and confectionary.

The Herald:

The St Enoch Square market runs from Friday, 9 November to Sunday, 23 December, where over 50 seasonal chalets will set up shop.

The George Square Christmas Market runs from Sunday, 25 November to Monday, 31 December. Here over 50 traders from around the world will be present along with a 15-metre tree.

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Aladdin

It’s panto season once again – oh yes, it is! – and that means marking diaries with the best upcoming family shows. Aladdin at the Kings Theatre promises laugh-out-loud comedy, beautiful sets and costumes, and plenty of opportunity to boo and hiss until your heart’s content.

The Herald:

Starring Elaine C Smith, the story follows Aladdin, his brother Wishee Washee and his mother Widow Twankey on a magical adventure. Look out for flying carpets, a wish-granting genie, an evil sorcerer and plenty of laughs.

Aladdin runs from Saturday, 1 December to Sunday, 6 January at the Kings Theatre.

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The Bodyguard

Former X-Factor winner and three-time Brit nominee Alexandra Burke takes on the leading role in this hit musical based on the blockbuster film. A former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rach Marron from an unknown stalker. Though each headstrong individual expects to be in charge, what they don’t expect is to fall in love.

The Herald:

Audiences can expect classic hits such as I Have Nothing, Million Dollar Bill and One Moment in Time in this incredible romantic thriller that’s had hit reviews.

The Bodyguard runs from Monday, 2 to Saturday, 29 December at the Theatre Royal Glasgow.

For more information and to book tickets, visit www.thebodyguardmusical.com/uk-tour/

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The Blessing of the Crib

Gather in George Square on Wednesday, 5 December for the traditional Blessing of the Crib. Beneath the Christmas lights and with a chorus of singers, the Lord Provost of Glasgow will host the event. 

The Blessing of the Crib is free and everyone is welcome to attend. It will take place at 6.30pm.

The Herald: