By Catherine De Venny (she/her)

Coming from the Highlands, my childhood Christmases were very different to what they are now in Glasgow. That said, there’s so much to do that I love it here too.

As part of a relatively small Highland primary school, a trip to the panto was a full outing. We would walk down to the theatre, passing the iced-over canal with frost underfoot and a chill in the air. These memories solidify that a true Christmas is one that is cold and white.

My hope was that one year Snow White would be the panto story, but unfortunately the umpteenth performance of Jack and the Beanstalk took precedent. To my delight, this year I’ll be fulfilling my childhood dreams with a visit to the Kings Theatre for their production of Snow White! Panto is truly for all ages with most based on children’s stories, but still with plenty to enjoy for the adults. With Glasgow’s choice of theatre there are many pantos on the go. Treated for choice, I’m yet to decide on whether to venture to Oran Mor’s production of Snow White and the Seven Maws.

Christmas to me is always marked by the festive lights and decorations. Nothing beats walking Glasgow’s streets on the dark winter nights. Donned in glowing light strands, House of Frasers becomes a sparkly beacon lighting up Buchanan Street. From the outside, Princes Square has a regal glow drawing you indoors to the centrepiece tree. George Square and surrounding buildings receive a glow up too. Alleyways and side streets are given string light roofs across the city, with notable mentions of Royal Exchange Square and Ashton Lane. Rain is no hindrance to enjoying the nights; it reveals an extra beauty with lights glistening off the slab and cobbled pavements. Furthermore, Glasgow’s bars and eateries get in the festive spirit and offer a warm and inviting escape from the colder temperatures. One of many enticing options is a West End venture down to Brel where you can enjoy some s’mores around a fire pit.

Visiting Glasgow as a small child I remember George Square hosting an ice rink and it became a bucket list dream to one year skate on it. Whilst at Strathclyde I’ve been able to tick it off twice and I’m hopeful for a treble. Proposals have been released for a rink to return to George Square along with a Christmas market. Furthermore, it is looking likely that Elfingrove will be back in the West End. A winter skate is a fun activity to do with family or friends that brings some festive joy – but maybe make it a post-exam activity just in case of any stumbles! Very doubtful the excuse ‘I decked it on the ice rink’ will get an exam exception.

If going out isn’t for you, fear not as Christmas is all around and simple touches can add festive joy to your space. Festive movies are a perfect study break and are available on all streaming services. Hot drinks, warm blankets and a twinkling tree are comforts everyone needs. While at uni, it has become my tradition to have a real tree. Getting one from a local tree farm offering free delivery to my accommodation on the 14th floor is both supportive of small businesses and effective student deal finding. There’s so much to enjoy at Christmas, whether it’s in the rural Highlands or the hustle and bustle of Glasgow. It’s amazing to see the city come alive with the festive spirit – Glasgow really loves Christmas… oh yes it does!