Christmas 2022: A full guide to the festive season in Liverpool - from Christmas markets to the Alpine Village

It is officially the most wonderful time of the year! The Liverpool city region is full of sparkle and, let's face it, this year, more than ever, we could do with a shimmer of joy in our lives. So whether you're looking for something for the whole family or a night out with mates, we take a look at what is going on across Liverpool over the festive period.

The centrepiece of Liverpool city centre is the traditional Christmas tree at Church Street. Stretching from the Waterfront to William Brown Street, taking in the main shopping streets of the city centre, Liverpool BID Company funds the festive decorative display each year. As well as decorations, the city centre will see plenty of joyful activity, including a performance-based celebration. That runs right through December.

The Christmas market sees dozens of festive cabins located on St George's plateau and along William Brown Street. Expect festive food offerings, gifts, decorations, art, crafts and jewellery. There's also a mix of bars serving festive drinks, with local performers providing entertainment. The big wheel, snow slide and Santa Land rides have returned to add to the family fun. The market's last day is Christmas Eve.

Transforming into a winter wonderland, Liverpool ONE's ski holiday-inspired Liverpool Alpine Village has returned to Chavasse Park. From karaoke hüttes, curling and shuffle boarding to prosecco pong and even wreath making. The retail and leisure destination also has a brand new Christmas tree this year, alongside its many other neon installations! That is on until Saturday 31st December.

A new route and light installations await festive visitors to Delamere Forest this winter. The family-friendly trail features the Christmas Cathedral, enabling visitors to walk through a tunnel of more than 10,000 pea lights. Independent street food vendors and traditional fairground rides are also on offer. The illuminated trail is designed for visitors of all ages and is accessible for all to enjoy. You can catch that until Friday 30th December.

Enchanted at Knowsley Safari is an animal-themed evening light trail. Over 30 light-up animals throughout the Foot Safari, including deer, giraffes, zebra, penguins, and flamingos, as seasonal music plays. There'll also be the chance to meet up with the Big Man himself, with a Santa Experience. That's on until Friday 30th December.

Now, if it's a trip to the theatre that gets you in the festive spirit, you are absolutely spoilt for choice! Epstein Theatre audiences could be in for a tasty treat that's 'just right' this Christmastime with their family pantomime Goldilocks And The Three Bears. Coronation Street actor Kimberly Hart-Simpson is swapping the cobbles for a starring role in St Helens Theatre Royal's Christmas pantomime, Cinderella. A retelling of the Dickens classic A Christmas Carol is coming to Shakespeare North Playhouse. Finally, Liverpool's Royal Court yuletide offering is back, and this year it's Scouse Jack and the Beanstalk, this show is just for the grown ups, so leave the kids at home for that one.

With all that going on, you will certainly not be short of things to keep you entertained this festive season in Liverpool.