London Weekend Break

Christmas attracions and events

London is a great place to visit at any time of the year, but during the Christmas period the city takes on a special magic and, furthermore, Christmas starts early in London.

Lights

London has a massive Christmas lights display with the majority of these being turned on in the middle of November. The most intense displays are found in and around the areas of Oxford Street, Bond Street, Covent Garden, Carnaby Street and Marylebone High Street, however the lights are present everywhere and are switched on in the latter part of the afternoon.

Other Christmas attractions include special illuminations at many of the city's major sightseeing hot spots and, in anticipation of additional Christmas visitors, transportation to and within the city is supplemented.

Markets

This time of year also sees a number of specialist themed Christmas markets based in numerous locations around the city. Some of these markets have become regular fixtures on the Christmas calendar whilst others vary from year to year. They include the Chocolate festival (in 2009 running over the second weekend of the month), the Tower Bridge Christmas Market (which takes its theme from Northern Europe), the popular German Christmas Market (that runs from 21 November 2009 to 3 January 2010) and the Cologne Christmas Market (20 November to 23 December 2009) that features a collection of purpose built chalets.

Pantomime

Another popular event at this time of year is the traditional pantomime and London has a number of well known theatre venues presenting all of the most well known panto stories. These London theatres also attract the big names from the acting world plus a number of reality celebrities ensuring that you will always have a star studded cast of players. Popular pantomime shows for 2009 include the ever fashionable Aladdin and Cinderella.

Carol singing

The winter and Christmas period see many musical events and shows from carol singing in Trafalgar Square to the more austere performances at St. Paul's Cathedral. A number of theatres and public venues will also feature carol singing performances by groups and choirs.

Shopping

Shopping is always a highlight of London, but over recent years many stores have started their New Year sales early to capitalise on the influx of Christmas visitors. Those visiting London on Xmas Eve may find more than one or two bargains up for grabs.

Winter Wonderland

The Winter Wonderland event takes place at Hyde Park and is the biggest outdoor Christmas attraction of the season.

Winter Wonderland features numerous things to see and do and is intended for the entire family. It has the biggest ice rink in London, a Santa's grotto, a Christmas market, a fun fair and many other exciting ways to spend a few hours. There are food stalls, cafes and in 2009 the addition of Zippos circus with its own heated big top. Visitors to this event need to buy tickets that vary in price from £4.50 upwards. The event runs from 21 November 2009 to 3 January 2010.