The IRN-BRU Carnival promises more than 75 rides, games, and family-friendly attractions at Glasgow’s SEC from December 19 to January 11.
Marking its 106th year, the 2025 edition is set to be “its greatest show to date.”
Margaret Cowan, group operations manager for the IRN-BRU Carnival, said: “We’re so excited to be back for the biggest Carnival yet this year with over 75+ rides and attractions.
A young visitor celebrates winning a prize at one of the IRN-BRU Carnival’s classic fairground games. (Image: Jeff Holmes JSHPIX/)
“There’s fun for all the family and a great line-up of themed days, musicians and extra activities.
“The Carnival is fully indoors and can be enjoyed whatever the weather.
“Running until early January, we can’t wait to welcome families across the festive season.”
The IRN-BRU Can Man cuts the ribbon to mark the return of Europe’s largest indoor funfair. (Image: Jeff Holmes JSHPIX)
Visitors can look forward to traditional favourites such as dodgems, waltzers, and fairground games, all in a weatherproof indoor setting.
A new digital ticketing system has been introduced this year, offering a more convenient and flexible experience.
Standard tickets start at £14 and include five vouchers to use on rides, games, stalls, or inflatable play.
An upgrade to 10 vouchers is available for £20.
Theatre School of Scotland performers take part in festive family entertainment at the IRN-BRU Carnival. (Image: Jeff Holmes JSHPIX/)
Discounted tickets are offered for groups, concessions, and Young Scot Card holders.
Children under three go free.
The Cinderella panto cast theatre School of Scotland Cinderella at SEC. (Image: Jeff Holmes JSHPIX/)
For those arriving later in the day, a late entry ticket is available at a reduced price.
Vouchers can be distributed among your group using the See Tickets digital wallet app, simplifying entry and eliminating the need to queue on arrival.
The Carnival Entertainment Zone will feature live music, themed days, and special attractions such as appearances by the IRN-BRU Can Man, performances by Maria McAveety and Lori, and meet-and-greet opportunities with K-Pop Demon Hunters.
Other activities include a treasure hunt and special theme days like Carnival Christmas Jumper Day on December 24 and the popular Princess and Superhero Days on December 27 and January 4.
Autism-friendly sessions will return on December 28 from 11am to 2pm and on January 5 from 4pm to 9pm.
During these sessions, main hall lights will remain on, music will be lowered or turned off, and rides will run at slower speeds where possible.
Quiet areas will also be provided.
Cinderella pantomime stars entertain crowds during a live performance at the Carnival Entertainment Zone. (Image: Jeff Holmes JSHPIX/)
For fans of the iconic Scottish drink, a new IRN-BRU-themed menu will be available at the SEC’s Clydebuilt venue.
From December 19 until January 11, the menu will include Pakora, Cheesecake and BRU-flavoured Mr Whippy Soft-serve Ice Cream (served within the hall).
The IRN-BRU Carnival has been a festive staple in Glasgow for more than a century, entertaining generations of families.
Its longevity and continued popularity reflect its ability to evolve and offer something new each year while retaining classic attractions.
By taking the event fully indoors, organisers ensure that visitors can enjoy the experience regardless of Scotland’s unpredictable winter weather.
The addition of extra entertainment, accessibility options, and themed menu items further enhances the appeal for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
The Carnival is closed on Christmas Day but remains open throughout the rest of the holiday season.
Tickets can be purchased online, with options available to suit families, groups, and individuals with additional needs.
The return of the IRN-BRU Carnival promises a festive experience filled with nostalgia, excitement, and fun for the whole family.
With more rides, games, and entertainment than ever before, 2025’s event is set to deliver “the greatest show to date.”
Ms Cowan said: “We can’t wait to welcome families across the festive season.”
Tickets are available now at the IRN-BRU Carnivals website.
