Halloween feels long gone, and with that, the Christmas countdown has well and truly begun! Get ready for shorter days, colder nights and, of course, trying out every new festive drink available in Leeds!
After practically having to give Christmas a miss last year, with no markets and virtually no events, our city has really pulled it out of the bag for Winter 2021. We’ve piled together everything (and I mean, EVERYTHING) going on in and around Leeds this Christmas.
From markets to mulled wine, and festive trails to Winter tipis – there’s something for everyone, whatever your budget. So, here’s your excuse to go to as many Christmas events as physically possible to make up for lost time. ;)
Millennium Square:
Although the German Christmas Market is not coming to Millenium Square this December, don’t worry! The square will still host a plethora of events this Christmas that you won’t want to miss out on. For starters, there will be a huge 4,300 square foot ice rink for you to test out your skating skills (and live out your Winter Wonderland dreams whilst imagining yourself on Dancing on Ice).
There will also be an inflatable igloo bar where you can buy festive drinks, as well as a selection of street food in the chalet-style huts – all this whilst sat on outdoor-covered tables listening to live music and entertainment! On top of this, the square will also host rides and attractions such as a giant helter-skelter, Christmas funhouse, a traditional carousel and, of course, the annual 110ft Leeds Wheel of Light.
Starting on Friday 26th November, this event is not to be missed. For more information, please visit https://www.millsqleeds.com/whats-on/
Chow Down at Temple Arches:
After the roaring success of this summer venue, Temple Arches has been well and truly transformed for Christmas as it turns into the ‘Winter Village’. Think Christmas tipis, fire pits and winter snugs to cater for all your festive needs.
Gather around the campfire with cosy blankets whilst listening to headline DJs and filling up on the delicious goods from street food traders – all washed down with a boozy hot choc of course!
There’s also a whole bunch of activities to take part in, whether you’re there with family or dragging your housemates along for the festivities. Visit the rooftop curling club and have your go at beer pong or get those essential Insta pics in the photo booths.
Tables are selling fast, so make sure to book yours as soon as possible! For more information and booking, please visit https://www.chowdownevents.co.uk/the-village
Briggate:
Perfect for us skint students, this year Briggate will host another Christmas tipi with hot drinks and refreshments, as well as a ‘bring your own food’ policy – so there’s no excuse to miss out on the Christmas fun, even if you’re just bringing a good old ‘Cup-a-Soup’!
Festive Woodland Walk Locations:
There are so many options for Festive Woodland Walks to get involved in this year, I thought it needed its own category! Temple Newsam, just a short bus journey away from the city centre, will be hosting an after-dark illuminated trail starting on 26th November. Walk through the tunnel of light whilst discovering the festive grounds, finishing off with a trip to the tipi!
You can also experience a magical walk at Harewood House, exploring the story of Lord Whitney’s ‘Once Upon a Christmas Wish’ along the way. And, from only £4 per person, you can also visit Lotherton’s Christmas Experience with timed entry to the estate, gardens and hall, as well as the Festive Woodland Walk and Fairy Dell.
There’s plenty to take part in just a short distance from Leeds, so why not reward yourself for finishing your 30-page reading by spending some well-deserved time delving into the Christmas spirit?
Temple Newsam: https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/events/temple-newsam/christmas-at-temple-newsam-2/?occurrence=2021-11-26
Harewood House: https://harewood.org/whats-on/event/christmas-at-harewood/
Lotherton: https://my.leedstickethub.co.uk/overview/15261
Trinity Leeds:
Finally, if you want a treat to round off your Christmas shopping, the top floor of Trinity is hosting a ski bar serving beer, mulled wine and prosecco. I enjoyed my first mulled wine of the year here last week and it certainly didn’t disappoint! Sit amongst the hut whilst taking in all the beautiful lights and decorations Trinity has to offer.
Remember to tag us on Instagram (@hercampusatleeds) if you go to any of the Leeds Christmas Events – we cannot wait to see all your pics!
Words by: Holly Harrison
Edited by: Emily Williams