It’s the most wonderful time of the year (nearly)! Preparations are already underway, the lights are going up, trees are being decorated and 6 weeks of festive fun have been finalised…
As always, our world-famous waterfront has a full roster of Christmas fun taking place amongst the iconic Three Graces and historic Albert Dock, against the incomparable backdrop of the sparkling lights across the River Mersey.
This Christmas as always there is truly something for everyone to help you get into the Christmas spirit, from cosy outdoor (floating!) cinemas and heart-warming light projection shows to traditional Christmas Markets and festive lunches with Santa.
Check out our guide to ‘What’s On’ on the Waterfront as we lead up to Christmas…
Christmas Ice Festival | 13th November- 5th December
Pier Head
Christmas isn’t truly on it’s way until the Ice Village has lit up the Pier Head. Once again fairground rides, traditional market stalls and pop up bars will appear along the Waterfront, reflecting their bright festive lights off the Three Graces and the Mersey beyond.
Not to be outshone by the traditional Christmas Markets, the Pier Head Ice Festival appeals to foodies, shoppers and thrill seekers alike with it’s range of activities. The UKs largest ice slide with 3 super fast 30m runs winds 6m above the village, offering the best views of the waterfront. The covered ice rink offers a fun activity whatever the weather, and the Ice Jet Ride promises a stunning sound and light show.
Our Verdict: Ideal for families, couples and friends to wrap up and head down for some proper winter fun- enjoy the rides and activities, browse the stalls and finish up with a mulled wine! There’s something for everyone to enjoy.
https://icefestivalliverpool.co.uk
The Wonder of Christmas | Friday 15th November Onwards
Albert Dock
This winter the Albert Dock have promised to light up in honour of the festive season, like never seen before.
A brand-new Christmas lighting scheme is set to include over 1 million lights around the dock, illuminating a treasure trail of history and mythology with magical characters such as Bella and Bertie depicted in lights.
An additional light show will be projected on the Maritime Museum, ‘Love Returns’ combines romance, laritime and local history with the romantic theme of love returning in a heart-warming film.
Our Verdict: Definitely worth checking out, especially if you have chance to enjoy one of the fabulous dockside bars or restaurants whilst you’re there.
https://albertdock.com/whats-on/the-wonder-of-christmas
Christmas Floating Cinema | Saturday 30th November – Saturday 8th December
Royal Albert Dock
The floating cinema returns after selling out it’s original run in Summer, and more recently a halloween reprise. In collaboration with Independent Liverpool, the cinema is returning for a special Christmas run, showing festive favourites such as Love Actually and Elf with their signature deck chairs and branded Albert Dock blankets to keep cinema-goers warm.
A pop food and drink bar will be available, each night manned by a different Albert Dock eatery.
Our Verdict: There’s a reason this event is always a sell out! We can’t imagine anything ‘toastier’ than snuggling up with our blanket and mulled wine to watch a Christmas movie against a light covered backdrop of a beautifully decorated Albert Dock.
https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Liverpool/Albert-Dock%2C-Liverpool/
Elf- A Christmas Spectacular | Saturday 7th- Sunday 8th December
M&S Bank Arena
ELF- A Christmas Spectacular is a musical extravaganza based on the hit movie starring Will Ferrell. It’s the heart-warming story of how Buddy the Elf, a human raised by Santa’s Elves in the North Pole, travels to New York to find his real Father and in the process restores ‘Christmas Spirit’ to the people.
Starring award-winning Coronation Street actress and singer Kym Marsh as Buddy the Elf’s girlfriend, Jovie, and hilarious comedy actor Tam Ryan as Buddy the Elf.
This unique production takes places across three stages to ensure the entire audience is involved with the action, with a flying sleigh, stunts from the 100 strong cast and even a giant 30 foot-tall Christmas tree that the audience can decorate.
