London’s Top Festive Activities 2021
The festive season is well and truly upon us, and Christmas in London is one of my favourite times of year. London becomes a twinkling cityscape of lights and people walking by the river, comforted by the warmth of hot chocolate and mulled wine.
Whether you’re after spectacular Christmas lights or something more low-key, there’s a way for everyone to celebrate the holiday season in London. Here’s a quick roundup of the many things going on in the next month or so, to get you in the Christmas spirit.
Winter Light and Winter Market, Southbank
Image via https://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whats-on/art-exhibitions/jakob-kvist-dichroic-sphere
Dating back to 1942, Winter Light has grown from one animation show to several colourful instillations scattered around the Southbank Centre. Pick up something warm from the Winter Market and stroll through the surrounding area to enjoy these fantastic light sculptures. The market is also a great place to find unique stocking fillers and gifts as well as the Christmas market classics – bratwurst and eggnog.
Anicka Yi, Tate Modern
Image via instagram @tate
Perhaps less obviously festive, but Anicka Yi’s Installation ‘In Love With the World’ for the Tate Modern Hyundai Commission is not to be missed this winter. If you’re looking for an alternative place to catch up with friends over Christmas, head to the Turbine Hall to watch these wondrous aerobes float above. Yi’s work looks towards the future and how our ecosystems may change and evolve alongside technology - something to think about heading into the new year!
The Curling Club
Image via instagram @thecurlingclub
For those not escaping to the slopes this winter, the Curling Club offers the metropolitan solution. Experience a fast-form of curling set in an apres-ski atmosphere. Once you’ve given curling a go, there’s plenty more enjoyment to be had with their Alpine street food and winter themed cocktails - a perfect alternative to the usual Christmas office party.
Lightopia
Image via instgram @lightopiafestival
Lightopia makes it’s return to Crystal Palace this year with a show that is both extravagant and exciting. A wonderful activity for the whole family the instillations illuminate the park. Colourful lasers, water shows and luminescent dinosaurs promise to bring the history of the park to life.
Winter Garden, Flat Iron Square
Image via instagram @flatironsquareuk
Flat Iron’s Winter Garden is filled with twinkly lights, cosy blankets and outdoor heaters to satiate the Santa’s Grotto atmosphere you’re crazing this season. Festive drinks like the Gingerbread Old Fashioned and Salted Caramel Espresso Martini are accompanied by a fantastic range of live music, from brass brands to hip hop. No surprise their tables are filling up fast so make sure to book!
Natural History Museum Ice Rink
Image via @natural_history_museum
Ice rinks pop up all over the city during winter, but how can you beat skating with a view of the Natural History Museum. This will actually be the last year to skate in this setting as in 2022 they’ll be transforming this space into a wildlife hub. Get skating while you can!
We’d love to see how you’re celebrating the festive season this year! Where are you favourite spots to enjoy London’s Christmas lights? Let us on know on Instagram by tagging us at @lucylovesthis
