This is your guide to highlight London happenings during the holidays. Whether you're a longtime Londoner or visiting London around Christmas, we hope this guide helps you out.
London has some great stuff to do during the holidays. Highlights include the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park and the Christmas markets throughout the city. Some of the more unique Christmas events in London are the ice skating at Somerset House, the Christmas lights on Oxford Street, and the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree.
This list is continually updated throughout the 2024 holiday season. Please email us for suggestions or corrections.
London Holiday Light Displays
Experience the magic of London's holiday light displays. See our complete lights guide for detailed information about each display.
London Tree Lighting
The official city tree lighting features live entertainment, food vendors, and is family-friendly, typically held in a central public square with festive activities.
London Botanical Garden Light Show
Kew Gardens hosts a spectacular light trail with illuminated tunnels, sculptures, live entertainment, and photo opportunities, suitable for families and evening visits.
London Holiday Light Festival
Major London light festivals offer dazzling displays, live entertainment, and seasonal refreshments in family-friendly outdoor settings, often requiring advance tickets.
London Holiday Markets and Shopping
Discover the best holiday markets and shopping experiences in London. Browse our detailed markets guide for complete listings and shopping tips.
Winter Wonderland
Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, over 100 festive stalls, circus shows, live entertainment, and a Bavarian village, open daily from mid-November.
Trafalgar Square Christmas Market
This market showcases Norway's gifted tree, local crafts, street food, and photo opportunities with the National Gallery backdrop, running from early November.
Southbank Centre Winter Market
Located along the Thames, the market offers river views, alpine huts, local crafts, and live music, ideal for relaxed browsing and festive food.
London Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Enjoy world-class performances and entertainment this holiday season.
English National Ballet Nutcracker
Performed by over 100 professional dancers, this holiday classic is staged in a grand London venue and is a seasonal highlight for ballet lovers.
Royal Ballet Nutcracker
The Royal Ballet presents a world-class Nutcracker in an iconic venue, featuring professional dancers and traditional festive choreography.
Little Bulb Nutcracker
Little Bulb's Nutcracker offers a unique, creative, and interactive family-friendly performance with imaginative design elements.
Other London Holiday Fun
Discover unique seasonal experiences and attractions throughout London.
Winter Wonderland Ice Rink
Large ice rink with festive setting, holiday entertainment, and beautiful location in Hyde Park.
Rockefeller Rink
Central location with holiday atmosphere, professional rink, family-friendly, and skate rentals available.
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Official ceremony with tree lighting, live performances, and community event at a historic London venue.
Resources
Helpful information and links for planning your holiday season in London.