Anyone who’s ever been to London (or has ever seen Love Actually) knows how strongly the capital city embraces the Christmas spirit. Now with the holiday season in full swing, here are some exciting upcoming events to check out if you’re ever in the city! From light-ups and night markets to muppet screenings, there’s sure to be something for everyone on this comprehensive list of wintery fun!
1. Ever After Garden
You’ve probably already seen the light-ups in Regent’s Street -let’s face it, its pretty basic- but have you ever been to the Ever After Garden? The first recommendation on our list is an illumination of 25,000 roses in Grosvenor Square, Mayfair! The Garden opened on the 1st of December and will run until the 23rd. It will be accessible from 12pm to 8pm.
This event was first started in 2019 by Anya Hindmarch and Camilla Morton, who had recently lost a friend. They wanted an inspiring way to commemorate those that have been lost.
It is completely free to visit! If you would like to dedicate a rose to a loved one, you can do so for a minimum of £10 right here. Proceeds will be donated to The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.
2. The Muppet Christmas Carol movie screening
On the 15th of December, the classic Christmas movie, the Muppet Christmas Carol, will be screened at St James’ Church, Islington. Taking place from 6:45pm to 10pm, the movie will start at 7:30pm. The event includes other fun-filled events such as a raffle, as well as a Christmas Jumper competition, all with prizes for the lucky winners (donated by Hidden City, Swing Patrol, Franca Manca and Sipsmith). Food and drinks include mince pies and mulled wine.
All proceeds will go to North London Cares’ winter programme that helps older people across Camden and Islington to stay connected during the colder months, an endeavour that’s been incredibly relevant since the start of the pandemic.
Buy your ticket for £18 here.
3. Christmas Carol Concert by Leukaemia UK
Nothing says Christmas like some carol singing! St Mary’s Church in Marylebone will be hosting a night of carols with Leukaemia UK on the 16th of December, from 6pm to 8:30pm. The concert will begin at 6:30pm. The night includes special performances from the One School of Performing Arts and City Academy’s Songbirds choir, as well as readings from celebrity guests including Dougray Scott Jonah Hauer-King and Alistair Petrie. There will also be plenty of refreshments and a raffle with festive prizes to be won!
The money raised will be funding Leukaemia UK, the UK’s leading leukaemia research charity.
Tickets are £15 per adult and £7.50 per child. Buy here.
4. Winter Concert for International Migrants Day
Another festive concert will be hosted by Together Productions for International Migrants Day on the 18th of December at St Luke’s West Holloway Church. From 5pm to 6pm, the night will feature The Mixed Up Chorus and the Sing for Freedom Choir, along with other special guests.
All donations will go towards the work of Together Productions, who bring together diverse communities through music and art. Their work includes marginalised groups who may be feeling displaced or facing mental health issues.
Book your ticket from £0 here.
Please make sure to have read the COVID-19 guidelines for each event before attending.
