A POPULAR shopping centre opened up their annual Christmas market over the weekend.

The Glasgow Fort welcomed festive stalls such as a German-style swing grill, personalised Christmas decorations, fairground rides and a firepit which organisers say make for a perfect family day out. It marks the beginning of the centre's festive celebrations throughout December.

Choirs will also be performing in the run up to the big day on Saturday November 27 and Sunday 28 November as well as Saturday December 11, performing Christmas favourites which shoppers are encouraged to join in with.

Glasgow Times:

The big man himself, Santa, will also be making an appearance starting on Saturday, December 4. Along with his chief Elf, Twinkle, Mr Claus will be greeting shoppers, singing Christmas tunes and listening to Christmas wishes. 

The Fort has also announced an extension to Christmas shopping hours as well as a fundraising drive for local initiatives such as Glasgow's Spirit of Christmas.

Phil Goodman, centre director at Glasgow Fort, said: “Christmas was a difficult time for many last year, so we want to do what we can to help make this year extra special. We’re excited to have a range of activities and festive characters to help visitors get into the Christmas spirit.”

Glasgow Times:

Glasgow Fort is open from 9am – 10pm on weekdays, 9am – 8pm on Saturdays and 10am – 7pm on Sundays. There will be special extended opening hours from 9am-midnight from 20th – 23rd December. Free parking is available as usual and shoppers are being encouraged to visit outside of peak times if they can, with quieter times usually before 11am on weekdays.