Celebrating Christmas in London, England

When you're in London over Christmas, there's no better way to take part in the Christmas spirit than enjoying a stroll in the downtown shopping districts, participating in some Christmas caroling, and finishing an evening with mince pies and mulled cider. London during the Christmas season is a mix of the whimsical, traditional, and modern cultures of the day with plenty of opportunities for shopping, attractions, and local events. Enjoy your Christmas in London by taking part in any and all of these popular events throughout December.

The Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree lighting ceremony marks the beginning of the Christmas season in London, and this year's festivities begin on December 7. Head over to the downtown district for this annual Norwegian tradition to lights up the 75 foot tree with over 500 lights. The Choir of St. Martin-in-the-Fields will accompany the Mayor to announce the lighting of the tree. Be sure to arrive before 5 p.m. to get the best views!

You won't want to miss out on the Great Christmas Pudding Race, a London classic that takes place at Covent Garden. The winner becomes the proud owner of the Pudding Trophy, but only after they've completed an obstacle course around the gardens dressed in Christmas costumes. The events starts at 10 a.m. and all funds raised go to a local charity. Now you don't have any excuses to pass up on Christmas pudding!

Equestrian enthusiasts won't forget to attend the International Showjumping competition on Hammersmith Road. Beginning on December 12, this event brings together an audience in the thousands and is also broadcast on BBC television.

The annual Frost Fair takes place on Dec. 15-17; it's a great choice to take in an historical tradition along with food, live music, shopping, and workshops. The Frost Fair honors the severe freezing of the River Thames during the early 16th century. The river hasn't frozen since, but the annual festivities include ice slides, entertainers, and ice sculptures galore. Be sure to stop by after 10 a.m. on all three days of the events.

Head over to the King's College Chapel in Cambridge on Christmas Eve for the nationwide broadcast of carols sung by the King' s College Choir. 'A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols' is a beautiful tradition you'll want to remember each year. On Chrristmas Day, be sure to tune into the Queen's Christmas Message in the afternoon.

December 26 is a national holiday in London, known as Boxing Day. It's the American equivalent of Black Friday, so be sure to plan your shopping expedition into downtown London for the best post-Christmas sales. Stock up on next year's gifts, buy some extra presents for yourself, or just peruse the endless lines of window displays on London's Oxford, Regent, and Bond streets!

Revel in the activities and events around London over Christmas this year. Whether you're celebrating alone, with friends, or with your family, there's always plenty to enjoy and take in. Have a Merry Christmas on the British Isles!