Things to do in London on Christmas Eve
Here are our picks for things to do on Christmas Eve in London this year.
Last updated: 17th Nov 2022
Originally published: 15th Nov 2022
Christmas Eve can be a day where you find yourself in a bit of a bind, looking forward to Christmas whilst not being quite sure what to do until the big day comes. Well, if you're in London then there are plenty of options for you this year. Take a look at the list below to blow away any indecisiveness you have about getting out for Christmas Eve this year.
Lightopia London
Where: Crystal Palace Park
Lightopia is the ultimate festival of Christmas lights and it is taking place in Crystal Palace Park. You're invited in to view a wide range of impressive illuminations with pathways leading you to all sorts of displays. Some take the form of animals, there are trees covered in ornate decorations and Christmas character favourites.
Where: Theatre Royal Drury Lane, London
Frozen is one of Disney's most famous movies and the beloved tale was made into a theatre show not too long after its cinematic success. Here you can see the story unfold in a whole new way as you follow Elsa and hear all of those songs that made the soundtrack so successful.
Where: Coliseum, London
The Nutcracker is a Christmas classic story and at this special performance over 100 musicians and dancers will bring it to life. A beautiful set will be in the background as Tchaikovsky's memorable score is played live. Put on by the English National Ballet, it will be a memorable performance.
Stroll along the South Bank
Where: South Bank, London
London's South Bank is a hive activity over the Christmas period and we can't think of a better place to be on Christmas Eve to really make the most of the holiday spirit. There will be some beautiful Christmas lights on display as well as the Christmas markets that will serve you some festive treats.
Visit Prince Charles Cinema
Where: The Prince Charles Cinema, London
The Prince Charles Cinema is putting on Christmas films all day on Christmas Eve, so you can really get excited for Christmas day. It's A Wonderful Life, The Muppet Christmas Carol, Die Hard, Home Alone and more will all be shown to put you right in the Christmas spirit.
Tour the Christmas lights
Image credit: Karam Alani (Pexels)
The Christmas Lights in London are an event all in themselves and we can't think of a more beautiful way to spend Christmas Eve than to have a stroll through central London and take them all in. From Oxford Circus to Covent Garden and the West End, the city has some seriously impressive displays.
Charles Dickens Museum
Where: Charles Dickens Museum, London
Charles Dickes wrote A Christmas Carol, a story that pretty much everyone knows about. We can't think of a better time to visit the Charles Dickens Museum. You'll even be given a free mince park and mulled wine on entry as you see Dickens' house with its original fittings and furnishings.
Christmas Shopping
Image credit: Amelia Hallsworth
Now you may think we're insane to suggest shopping on Christmas Eve but we'd hope that the majority of your shopping would be done by then. This is more for stocking fillers, as a stroll down Oxford Street and into the shops could be where you find that last perfect Christmas gift.
Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.
