Festive days out to make the most of the season

From wreath-making workshops through to New Year’s Eve street parties, here's a rounded up some of the best events to help make the most of the season with loved ones in a fun and creative way.

Article Source: TASTE
Last Updated: 7 November 2025 11:18

The festive season brings more than twinkling lights and Christmas markets. It’s a chance to gather, celebrate and make memories. Whether you’re planning a day out with the little ones, a creative morning with friends or a lively night of music and dancing, there’s something for every taste and pace in this round up of experiences that promise to make the season feel special.

Dance the night away at Radisson Blu Glasgow’s festive parties
On the 19th and 20th December, the ballroom at Radisson Blu Glasgow fills with live music from Unison Anthems and Carbon Copy, a DJ spinning throughout the evening and a three-course seasonal feast. Guests are greeted with a glass of fizz, and tables enjoy a complimentary wine and beer package for these dates only, keeping the celebrations flowing.

Earlier on 19th December, the suite hosts a festive lunch. Friends or colleagues can gather over a three-course meal, fizz in hand, while the resident DJ keeps the atmosphere lively. Tables for lunch also receive the same complimentary drinks package, so the midday gathering sparkles just as much as the evening.
Book by email: events.glasgow@radissonblu.com
View more: HERE

Deck the halls with wreath making at Hamilton Park
On 29th November, Hamilton Park offers a hands-on start to the festive season with a wreath making session led by award-winning florist Eoin Irving-Knowles. Guests can tuck into mince pies and a festive drink before crafting their own seasonal wreaths, using foliage designed to last for months and adding delicate adornments along the way. It’s a relaxed, creative morning to share with friends, family, or colleagues, and a way to take a little of the season home.
View more: HERE

Bring the little ones to meet Santa at Hampden Park
Hampden Park is serving up a Christmas experience with a twist this year. Families can enjoy Breakfast with Santa at Scotland’s national stadium, where little ones can meet Santa himself and take home a special gift. Between face painting, a festive disco and a surprise appearance from Roary the Lion - Scotland’s beloved mascot - there’s plenty to keep the energy high. Parents can relax with a filled breakfast roll before the whole family heads off for an exclusive behind-the-scenes stadium tour.
View more: HERE

Festive sing along at Hard Rock Cafe, Edinburgh
Kick off the season with the little ones at Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh. On the big screen, enjoy the heartwarming holiday classic The Muppet Christmas Carol while tucking into a full breakfast. Festive dress-up is encouraged: Christmas jumpers, Santa hats, and sparkles are all welcome, making it a fun, seasonal start to the day.
View more: HERE

Browse festive market stalls at Knipoch House Hotel, Oban
Knipoch House Hotel opens its door for its Christmas markets this festive season, welcoming visitors with local stalls, seasonal treats, live music and Santa themed activities for kids. The first weekend coincides with the Oban Christmas lights switch-on on 22nd November, making it the perfect time to soak up the town’s festive energy. Beyond the markets, the hotel invites guests to linger with its three-course festive menu, running from 15th November to 23rd December. Expect seasonal favourites from smoked salmon pate to roast turkey with all the trimmings.
View more: HERE

Ring in the bells at Duisdale House Hotel, Isle of Skye
Duisdale House Hotel welcomes guests to celebrate Hogmanay with a full evening of Scottish tradition and festivities. The night begins with Champagne on arrival, followed by a piper leading guests into a seven-course dinner. Evening entertainment continues with live music and a lively ceilidh, culminating in fireworks at The Bells. The celebrations carry on until 1am, with bedtime bacon rolls providing a final festive touch. Non-residents are welcome to join, making it a memorable way to see in the New Year on the Isle of Skye.
View more: HERE

An enchanting Hogmanay Escape at the Old Course Hotel, St Andrews
Ring in Hogmanay at the Old Course Hotel in St Andrews with the Hogmanay Escape and Enchanting NYE package. The two-night stay begins with a Champagne welcome and dinner in the Road Hole Restaurant or Conservatory. As midnight approaches, guests gather in the Swilcan Loft for the Hogmanay party, complete with a disco, bagpiper, and front-row views of the fireworks over St Andrews.

