Things to do on Islay this Christmas

14th November 2019

Festive Things To Do On Islay

Islay is a truly magical Scottish island, and even more so at Christmas time. The streets and houses are lit with twinkling lights and all is merry and bright. Here, we’ve rounded up some of the best festive things to do on Islay. We wish you a very happy Christmas and Hogmanay!

Local Christmas Events

From Christmas Fayres and Carol Services to Ceilidhs and other celebrations, there are many local festive things to do on Islay. And visitors to the island are welcome to come along and celebrate with us. 

There’s live music, mostly by Islay musicians, on Sunday nights at 8.30pm at the Port Charlotte Hotel. From the 22nd until the 24th of November, Port Charlotte also hosts the 2019 Islay Sessions. This folk festival features some of Scotland’s finest traditional musicians.

Take a look at the Islay Event Calendar for some ideas.

  • Traditional cake wrapped in tartan ribbon at a Christmas Fayre
  • Girl in hat and scarf playing in the snow
  • Pizza surrounded by Christmas decorations

Festive Dining

Whether you’re having a romantic dinner, getting together with a few friends, or planning the office party, the festive season is a time to feast! Join us at Peatzeria Restaurant and enjoy our delicious Christmas menu.

And remember, if you would rather eat our food in your pyjamas whilst lying on your bed, that’s cool too. Take a look at our takeaway menu!

Warm up with a Whisky

At Peatzeria. we have a wide selection of whiskies to keep you warm this winter. Our island is famous for its peaty, smoky whiskies, made to warm the cockles of your heart. There are eight working distilleries here on Islay, many of which you can tour. What a great way to spend a winter morning!

  • Whisky bottle and glass in front of Christmas lights
  • A Christmas scene made with pizza and pizza ingredients
  • Close up shot of Christmas Tree with lights and gold baubles

Get Cosy at Tarbert House

If you’re looking for Islay accommodation for your stay this festive season, we still have some availability at Tarbert House in the heart of Bowmore. This cosy B&B is the perfect place to snuggle up when it’s cold outside.

Islay is a wonderful and relaxing island, and the perfect place to stay with family and friends over Christmas. Scenic walks, cosy fires, and don’t forget about delicious pizzas! Plus, when you stay at Tarbert House, you get 10% off here at Peatzeria.

  • Colourful fireworks against dark sky
  • A christmas tree made from pizza ingredients
  • A Christmas tree pizza

Celebrate Hogmanay

Hogmanay is the Scots word for our New Year celebrations and it’s one of the best festive things to do on Islay! There’s always festive cheer and celebrations from visitors and islanders alike. Come along to Bowmore Pier at midnight, as the bells of the Round Church and a spectacular fireworks display welcome in the year 2020. The perfect way to experience a traditional Scottish Hogmanay with friends old and new!