Hundreds of people headed out into Liverpool city centre on Saturday to enjoy the last weekend before Christmas.
Church Street and Liverpool ONE were filled with Christmas shoppers buying last minute presents ahead of the big day.
On Matthew Street, pub-goers posed in Christmas jumpers and Santa hats as they went out for drinks with friends and family.
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The city's Christmas markets by St George's Hall and the neighbouring St John's Gardens also had a lively atmosphere as people tucked into street food and mulled wine.
Many people were keen to make the most of the festivities following the strict coronavirus restrictions that were in place over the Christmas period last year.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a new set of rules on December 8 to try and help combat the rapid spread of the Omicron variant of coronavirus.
The Prime Minister's stricter rules are a part of the government's 'Plan B' which confirmed the introduction of vaccine passports and a new work from home policy.
Liverpool restaurant owners have reported people cancelling Christmas bookings following the announcement earlier this month.
And with reports of further restrictions being on the horizon, we headed out into the city centre to see how the last weekend before Christmas compares to previous years.
Friends Michelle, 49, and Hayley, 39, were out in the city centre on Saturday having drinks and a pre-Christmas meal.
Hayley told the ECHO: "I think it's pretty much the same as most Christmases, it's busy and vibrant.
"Last year wasn't good with the covid situation but I think it's getting more normal for people.
"We obviously still take precautions like wearing a mask and using hand gel. We're trying to do everything we can and if you don't [go out] you're not living are you?"
She added: "I must say coming over on the bus earlier a lot of people were talking about having tested before they came out, same as us, so everyone is taking precautions so they can have a lovely Christmas."
Michelle and Hayley said they are going to take a covid test tomorrow to ensure they don't have the virus.
Michelle added: "I think people are getting out while they can because they think it's going to go into another lockdown."
A man, who did not not want to be named, was visiting Liverpool from Wales for the weekend with his girlfriend.
He described the atmosphere in the city centre as "pretty busy" and "lively" on Saturday with people out enjoying themselves.
He said: "As long as we're not in close proximity to people we're not worried, we still keep our distance.
"I don't think we should be locked down again it's pushing against our own free will."
Sebastian, 42, was out doing some Christmas shopping in the city centre on Saturday.
He told the ECHO: "We try to take care of ourselves and do our best to wear a face mask and use hand gel, we're already double jabbed.
"I think if they do [impose a lockdown] it is what is it, there's not much we can do. I'm just hoping it's not as strong as before."