New Year’s Day starts with a full Scottish breakfast, with time to relax or visit the Kohler Waters Spa, before dinner in the Road Hole Restaurant. A simpler two-night stay is also available for those who prefer to enjoy the celebrations without the dinner or party.
View more: HERE

Champagne Picnic Brunch Series in the Old Course Hotel’s Winter Garden, St Andrews
The Old Course Hotel is bringing a touch of sparkle to the salon with its Winter Garden Champagne Brunches, relaxed and feel-good afternoons filled with festive cheer. Set against the backdrop of the Winter Garden in the Conservatory, guests can enjoy a winter-inspired picnic spread paired with three glasses of Veuve Clicquot Champagne or French Bloom, a refined alcohol-free alternative. With live DJ sets and a cosy atmosphere, the brunches on 23rd November and 7th December promise the perfect blend of music, bubbles and seasonal warmth.
View more: HERE

Thistles' Santa’s Grotto, Stirling
Thistles Stirling is bringing back its sell-out Santa’s Grotto to help raise vital funds for local charity Strathcarron Hospice. Event goers will have the chance to meet Santa, make reindeer food, receive a gift and see Santa’s elves, whilst also exploring what Thistles has to offer this festive season.

Returning to the centre on the 29th of November until Christmas Eve, all proceeds from the Grotto ticket sales will go directly to Thistles' long-standing charity partner, Strathcarron Hospice.
View more: HERE

Got a story to share? Send us an email at hello[@]whatsonnetwork.co.uk

Latest Renfrewshire News

Celebrate love with your PAWfect Valentine at Dobbies Garden Centres

Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting pet parents to celebrate Valentine's Day with their beloved furry friends in selected stores across the country!

Primary schools in Scotland given chance to win specifically curated Burns Supper from Aldi

Aldi Scotland is giving primary school pupils across Scotland the chance to enjoy a truly traditional Burns Supper, complete with all the trimmings, including a bagpiper.

Glasgow International Comedy Festival launches 2026 programme with over 100,000 tickets on sale

Glasgow International Comedy Festival has announced the full programme for 2026's event with 560 shows in 40 venues across the city from 11th - 29th March, and over 100,000 tickets now on sale!

Celebrate Burns Night 2026 at Flight Club

If you're looking for a fun way to celebrate Burns Night this year, head to Flight Club!

Calling all Gingers!

The IRN-BRU Carnival is showing appreciation to any fellow fiery headed pals by offering a bonus ride voucher to anyone visiting with ginger hair on Sunday 11th January!

Everything you need to know about Celtic Connections 2026

The renowned festival which every year transforms Glasgow in January into a must-visit destination for music lovers is now just over a week away.

Zizzi launches their January Birthday Jackpot

Zizzi's January Birthday Jackpot guarantees a special gift for adults born in January, with some lucky birthday guests receiving the jackpot prize - £100 towards their bill!

Litter picking dog charity aims to remove 44 million pieces of rubbish in 2026

Dog owners making an environmental New Year Resolution are hoped to boost the ranks of the Paws On Plastic charity to over 30,000 in 2026!

Brand new craft event encourages mindfulness, creativity and relaxation

Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting customers along to an afternoon of creativity, connection, and cake this January, with a brand-new Crafternoon Tea Club.

Famous faces share their DofE Award memories in celebration of their 70th anniversary

Anyone with a connection to The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is being invited to celebrate the charity's 70th anniversary by sharing their fondest DofE memories.

Dry or Try January: Flight Club is your go to January social spot

Whether you're ditching the booze and going dry for a month or embracing Try January with the goal of experiencing new things, Flight Club, ticks all the boxes!