Our Verdict: Sure to be the perfect Christmas treat for the family. Not your average musical, this show incorpates audience participation, CGI effects, stunts and 3 stages to live up to it’s name of a true ‘Christmas Spectacular’.
https://www.mandsbankarena.com/whats-on/elf-a-christmas-spectacular/
Christmas Gala Dinner at the Royal Liver Building | Friday 13th December
Pier Head
Enjoy the party of a lifetime in our exclusive event space on the first floor of Liverpool’s most iconic building. Unrivalled views of the glittering lights across the Mersey lend to the magic of a true Christmas celebration, providing you and your guests with an unforgettable experience.
Join us for a sparkling drinks reception, sumptuous 3 course meal and after dinner entertainment from our resident DJ with accompanying live saxophonist to keep you on the dancefloor you until the early hours.
Dine, drink and dance all under one roof. With panoramic views, excellent service and sumptuous catering The Venue is the perfect host for your unforgettable Christmas Party. Dance the night away before the glittering lights of Liverpool this winter and treat yourself to a Christmas celebration like no other.
Our Verdict: (We may be biased!) This event has been designed for everyone from couples and friends to corporate teams looking for a world-class Christmas night out in a memorable venue. Get your tickets for the party of the year!
https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Liverpool/The-Venue-At-The-Royal-Liver-Building/Christmas-Gala-Dinner–Shared-Party-Night/13661794/
Sunday Lunch with Santa | Sunday 15th December
Pier Head
If you’re looking for something a little more traditional this festive event in the heart of Liverpool could be the perfect family afternoon to get you ready for Christmas.
Here at The Royal Liver Building, The Venue we are hoisting up our 10 foot Christmas tree and decking our halls ready to host the “Man in Red” for an afternoon of fine dining and family festive fun.
Elf on the shelf will be fooling around with plenty of party games whilst our DJ plays your favourite Christmas songs. Visit the Glitter Bar for some sparkling festive face-art before joining us in the arts and craft corner to make some beautiful homemade cards.
Enjoy a traditional Sunday carvery with all the trimmings (and bar service for the grown-ups!) whilst the snow queen serenades you on her magic har, as you await Santa Claus to make his appearance with his sack full of gifts for all the good boys and girls.
Our Verdict: This is the perfect treat for the whole family, especially those who need an extra push to get them into the Christmas Spirit. What more would you want on a Sunday leading up to Christmas? Santa is coming to town!
https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Liverpool/The-Venue-At-The-Royal-Liver-Building/Sunday-Lunch-with-Santa-at-the-Royal-Liver-Building/13661852/
Snow White | Friday 13th -Tuesday 24th December
M&S Bank Arena
Nothing says Christmas like a traditional pantomime! This Christmas the M&S Bank Arena are showing one of our favourite childhood fairtytales, Snow White. Watch in awe as Snow White and her friends attempt to defeat the Wicked Queen, boo, cheer and don’t forget to warn them… ‘shes behind you!’. This show promises all the laughter, music, special effects and sparkle you should expect from a proper Christmas panto. Our Verdict: For families pantomimes are a non-negotiable at Christmas, and this one is definitley our top pick! We recommend taking a stroll down the waterfront beforehand, grab a bite at the Ice Festival and watch the show at the Albert Dock on your way for a truly festive treat.https://www.mandsbankarena.com/whats-on/snow-white/
Liverpool International Horse Show | Saturday 28th– Tuesday 31stDecember
M&S Bank Arena
The TheraPlate UK Liverpool International Horse Show is coming back to the M&S Bank Arena this December.
Liverpool’s iconic equestrian event offers a whole new experience in family entertainment, with spectacular stunts, show jumping, the Shetland Grand National and live music amongst the acts listed on the show schedule. The spectators village is open all day offering shopping, restaurants and drink outlets.
Our Verdict: Perfect to combat the post christmas blues (does anybody know what to do between Christmas and New Year!?), access to the village with you shows tickets provides excellent value if you make a full day out of it, and the acts are sure to be enjoyed by all the family. It was also make a lovely treat for friends or couples, especially if you upgrade to the VIP package and keep the champagne flowing!
https://www.liverpoolhorseshow.com/
For tickets or event enquiries at The Venue contact our dedicated team on 0151 559 1950 | events@royalliverbuildingvenue.co.uk