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Oxford Street Christmas lights 2021
Photograph: BBA Photography/Shutterstock.com

Christmas in London 2023

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in London. Here are the best ways to steep yourself in festive spirit

Alice Saville
Rosie Hewitson
Written by
Alice Saville
&
Rosie Hewitson
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Christmas in London is so magical that it makes the grim onset of winter (and corresponding heating bills) feel suddenly worthwhile. As December arrives, the city's streets begin to glow with sparkling Christmas lights and lavishly decorated Christmas trees, all doing their best to melt the heart of the most cynical Londoner. 

There's no need to stay indoors and hibernate under a blanket, either. Suddenly, the city's full of endless festive things to do. You can book a trip to a trad (or cheeky) pantomime, revisit your favourite Christmas films at special screenings, risk your ankles gliding around oh-so-pretty ice rinks and drink your fill of mulled wine at any number of Christmas knees-ups. Winter pop-ups will do their best to get you to try curling or drinking eggnog, Christmas markets flog stocking stuffers galore, and London's boutiques and shops have a permanent soundtrack of jolly Christmas songs. And if you need somewhere to stay? Check out London’s best Christmas hotels.

Our handy rundown of festive events for Christmas 2023 in London has everything you need to make your yuletide truly merry. And be sure to check back regularly as we continue to update the list with newly announced markets, pop-ups, parties and other festive things to do happening in London. 

RECOMMENDED: It’s never too early to start planning a spectacular New Year in London.

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