Stellar year of successful events in Renfrewshire

It's been another successful year of events in Renfrewshire which attracted more than 120,000 attendees and generated more than £4.4million for the local economy.

First music, fitness and wellness festival in Scotland unveils all star programme for 2026 debut

Paisley Alive, Scotland's first festival to unite music, fitness and wellness, has confirmed the full programme for its inaugural event in Barshaw Park on 4 July 2026.

Christmas has arrived in Glasgow, The IRN BRU Carnival returns for its 106th year

Europe's largest indoor fun fair, The IRN-BRU Carnival, has opened to the public at Glasgow's SEC with its greatest show to date!

The River Inn launches dream wedding reception giveaway worth thousands

One lucky couple to win a luxury wedding reception for up to 100 guests... completely free!

Braehead Shopping Centre is your place for festive fashion, food and fun this Christmas

Christmas is in full swing at Braehead Shopping Centre, and Scotland's leading retail and leisure destination is once again the place to celebrate the magic of the festive season!

Lights on in Linwood

Crowds turned out in Linwood to see the town's Christmas lights switched on for 2025.

Renfrewshire and Ayrshire and Arran Lieutenancies host Together at Christmas Community Carol Service

This year, Renfrewshire along with Inverclyde, East Renfrewshire and Ayrshire will join communities across the UK in hosting a 'Together at Christmas' Community Carol Service in Paisley Abbey.

DF Concerts & Events launches The DF Academy

DF Concerts launches the DF Academy to strengthen pathways between education and Scotland's live music & events industry.

Win your way to the IRN BRU Carnival

The Duck Hunt is back bigger and better with over 150 ducks hidden across Glasgow and beyond!

Work to start on six play parks across Renfrewshire

Investment in Renfrewshire's play parks continues with work set to begin on a further six play parks.

Unique approach of Pam Hogg will inspire the next generation of young people in Paisley

The unique legacy of globally-renowned Paisley designer and artist Dr Pam Hogg will inspire the next generation of creative talent, her proud home community says.

DF Concerts & Events celebrates a year of sustainable and inclusive events

DF Concerts & Events is celebrating the success of their sustainability initiatives delivered across their major summer events in 2025.

Step into Christmas at Dalmeny Park with special festive menus and afternoon teas this December

Dalmeny Park is pulling out all the stops to make this festive season truly magical, unveiling its 2025 festive dining menus and afternoon teas available until 23rd December.

Winter Connections programme returns to support communities across Renfrewshire

A brand-new programme of free fun activities and events returns with Renfrewshire’s praised Winter Connections.

Scottish jazz talent in tune as award winners unveiled

The Scottish Jazz Awards 2025 celebrated the cream of the crop in the jazz scene on Sunday night, honouring outstanding artists and contributors at a memorable ceremony in Glasgow.

Anna Campbell Jones launches small batch Scottish botanical rum distilled in Glasgow

Interior designer, BBC Scotland's Home of the Year judge and entrepreneur Anna Campbell-Jones has released her first spirit.

New civic plaza and events space to be created in Erskine

A new civic plaza, garden and events space will be created in Erskine to provide a focal point for the local community.

Braehead Shopping Centre announces partnership to support local community

The partnership is calling on the local community to donate new children's pyjamas, ensuring every child in Renfrewshire has something cosy to unwrap this Christmas.

Erskine lights up for Christmas

Erskine's Christmas lights have been switched on for 2025 with locals turning out to enjoy the occasion!

Popular Listings

Beacon Arts Centre Braehead Arena Johnstone Town Hall Old Swan Inn Paisley Paisley Abbey Paisley Arts Centre Paisley Town Hall Robertson Park Renfrew The Bungalow Paisley Venue Paisley

Festive days out to make the most of the season

From wreath-making workshops through to New Year’s Eve street parties, here's a rounded up some of the best events to help make the most of the season with loved ones in a fun and creative way.

Sponsored Links

Latest Renfrewshire News

Sponsored Links

Sponsored Links

Popular Events

Popular Listings