Prepare for a festive season of adventure in London! Our guide has all the exciting holiday events. From London regulars to holiday tourists, our guide unlocks the city's festive treasures for everyone.
One of the highlights of the season is the magnificent Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square, a symbol of holiday cheer that draws visitors from near and far. You can also experience the magic of Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, where visitors can enjoy a blend of rides, markets, and seasonal food. And the London Christmas Lights is something you definitely don't want to miss, as the city transforms into a dazzling display of twinkling lights. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around London
- Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
- Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square
- Kew Gardens Christmas Light Trail
- London Christmas Lights
- The Nutcracker by English National Ballet
- Somerset House Ice Rink
- A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic
- Hogwarts in the Snow at Warner Bros. Studio Tour
- The Lord Mayor's Show
- London Transport Museum Christmas Events
See these and even more events listed below!
London Holiday Light Displays
Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square
What to Expect:
A 50-60 year old Norwegian spruce decorated in traditional Norwegian fashion.
Description:
The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is a 50-60 year old Norwegian spruce, over 20 meters tall, selected from Oslo's forests and decorated in traditional Norwegian fashion with energy-efficient lights. It stands as a symbol of gratitude from Norway to Britain for support during World War II.
Where: London | More Info: Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square
London Christmas Lights
What to Expect:
Guided tour with professional guides and stops at major Royal London landmarks.
Description:
Explore central London's best Christmas lights and holiday decorations on a guided tour, featuring iconic landmarks and lesser-known neighborhood displays.
Where: London | More Info: London Christmas Lights
Kew Gardens Christmas Light Trail
What to Expect:
Illuminated botanical garden with seasonal sounds and festive food.
Description:
Kew Gardens Christmas Light Trail features a 3km illuminated trail with over a million twinkling lights, including giant flowers, cascading lights, and a fire garden. The event includes seasonal sounds, festive food, and a visit to Father Christmas.
Where: London | More Info: Kew Gardens Christmas Light Trail
Christmas Lights London by Night Bus Tour
What to Expect:
Live guided tour showcasing London's iconic landmarks and festive light displays.
Description:
Explore London's iconic landmarks and spectacular Christmas lights on a 90-minute open-top bus tour. Marvel at the 5,000 sustainable stars on Oxford Street, admire Regent Street's festive illuminations, and see the giant Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square. A live guide will share fascinating facts about London's history and landmarks as you soak in the city's dazzling Christmas displays.
Where: London | More Info: Christmas Lights London by Night Bus Tour
London Holiday Markets and Shopping
Spirit of Christmas Fair
What to Expect:
Unique shopping experience with a wide variety of high-quality, independent brands.
Description:
The Spirit of Christmas Fair is a premier shopping event featuring over 600 original, independent brands offering fashion, jewelry, Christmas decorations, toys, food, and drink. It includes complimentary event access to the Winter Art & Antiques Fair and The Luxury Travel Fair, free workshops, and all-day tapas with José Pizarro.
Where: London | More Info: Spirit of Christmas Fair
London Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
What to Expect:
Extensive array of festive activities and attractions.
Description:
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a comprehensive holiday event featuring an ice skating rink, carnival rides, circus shows, and a variety of food and drink options. The event includes attractions like the Magical Ice Kingdom and the Giant Observation Wheel, offering something for all ages.
Where: London | More Info: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
The Nutcracker by English National Ballet
What to Expect:
Elaborate sets and costumes in a classic Christmas ballet.
Description:
English National Ballet's The Nutcracker is a classic Christmas production featuring elaborate sets and costumes, bringing the timeless tale to life with world-class ballet.
Where: London | More Info: The Nutcracker by English National Ballet
A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic
What to Expect:
Traditional theatrical interpretation of a holiday classic.
Description:
A classic adaptation of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, presented at The Old Vic with a focus on storytelling and character development.
Where: London | More Info: A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic
The Lord Mayor's Show
What to Expect:
Historic civic procession with diverse participants and floats.
Description:
The Lord Mayor's Show is an annual event in the City of London, celebrating the new Lord Mayor with a three-mile long procession featuring over 7,000 participants, 200 horses, and 150 floats. The event includes military bands, community groups, charities, and modern businesses, showcasing the city's diversity and history.
Where: London | More Info: The Lord Mayor's Show
EFG London Jazz Festival
What to Expect:
World-class jazz performances showcasing diverse talent.
Description:
The EFG London Jazz Festival is a premier event celebrating jazz music with a diverse lineup of international and UK artists, featuring innovative arrangements and reinterpretations of traditional and contemporary jazz.
Where: London | More Info: EFG London Jazz Festival
Ideal Home Show Christmas
What to Expect:
Interactive workshops and live cooking demos.
Description:
The Ideal Home Show Christmas is an event featuring hundreds of independent retailers and household names, offering a treasure trove of Christmas inspiration with sparkling interiors, exquisite gifts, and festive feasting.
Where: London | More Info: Ideal Home Show Christmas
Cake and Bake Show London
What to Expect:
Interactive baking demonstrations and hands-on masterclasses.
Description:
The Cake & Bake Show London is a premier baking event featuring live demos, masterclasses, and a showcase of exquisite cakes and baking products. Attendees can watch celebrity bakers, learn new skills, and shop from top brands.
Where: London | More Info: Cake and Bake Show London
London Other Holiday Activities
Somerset House Ice Rink
What to Expect:
Ice skating in a historic courtyard with gourmet dining and live music.
Description:
Skate at Somerset House offers an unparalleled ice skating experience in London's iconic courtyard, surrounded by Georgian architecture and a 40-foot Christmas tree. Enjoy gourmet dining, live music, and festive atmosphere.
Where: London | More Info: Somerset House Ice Rink
London Transport Museum Christmas Events
What to Expect:
Immersive transport history experience with bespoke menus.
Description:
Celebrate the holiday season at the London Transport Museum, where guests can enjoy traditional dinners and Yuletide drink receptions amidst iconic Routemasters. Explore two floors of transport history, including the first Metropolitan Line carriage and Elizabeth Line driver experience. Personalize your event with a stamper trail, immersing guests in rich London transport history.
Where: London | More Info: London Transport Museum Christmas Events
Hogwarts in the Snow at Warner Bros. Studio Tour
What to Expect:
Immersive holiday celebration with detailed set decorations and festive atmosphere.
Description:
Explore iconic Harry Potter sets transformed into a Christmas spectacle with snow-covered Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and Hogwarts Castle.
Where: London | More Info: Hogwarts in the Snow at Warner Bros. Studio Tour
Diwali On The Square
What to Expect:
Cultural performances and activities celebrating the festival of lights.
Description:
Diwali On The Square is a vibrant celebration in Trafalgar Square featuring music, dance, workshops, and food, catering to the whole family.
Where: London | More Info: Diwali On The Square
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- St. Thomas (15 miles)
- Woodstock (27 miles)
- Stratford (30 miles)
- Norfolk County (44 miles)