Tier 2 ain’t stopping us getting into the festive spirit!
Feeling like a bit of a Grinch this Christmas? While landing ourselves in Tier 2 has its downsides, it doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate the most wonderful time of the year – with a number of events still taking place that are sure to get our spirits up. From classic movies to watch to seriously festive food and drink events, here’s our guide to some of the most Christmassy things to do while living under tier two rules.
1. Get into the Christmas spirit at a Christmas Drive-In Cinema
The Parking Lot Social has officially returned to Liverpool in time for Christmas – and we are so ready to get into the festive spirit. The drive-in cinema at John Lennon Airport has a number of festive classics lined up for us to enjoy from the safety of our own cars. Watch faves such as Love Actually and Miracle on 34th Street, or opt for family-friendly movies such as Elf and Home Alone. Tickets are on sale now and selling fast. Plus, it’s panto season meaning you can also watch a live pantomime show from your car too!
2. Get some Christmas shopping done
Now non-essential stores have re-opened, we can finally get on with our Christmas shopping (without leaving it til December 24th and ending up with ten boxes of Lynx for all the men in the family)…
3. Sip festive cocktails and enjoy an online drag show
Enjoy a drag show hosted by the awe-inspiring Jodie Harsh featuring performances from the Pleasure Gardens Drag Queens, with cocktail demonstrations to get everyone ready for the big show. The entire event will take place online and you’ll be sent your Absolut Vodka cocktail kit in advance and filled with boozy surprises to make an Absolut Spiced PassionStar Martini and Absolut Chocolate Orange Espresso Martini. So, if you want to sashay your way to your sofa and watch an amazing drag performance while you sip on a delicious cocktail or two, then book your place now for the Absolut Pleasure Gardens Drag Experience .
4. Have a laugh at a Christmas Comedy Drive-In
5. Try one of Liverpool’s best hot chocolates
6. Pick up some halloumi in blankets at Baltic Market and head out on a winter stroll
Missing the Christmas Markets? Hafla Hafla – the Baltic Market’s famous Middle Eastern stall – actually has their own restaurant on Lark Lane, where you can indulge in their gorgeous food which offers a twist on British classics like these blankets. Not only that, but they’ve introduced their own roast dinners especially for the festive season, which you can pre-order to enjoy at home.
7. Take part in a gin cocktail and Christmas cracker-making workshop
If you fancy staying inside while we remain in tier two, there’s a number of great home activities to try that’ll keep you occupied in the comfort of your own home. And Monkey 47 has provided the perfect Christmas activity for anyone looking to get into the festive mood in the run-up to the Big Man squeezing down the chimney. Hosting two sessions this month, guests can enjoy gin cocktails, while also learning how to create your very own Christmas crackers from scratch. All ingredients, gin and crafts are supplied as part of the workshop, with tickets available to book here.
8. Learn how to make Portuguese Christmas sweets
Been working on your cooking craft? Widen your net with a little bit of culture, and learn how to make some classic Portuguese Christmas treats in your very own kitchen. The two-hour live online experience will guide you through each of the steps – with all the expert guidance from Pastelaria Batalha on how to create perfect Rabanadas, Sonhos and Coscorões/Filhós. Book your place here.
9. Hear your favourite Christmas hits by candlelight
As we inch closer to Bublé season, the arrival of a second lockdown is putting a wee bit of a dampener on the Christmas spirit. Happily though, our friends at Fever are jingling to the rescue, with a Christmas candlelight concert stuffed – turkey-like – full of hit Christmas songs. Hopefully Mariah & co will help you forget about 2020 for a bit! Taking place at Grand Central Hall, it’s a joyful romp through the world of festive pop, backed by a live orchestra, and if that sounds like a seasonal treat you need to experience, you can find your tickets here.
10. Make your own mulled wine
Another great alternative to the Christmas Markets, mulled wine is an incredibly tasty festive treat – and it’s super easy to make, too. All you need is a pan and a hob, and the ingredients which can be picked up from any local supermarket. Most recipes just require you to warm up red wine, oranges, cinnamon, cloves, star anise and a touch of sugar or honey to taste – and it’s as easy as popping it all in a saucepan together and simmering on low (with a pan cover) for just 15 minutes.
11. Discover Liverpool’s Christmas light trail
12. Become a cocktail pro and enjoy live music with Martell
Make yourself a cocktail pro ahead of the festive season and show off your skills to your Christmas bubble with Martell’s upcoming cocktail class, which not only features an expert masterclass with chef chef Max La Manna, but also features a live musical performance to enjoy at the end while you knock back your freshly made drinks. Tickets include a 20cl bottle of Martell as well as everything you’ll need to make the cocktails, as well as access to the live workshop and performance. Martell’s live classes have been super popular since the first lockdown, so you’ll want to snap up your tickets fast for December’s date.