Plan Your Visit
14.11.2024 – 05.01.2024

5 free Christmas experiences in the City

Experience the Magic of Christmas in the City

From enchanting lights and magnificent Christmas trees to festive carols and family-friendly events, the City has plenty of free activities to brighten your holiday season. Gather friends, family, or colleagues, and embrace the festive spirit with illuminated installations, historic markets, and much more.

Discover magical Christmas Trees in the City

The City of London is brimming with picture-perfect spots for your festive photos! Explore our list of must-see Christmas trees and switch-on events at iconic locations throughout the City, creating the ideal Instagram backdrop for your holiday memories.

See the map

Follow the twinkling lights across the City of London

Stroll through the City and follow the whimsical light displays that fill the streets with colour and sparkle. Take in the beautiful sights as you enjoy a winter evening with loved ones, discovering festive illuminations that add a magical touch to the City’s historic landmarks.

See the map

Step into the festive spirit at the City’s Christmas Markets

Wander through charming outdoor markets at Paternoster Square and St. Paul’s Cathedral, where you’ll find unique gifts, holiday decorations, and delicious seasonal treats.

On select dates, discover pop-up markets offering one-of-a-kind treasures.

Don’t miss the festive atmosphere at Leadenhall Market, One New Change, and The Royal Exchange, adorned with Christmas trees and lights.

Read more

Craft Victorian-Style Christmas Decorations at Guildhall Art Gallery

Date: 14 December | Cost: Free (Booking Recommended)

Celebrate the season at Guildhall Art Gallery by creating beautiful Victorian-style Christmas decorations inspired by their 12-foot Christmas tree. This hands-on workshop is free to attend, with advance booking recommended. Stay tuned for more details on how to book your spot.

Find out more

Explore Fleet Street Quarter's Penguin Parade Sculpture Trail

Launch Date: 14 November 2024 | Cost: Free

Add some fun to your holiday with Fleet Street Quarter's penguin sculpture trail in partnership with WWF! Wander through the area and discover 12 uniquely designed penguin sculptures, each sharing interesting facts and quirky anecdotes via QR codes. A perfect, family-friendly outing that's free for all.

Find Out More

See the full Christmas in the City programme

Explore

Related Events

Christmas in the City
01.11.2024 – 05.01.2025

Christmas in the City

From enchanting Christmas markets, glorious carolling, and festive feasts, the City of London has something for everyone this season.
Explore Christmas Trees, Lights, and Festive Installations
01.11.2024 – 05.01.2025

Explore Christmas Trees, Lights, and Festive Installations

Wander through the City of London to find beautifully decorated Christmas trees, twinkling lights and festive installations at iconic locations.
Christmas Markets, Shopping and Festive Gifting
01.11.2024 – 02.01.2025

Christmas Markets, Shopping and Festive Gifting

From handcrafted gifts to luxury finds, here are some of the best Christmas markets, shopping experiences, and gifting spots in the City.
Festive Dining, Cocktails and Afternoon Teas
01.11.2024 – 05.01.2025

Festive Dining, Cocktails and Afternoon Teas

From panoramic afternoon teas and indulgent festive dinners to winter igloos on the roof terrace, there's a perfect festive dining experience for everyone in the City.
Festive Stay Offers
01.11.2024 – 05.01.2025

Festive Stay Offers

Enjoy the festivities stress-free at the City's finest hotels this Christmas.
Christmas and NYE Parties
14.11.2024 – 01.01.2025

Christmas and NYE Parties

Browse our selection of party ideas for the ultimate celebration with your friends or colleagues in the City of London.
10 festive activities to do with friends
18.11.2024 – 05.01.2025

10 festive activities to do with friends

Immerse yourself in a world of holiday cheer with this selection of festive experiences across the City of London.
Christmas Markets Paternoster Square and by St Paul’s
18.11.2024 – 24.12.2024

Christmas Markets Paternoster Square and by St Paul’s

Multiple locations
Wander through charming market areas full of food, drinks, unique gifts and treasures in Paternoster Square and by St Paul's Cathedral.
Christmas in the Crescent
19.11.2024 – 06.01.2025

Christmas in the Crescent

The Crescent, in front of Tower Suites - a Blue Orchid hotel
Join the festive spirit for Christmas in the Crescent. A magical atmosphere, with unique gifts, and lots of festive food and drinks to enjoy.
Find over 40 Christmas Carols & Concerts to attend
30.11.2024 – 05.01.2025

Find over 40 Christmas Carols & Concerts to attend

Get in the Christmas Spirit with Christmas Movie soundtracks, Carol services, festive family concerts and more.
Christmas Carols in City Churches
01.12.2024 – 05.01.2025

Christmas Carols in City Churches

Everyone is welcome to join carol services at the City churches. There's lunchtime and evening weekday carol services, most of which are free and don't require booking. Selected churches have Sunday advent services too.