10 things to do in Dundee during Twixmas
- Andrew Batchelor
- 3 hours ago
- 3 min read

The days between Christmas and New Year - often dubbed Twixmas - are a strange but brilliant time in Dundee.
The pressure is off, the city slows down slightly, and there’s finally time to head out without rushing from one commitment to the next.
So if you’re looking to escape the house, entertain visiting family, catch a show or make the most of what’s still on, there’s plenty happening across the city during that in-between window.
Visit the Christmas Village while you can!
Twixmas is your last chance to catch Dundee’s Christmas Village before it packs away for another year. City Square stays lively in the days after Christmas, with food stalls, hot drinks and fairground attractions offering one final dose of festive atmosphere before Hogmanay takes over.
Enjoy a winter walk at Dundee’s waterfront
The Dundee Waterfront is often at its calmest during Twixmas. With fewer crowds and crisp winter air, it’s an ideal time for a relaxed stroll past the V&A Dundee, along Riverside Drive and towards City Quay, especially if you’re keen to get some fresh air after Christmas Day.
Go Boxing Day shopping
Boxing Day sales are a Twixmas tradition, and Dundee’s city centre quickly comes back to life as shops reopen. The Overgate, Wellgate and surrounding streets are perfect for bargain hunting, browsing and grabbing a coffee while soaking up the post-Christmas buzz.
Catch Jack and the Beanstalk at the Dundee Rep before it closes
Twixmas is peak pantomime season, and Dundee Rep’s Jack and the Beanstalk runs through to the end of December. It’s one of the final chances to catch the show, making it a popular choice for families during the festive break.
Experience live ice hockey at Dundee Ice Arena
Twixmas brings big sporting nights to the city with live ice hockey at the Dundee Ice Arena. Dundee Stars face Glasgow Clan on 27 December at 7pm, followed by a derby clash against Fife Flyers on 30 December at 7.30pm. Expect fast-paced action and a buzzing atmosphere.
Take things a bit slower at the McManus
Twixmas is one of the best times to explore the McManus Art Gallery & Museum. With fewer visitors than usual, it’s a chance to properly take in the exhibitions, learn more about Dundee’s history and enjoy a relaxed afternoon indoors.
Take a trip to Broughty Ferry for a day out
A short journey from the city centre, Broughty Ferry feels especially atmospheric at this time of year. A walk along the beach, past the castle and through the high street offers sea air, independent shops and plenty of cosy spots to warm up afterwards.
Go bowling at Tenpin or Hollywood Bowl
Bowling is a classic Twixmas activity, especially when you’re looking to get everyone out of the house without too much planning. Whether it’s a few competitive frames at Tenpin Dundee or a more casual game at Hollywood Bowl Dundee, it’s an easy win for families, friends and mixed-age groups, with food, drinks and arcade games often on hand too.
Visit Dundee’s waterfront museums
Twixmas is an ideal time to explore Dundee’s waterfront museums at a more relaxed pace. From the design-led galleries of V&A Dundee to the historic decks of the RRS Discovery at Discovery Point, it’s an easy way to spend a few hours indoors
Meet family and/or friends for long lunches
The days between Christmas and New Year are made for catching up. Dundee’s pubs, bars and restaurants provide the perfect backdrop for long lunches, relaxed drinks and unhurried conversations with people you didn’t quite manage to see on Christmas Day.
Twixmas in Dundee offers a little bit of everything. From festive final days in City Square to live sport, shopping and culture, it’s the perfect chance to enjoy the city while things are just that bit quieter - and to make the most of those in-between days before the calendar turns again.






