…and so do I!
Last Sunday, I attended Glasgow’s Christmas Lights. It was part of Glasgow Loves Christmas, which consists of over five weeks of fun and festive events in the city. Without Thanksgiving, Christmas festivities begin the day after Halloween. Although I miss eating turkey, watching football games and taking a break from school, I love the outpouring holiday spirit around Glasgow. I’m definitely thankful for the opportunity to study here!
Glasgow’s Christmas Lights was a free event, but tickets had to be ordered beforehand. Luckily, my friend Sarah got several for the group, because apparently it sold out in a matter of hours. We hopped on the subway and arrived in the city center around 2:30 p.m. The gates didn’t open until 4:30, but we got there early to avoid the crowds. Right outside of the metro station was a lovely holiday-themed flea market with tons of food, clothes and miscellaneous gifts. My most notable finds? Meats of the world (including kangaroo, ostrich and wild boar), reindeer hides from Finland, delicious Dutch pancakes and “Death by Baileys” chocolate truffles.
Dutch pancakes—yum!
After browsing the market, we headed over to wait by the gates at George Square. While waiting in line, my friend Carley and I sang classic Christmas carols to spread some holiday cheer (we’re both in choir)! Finally, we were allowed to move to the square after being separated into several queues that resembled waiting in line at an amusement park. There was a huge Christmas tree in front of the Glasgow City Chambers building, and lights were hung around the square. A ferris wheel loomed over the main stage. We watched several performances before the official lighting. There were childrens’ characters, a rock choir and a karaoke contest. At 6:30 sharp, the entire square was lit up! Christmas music played as we watched a brilliant fireworks show over City Chambers. It was a memorable experience, and I can’t wait to attend more Glasgow Loves Christmas festivities.