How long do the Christmas markets stay up in London?

Most London Christmas markets stay up from mid-November until just after New Year’s Day, typically closing around January 3rd–6th, 2026, though some, like the Southbank Centre, close on December 26th. Major attractions like Hyde Park Winter Wonderland operate until January 1st.

How long do Christmas markets run in London?

We recommend visiting the ones that are convenient to the other sites you plan to visit. For each market, we list the nearby places to go to help you with your planning. The Christmas markets open between early and mid-November and close between December 26 and January 7 (most Christmas markets stay open to January 4).

Do Christmas markets stay open after Christmas?

Yes, many Christmas markets stay open after Christmas, often until New Year's Eve or the first week of January, though some traditional ones close by December 23rd or 24th. Major cities like London, Edinburgh, Prague, and various French/German locations frequently run markets through the holiday period, sometimes rebranding as New Year's markets. It's essential to check specific market dates, as they vary widely. 

What time does the Christmas market close in Trafalgar Square?

Tie in a visit to the towering pine tree in Trafalgar Square with a browse of nearby Leicester Square's market. Each stall has seasonal treats, food and delicious drinks. The market is on from November 1 to January 4. Opening times: 10am-10pm.

How long are Christmas decorations up in London?

Most displays shine from early November through the first week of January, giving you plenty of time to plan your London Christmas lights night tour.

16 Tips I Wish I Knew Before Visiting European Christmas Markets

How long does Magic Kingdom keep Christmas decorations up?

The decorations in the parks and resorts typically remain up from the first week of January through the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, which starts on Jan. 8, 2026.

Does London still have Christmas lights in January?

When do London's Christmas lights end? The other option for crowd-swerving is to wait until early January, as most displays tend to stay lit for the first few nights of the New Year. We know that the Regent Street lights will be on until 4 January 2026. Others haven't confirmed an end date, but will be a similar time.

Where is the most Christmassy place in London?

For the ultimate Christmassy feel in London, head to Covent Garden for its giant tree and lights, Regent Street for its iconic angel lights, and Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park for a massive festive market and carnival; while Chelsea's Sloane Square offers charming local lights and markets, creating a wonderfully festive atmosphere.
 

What is the best Christmas market to go to in London?

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is the largest and most famous Christmas fair and market in London. There is a massive ice-skating rink, thrilling rides, several shows, Santa's grotto and the Ice Kingdom to name a few of the experiences.

What do Germans do on the 25th and 26th of December?

On December 25th (First Christmas Day) and 26th (Second Christmas Day, Zweiter Weihnachtstag), Germans enjoy official public holidays focused on quiet family time, large festive meals with traditional foods like roast goose or carp, exchanging gifts (which often happens on Christmas Eve), and visiting relatives, with most shops remaining closed as the celebration continues after the main gift-giving on Christmas Eve (Heiligabend).
 

Do Christmas markets continue after Christmas?

Some smaller markets continue after Christmas into January and are known as winter markets. These often begin as Advent markets and then extend their season, offering a festive winter atmosphere.

Does hyde park have a Christmas market?

Yes, Hyde Park hosts the massive annual Winter Wonderland, which features a large Christmas Market with numerous stalls selling crafts, food, and drinks, alongside rides, ice skating, and shows, running typically from mid-November to early January. It's London's major Christmas event, transforming the park into a festive destination with themed areas like a Scandinavian Market Square.
 

How much money do you need for Winter Wonderland?

For Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland, entry can be free (off-peak) or £5-£8.25+ (standard/peak), but you'll need extra money for attractions like rides, the Ice Kingdom (£9-£18), Bar Ice (£17-£18), food, drinks, and games, with many visitors budgeting £50-£100+ per person for a day out, depending on activities. Costs add up quickly with food, drinks, and rides, so pre-booking and choosing off-peak entry can save money. 

What should I wear to Winter Wonderland?

Layering is key

Wrap up warm with your jacket, hat and scarf when you're outdoors, and take them off to reveal your cosy knitwear and layered tee underneath when you're inside and need to cool off.

Can you just walk into Winter Wonderland London?

No, you cannot just walk into Winter Wonderland London anymore; timed entry tickets are mandatory for everyone, even babies, though Off-Peak entry can be free (plus a booking fee). You must book tickets in advance online to secure a specific entry time, as paying on arrival is risky, especially during busy Standard (from £5) or Peak (from £7.50+) periods, where time slots often sell out, making advance booking essential for guaranteed entry and better prices.
 

What is the most beautiful Christmas street in London?

What is the most Christmassy street in London? As London transforms over the festive period, you'll find Christmas cheer wherever you go. Head to Oxford Street to see some of the city's most dazzling Christmas lights, and don't forget to wander down nearby Carnaby Street for its cool displays.

What is the most Christmassy bar in London?

London's Most Christmassy Bar

Located at 10 Henrietta Street, step into the most gloriously over-the-top festive pop-up with Miracle Bar. Imagine a kitsch Christmas dream draped in tinsel-choked decor, fairly lights on steroids and retro ornaments - enough to make Santa blush this festive season!

Has it ever snowed on Christmas Day in London?

London has only seen snow or sleet on Christmas Day about 19 times since the 1840s (that's around 10 % odds in the long run). Widespread snow on the ground on Christmas Day (the classic Christmas-card look)? Even rarer. It's only happened 4 times since 1960 (4 white Christmases out of 65, that's about 6%).

Is Canary Wharf lights free?

Winter Lights is free to attend, no ticket or pre-booking required, just turn up and enjoy.

Where is the best walking route for Christmas lights in London?

A Fantastically Festive Walk Through London's Christmas Lights And Decorations

• Trafalgar Square Christmas tree. ...
• St James's Christmas tree. ...
• Regent Street Christmas lights. ...
• Fortnum & Mason at Christmas. ...
• Bond Street Christmas lights and windows. ...
• Annabel's in Berkeley Square. ...
• Oxford Street Christmas lights.