We all know that Christmas can be the most wonderful, yet most expensive, time of year. With presents to buy, children to entertain, and good food to try, costs can add up quickly. To help you enjoy the season without breaking the bank, we’ve rounded up free and affordable Christmas activities and events across Liverpool and Merseyside.
Explore Christmas Markets
- The Makers Market is running throughout November and December at locations like the Bombed-Out Church and The Reader at Calderstones Park. Browse local artists, bakers, and businesses while enjoying live music and crafts.
- Liverpool’s Christmas Market is running from November 15th until December 24th. It’s open between 11am to 10pm, and you can soak up the festive atmosphere, music and lights for free.
- Sudley House Handmade Market is happening November 22nd at 10am, a festive-themed day full of artisan Christmas shopping in a Victorian setting.
Christmas Light Switch Ons
- Southport Christmas Spectacular. Enjoy an entertaining free family party on the 15th November, followed by the annual light switch-on at The Grand.
- Local light switch-ons are happening across Liverpool, including ones in Kirkby, Huyton and Gateacre.
Meet Father Christmas (and Mrs Claus!)
- Story Time with Father Christmas at the Palm House is December 7th, where your child can share free stories and crafts with Father Christmas and his helpers.
- Join Father Christmas at the Bluecoat for a family-friendly storytelling session over November and December, with prices starting from £7.50.
- Enjoy brunch with Mrs Claus and her elves at The Reader! Feast on some snow dusted pancakes and enjoy festive crafts, with prices starting from £10.
Concerts and Carol Services
- The Tung Auditorium are hosting free lunchtime concerts every Wednesday, along with affordable evening concerts throughout the week.
- Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral are hosting free events, from intimate Coffee and Carols to a sparkling Christmas Eve Carol Service, there’s something for everyone.
- Local churches are hosting festive events, such as Christingles and carol services. Contact your local church for more information!
Festive fun at Liverpool Museums
- A Sudley Victorian Christmas will feature heartwarming carols, children’s crafts and storytelling events at Sudley House, free for all to attend on the 6th and 7th December
- Little Liverpool Gallery at the Museum of Liverpool is hosting Christmas specials for under-6s throughout December for just £2.
Other magical activities
- Liverpool One Toy Parade is on Saturday 15th November, a free event that brings Liverpool’s streets alive with handmade toys. Parade times are 1pm, 3pm and 5pm. Other activities at Liverpool One include a Christmas Trail and Festive Fun Thursdays.
- Albert Dock’s famous Christmas Light Trail returns late November – bring a hot drink with you and enjoy the sparkling displays!
- The Reader at Calderstones Park have a range of affordable events for children of all ages. From Christmas at the Storybarn, to Bookshop Bedtime Stories and their outdoor cinema showing classic festive films, there’s something for every member of the family!
Make this Christmas magical, without breaking the bank
Liverpool is full of festive cheer, and you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy it. We hope you can make the most of these free and affordable events this holiday season!
Top Tip: Many of these events are free, but some require booking – check official websites for details.
